Let’s Edit Your LinkedIn Profile (again) (for Job Searching)
Let’s face it: job searching can be tough, and standing out in a sea of applicants isn’t getting any easier. But one tool still plays a major role in connecting job seekers and employers — LinkedIn.
Yes, it has its quirks, but recruiters (like us!) and hiring managers still rely heavily on LinkedIn to find candidates. That means having a strong, updated profile can make all the difference in whether or not you get noticed.
Here’s how to make sure your LinkedIn profile is working for you — not against you.
🔍 Think of LinkedIn as Your Digital Mini-Resume
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression you make. In some cases, it may be the only info a recruiter has before deciding whether to reach out. So, make it count!
Include keywords that match the types of jobs you want. These should be woven into your summary and experience sections.
Be specific! Instead of saying “used project management software,” say which software: “Trello, Asana, or Monday.com.”
Don’t be afraid to let your voice come through — conversational and enthusiastic beats stuffy and generic any day.
🧲 Help Recruiters Find You (and Keep Their Attention)
Getting found is one thing. Keeping someone’s attention is another. Here are the basics you don’t want to miss:
Profile photo: Yes, you do need one. Make it professional.
Job titles and dates: These should match your resume.
Education, licenses, and certifications: Add them! They’re often included in recruiter filters.
Skills section: Update regularly with relevant, in-demand skills in your field.
✨ Nail the Headline
Your headline is that line right under your name — and it’s prime real estate. Use it wisely.
Instead of just “Marketing Professional,” try:
Marketing Strategist | Driving brand growth through data and storytelling
Recruiter | Specializing in connecting mission-driven orgs with top talent
Development Manager + Storyteller | Helping nonprofits raise awareness and funding
Think: Job Title + Specialty or Value Statement.
💬 Write a Great Summary (About Section)
This is where you tell a short story about who you are and what drives you.
Keep it to a few lines or one brief paragraph. No need to include everything — just the highlights that tie into the kind of work you’re seeking.
You can even add a personal touch if you’d like. Just keep it genuine and succinct.
For example: Passionate about connecting purpose-driven people with organizations that are changing the world. I’m a recruiter with experience supporting non-profits in building strong, mission-aligned teams across development, operations, and program roles.
I love learning what makes each organization unique and helping them find the right talent to further their impact. Whether it’s a grassroots community org or a national foundation, I bring a thoughtful, human-centered approach to every search.
💼 Experience: Be Clear and Concise
Each job entry should include:
Bullet points or short phrases describing what you did
Key achievements or results (think metrics and impact!)
Accurate job titles and dates
You don’t need to copy-paste your entire resume, but your experience should reflect what’s on it — especially the parts that relate to the jobs you’re targeting.
📚 Don’t Forget the Extras
These sections help round out your profile and boost your visibility:
Education
Skills
Licenses & Certifications
Accomplishments
They show that you’re qualified and invested in your field.
✅ If You’re Open to Work…
Make sure the “Open to Work” setting is turned on (if you’re comfortable) and accurately reflects what you’re looking for. MAKE SURE YOU UPDATE THIS. LinkedIn gives you options to either show this to all users or only to recruiters.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of videos and blogs diving deep into LinkedIn optimization, but we hope this guide gives you a solid place to start — and maybe a little motivation to polish up your profile.
Your LinkedIn is a powerful tool in your job search. Taking a few minutes to update it can help open doors — and land interviews.
If you’re job searching and want more personalized support, reach out to us. We’re here to help!