For job seekers, having a LinkedIn profile is critical. Often when a hiring manager or HR representative is evaluating a candidate, the second place they look (after the resume) is their LinkedIn profile. But, is this true for all types of positions, including positions in allied health or trade-based positions? The answer: Yes! Our career services team created this list of LinkedIn tips that can help set you apart, as well as an overview of how LinkedIn can benefit those searching for jobs in allied health and trade fields.
Importance of Your LinkedIn Profile
As important as nailing your resume is, it can only tell potential employers so much about who you are and what you are passionate about. Many employers are now turning to LinkedIn and other forms of social media to learn more about potential hires whose resumes interest them before deciding who to invite to an interview.
Keeping your Facebook and Twitter profiles private is often the best course of action, and the opposite is true when it comes to LinkedIn. Do trade industry workers need LinkedIn profiles? LinkedIn profiles for job seekers in the trade industry can be used to connect with anyone and everyone in your field, search for positions that interest you, and give potential employers a way to see who you are as a person instead of what you look like on paper.
LinkedIn Tips When You’re Looking for a Job in the Trades or Allied Health
No matter what field you’re searching for a position in, having a professional LinkedIn profile provides information beyond your resume that can increase potential employers’ interest in inviting you to an interview. Here are five helpful tips for creating a profile that portrays you in the best possible light!
Tip #1: Highlight Your Accomplishments
If you’re searching for a new position in an allied health or trade field, your potential employers will want to know about any special qualifications you have that set you apart from other applicants. Many of these positions involve a two-year degree or similar certification that identifies your educational qualifications, and you can also list any relevant volunteer experience, internships or apprenticeships, or other employment histories that show potential employers your passion for your field.
Tip #2: Choose a Professional Photo
Employers want to know that you take professionalism seriously, and a quick glance at your LinkedIn profile picture provides insight into your attention to detail and understanding of what is appropriate in your field. Select a high-resolution photo that includes professional attire, good lighting, and a simple and non-distracting background. Many of today’s flagship phones are capable of taking high-resolution photos that will work well for LinkedIn, and it can also be worthwhile to have a professional photo taken.
Tip #3: Respond to Messages and Follow Requests
Being active on LinkedIn shows that you are serious about finding a position that is a good fit for you. Responding to messages and follow requests in a timely manner exhibits your dependability and punctuality, and accepting as many requests as possible can help you find new opportunities down the road. Even if you don’t know someone or are not interested in a particular position, accepting the request anyway or sending a simple “no thank you” response to a message can help you keep doors open that may benefit you as you advance in your career.
Tip #4: Use Your Summary to Your Advantage
Your summary should be more than a list of items that can be found elsewhere in your profile–or, worse yet, left blank. Use this section to tell a story that is both concise and captures your personality while sharing your journey in your field.
Tip #5: Update Your Profile Regularly
Adding new details to your LinkedIn profile regularly is a must when it comes to showing potential employers the most complete picture of your qualifications. Be sure to update your profile whenever you change jobs, acquire new responsibilities at your current position, learn a new program or other skill that is relevant to your field, or complete a new degree or certification to help you present the best version of yourself to potential employers.
Your LinkedIn profile is a crucial tool when you are searching for a new position, including in the allied health and trade fields. Having a positive online presence is a must in the 21st century, and LinkedIn is the first place many employers go to learn more about a candidate before meeting in person. Our Career Services team is here every step of the way, helping you to become a marketable job candidate—starting with this list of LinkedIn tips! Build relationships through externships and projects designed by career coaches. Hone soft skills to become the best candidate you can be. And, explore career opportunities during and after school.
After using these tips for LinkedIn profiles, Southern Careers Institute offers 20 career-focused programs preparing students to take 40 industry-preferred certification exams at our eight campuses or online. Learn more about starting your career when you request more info today.
This article was published on: 08/4/21 12:05 AM
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