Double Edge PR | Is LinkedIn the new CV?
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Is LinkedIn the new CV?

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20 May Is LinkedIn the new CV?

Posted at 02:11h in Events, Public Relations by user
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With 350+ million users in over 200 countries, it’s fair to say that LinkedIn has become a platform for those seeking a new job, wishing to change their current employment or for an employer to find appropriate candidates to fill a vacancy.

For many professionals, resumes (or CVs) are a static document that is dusted off and updated only when they begin a new job search. Whereas LinkedIn profiles are dynamic, more easily updated in real time and readily accessible to potential employers.

Nonetheless, great resumes and LinkedIn profiles share a lot in common, including a focus on accomplishments, a powerful summary and keywords that resonate with your audience. Though, many LinkedIn users have trouble setting up and maintaining an up-to-date profile.

It’s important to keep your profile updated, relevant and if you do this and have a strong network, it will increase credibility and your chances in securing an interview. Whether you’re a power user or a casual LinkedIn participant, here are 7 tips to improve your profile:

  1. Update your photo – Your picture should be recent, recognisable and professional. Experts suggest making the photo black and white to set you apart from the crowd
  2. Write a catchy headline – these are the most important 120 characters on your profile and should include your most important keywords and be about what you do as opposed to who you are
  3. Revisit your summary – it should make readers want to pursue a relationship with you said William Arruda, Personal Branding Pioneer
  4. Select the most appropriate skills – you can showcase up to 50 skills and have connections endorse your skills
  5. Join groups – with more than 1.8 million groups to choose from, you have the opportunity to increase your relevancy, find new people to connect with who are not in your direct network
  6. Pursue recommendations – written recommendations are the best way to boost your reputation on the platform
  7. Make it easy to contact you – check your profile and make sure it is publicly visible. Share your contact details on your profile in the summary section, so that people can contact you even if they are not connected to you says David Petherick, LinkedIn Profile Writer

The days of the traditional one-page resume may be numbered, but it’s still not quite time to ditch those well-crafted documents.

While some media commentators including the Harvard Business Review are saying that with a LinkedIn profile you don’t need a resume. Tell us your thoughts in the comments below?