As we discussed in our previous blog, A Beginner’s Guide: Creating an Optimized LinkedIn Profile, LinkedIn is a hidden gem within social networking. With that comes the stress of creating an eye-catching profile that secures more views from your target audience. Never fear, ProTouch Careers is here! Was that too corny? Oh well!
Let’s get to it!
Do you use the LinkedIn default headline? If you do, please stop. There is no real value behind it, and chances are, it’s not recognizable enough to garner any real attention.
Make your headline more than just a job title. It is one of the first things a potential employer will see. Use that to your advantage! Highlight some of your hard skills or specialization right off the bat. Include words or phrases that a recruiter or potential client might input into a LinkedIn search. Use the headline to make a statement. Do not simply copy your resume. Check out some great examples below!
Example 1
LinkedIn Default: Software Development Intern at Awesome Technology Company
Skills Headline: Aspiring Software Developer | Requirements Analysis | Systems Testing | Issue Resolution | Software Development Life Cycle
Statement Headline: Software Development Student – Java, PHP, JavaScript – Passionate about leveraging new technology to drive user experience.
Example 2:
LinkedIn Default: Director of Sales at Operations Company
Skills Headline: Director of Sales | Sales Management | Business Development | Revenue Generation | Contract Negotiation | Strategic Planning
Statement Headline: Customer-obsessed Sales Director with a proven track record of coaching teams to drive 7-figure results in Fortune 500 organizations.
Example 3:
LinkedIn Default: Human Resources Manager at ABC Company
Skills Headline: Human Resources Manager & Change Agent | Employee Relations | People Management | Strategic Planning | DEI Driver | Global Mobility
Statement Headline: Human Resources Manager focused on driving positive change and inclusion through high-impact people solutions.
Now that we’ve touched on specific examples, let’s discuss what to avoid. Right off the bat, be sure that your headline is grammatically correct. Employers won’t hire someone with a sloppy or incomplete resume, and the same can be said for LinkedIn.
Some other things to avoid are excessive capitalization, controversial topics, too many emojis, and abbreviations that aren’t widely used. Keep it simple but engaging!
If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m happy to answer any questions you may have or even review your profile or resume to offer feedback for FREE!
Want to read our previous blog? Click here!
Haley Kilmartin, CPRW, CVCS
Founder, ProTouch Careers