How to create an impressive professional profile

Did you know that over 80% of job seekers use social media in their job search and a whopping 60% of employers use social networking sites to research potential job candidates. This confirms our belief that it’s crucial to make sure you have a professional profile if you are applying for a new job. Most recruiters will check out a candidate’s social media profile to find out “what they are really like in their personal life” and if they see something they don’t like, you might not even get as far as the interview stage!

So what do you need to do to your profile to make sure you are giving out the right message?

• Pick a good profile picture. If it’s a business related site rather than a social one, try to go for a more professional headshot style profile photo. And make sure it’s a current one so it’s a true reflection of what you actually look like!

• Create a professional and engaging headline and summary. This could include where you are currently working, what your key skills are or what work you are looking out for. Try to add a bit of personality so that your audience connect and engage with you.

• Location is key. Recruiters will want to know where you are based. There’s no point in considering you for a job in Manchester if you are based in Birmingham! Remember to add this information to help recruiters see where you are.

• Make it easy for a potential recruiter to contact you. Consider adding a personal email address or a mobile contact number. The easier it is to get hold of you the better chance you have of getting a call!

• Show examples of your work or add photographs and posts about any business related / networking events you attend. This is to give your audience a better understanding of what work you can do and where your interests lie.

• Add some testimonials. This is particularly important for your business related sites. Ask colleagues, clients or acquaintances to write a couple of sentences which you could add to your profile. It really does make a difference to help you stand out.

• Keep it professional. That means no swearing, drunken photos or posts you may regret at a later date. If you are unsure you want any potential new bosses checking out your social media profiles then change your privacy settings.

• Keep it updated and don’t neglect it. You need to be continuously updating your professional profile to ensure it’s current and relevant. If you attend some training or get involved in an exciting project make sure you are telling people about it.

Do you need any help with your next career move? We specialise in finding Northern talent for Northern businesses and are currently recruiting for positions in manufacturing, engineering and office support. Our offices are based in Leeds, we would love the opportunity to help you with any queries you might have – drop in for a cuppa!