International Student Guide: Curating the Ideal LinkedIn Profile (Intermediate)
Hey LinkedIn champions! Making it to the intermediate stage means you're among the top 50 per cent of users. That's like earning a spot on the podium in a professional marathon!
![LinkedIn spelled out in scrabble letters](/home/media/linkedin-scrabble.jpg)
You're not just running the race; you're leading the pack, setting the pace for others to follow. So, pat yourselves on the back—you're the MVPs of this digital arena! Now, let's channel that winning spirit and take your LinkedIn game to the next level.
Now, let's talk about strategy. As you embark on this next phase, focus on boosting your visibility, attracting more views, and engaging meaningfully with your network. Optimise your profile to stand out, craft compelling content that resonates with your audience, and expand your network strategically.
By implementing these tactics, you'll not only increase your profile views but also solidify your presence as a credible and influential player on LinkedIn. So, let's roll up our sleeves and unlock the next level of success on this dynamic professional platform!
I have used my profile as a good example: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madhuryaj/
Top 5 Tips to Expand and Optimise Your Profile
1. Expand Your Network
- Start Close, Expand Outward: Begin by connecting with current team members, classmates, and acquaintances. Gradually expand your network by reaching out to managers or talent acquisition teams in your city or country. These connections can introduce you to new opportunities and expand your professional horizons.
- Utilise LinkedIn Suggestions: As you connect with individuals, LinkedIn's algorithm begins suggesting similar profiles based on your demographics and profile details. Take advantage of these suggestions to further broaden your network. Connecting with suggested profiles can lead to new connections and potential opportunities.
- Engage Proactively: Don't wait for others to connect with you. Take the initiative to send connection requests and personalise your messages to foster meaningful connections. Engaging proactively can help you build a diverse network that opens doors to a wide range of opportunities.
2. Join Groups/Pages
- Expand Your Knowledge: Engage with like-minded professionals in LinkedIn groups related to your industry or interests to gain valuable insights, industry updates, and best practices.
- Networking Opportunities: These groups offer networking opportunities beyond your immediate circle, connecting you with professionals who share similar interests or are part of the same industry.
- Stay Informed: By joining relevant groups or pages, such as Queen's University Belfast or Queen's Business, you can stay updated on events, programmes, and opportunities specific to your university or field of study, enhancing your overall experience and network.
3. Seek Recommendations
- Enhance Credibility: Requesting recommendations from colleagues or supervisors can significantly boost your credibility on LinkedIn. These testimonials showcase your skills, work ethic, and professionalism, providing potential employers with valuable insights into your capabilities.
- Highlight Teamwork Skills: Recommendations serve as tangible evidence of your teamwork and collaboration abilities. They demonstrate how you've contributed to projects and interacted with peers, highlighting your strengths in working effectively within a team environment.
4. Optimise Your Profile
Fine-tune your profile with industry-relevant keywords for better search visibility. Convert descriptive phrases into strategic keywords to assist LinkedIn's algorithms in matching you with relevant job opportunities.
Example:
- Add the open to work banner on the profile.
- How to check the top keywords your profile is found for in LinkedIn search results:
- Step 1: Go to your profile
- Step 2: Click on the Search Appearance
- Step 3: Scroll down the page that comes in front and you'll find a heading - '๐๐จ๐ฉ ๐ค๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐ฐ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ'
This will keep changing every week. So to keep a track of it, visit this page option and make changes.
5. Stay Active
- Consistent Profile Updates: Regularly update your LinkedIn profile with new achievements, experiences, and skills to maintain relevance and demonstrate ongoing professional growth.
- Engage with Content: Like, comment, and share relevant posts to showcase your industry knowledge, engage with your network, and build meaningful relationships with peers and potential employers.
Additional Tip: Personalise Connection Requests: When sending connection requests, include a personalised message to establish rapport and increase the likelihood of acceptance.
Find out more
International Student Guide: Curating the Ideal LinkedIn Profile (Beginner)
Careers, Employability and Skills
Study MSc Business Analytics at Queen's
Madhurya JagadeeshMSc Business Analytics | Postgraduate Student | IndiaI am a dedicated Business and Data Analyst with a strong academic foundation and a history in various analytical roles. My educational journey includes a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Queen's University Belfast and a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Science & Engineering. |
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