Why LinkedIn matters (and why you should care)

Think of LinkedIn as the professional version of your social life. Recruiters search it, peers share insights on it, and hiring managers check it before interviews. I remember landing an interview simply because a hiring manager liked a thoughtful comment I left on a post — not because of a resume tweak. That kind of visibility is what makes LinkedIn powerful.

Optimize your profile — make a great first impression

Your profile is your first handshake. Small changes create big results.

Profile picture and headline

Use a clear, friendly headshot and write a headline that says what you do and who you help. Instead of just ‘Marketing Manager,’ try ‘Marketing Manager helping B2B tech companies grow user acquisition.’ This helps in keyword searches and tells people why they should care.

Summary (About) and experience

Write your About section like a short elevator pitch. Mention your strengths, notable wins, and what you’re looking for next. Use first-person language — it feels human and approachable. For experience entries, focus on achievements with metrics when possible: ‘Increased organic leads by 40% in 12 months’ beats ‘Handled content marketing.’

Skills, endorsements, and recommendations

Add 8–12 relevant skills and request recommendations from former managers or clients. Recommendations act like mini testimonials — they build trust fast.

Grow a meaningful network (not just numbers)

Quality over quantity. Here’s how to build connections that actually help your career.

Personalize connection requests

Always add a short note explaining why you want to connect. Mention a shared group, a mutual connection, or something specific about their work. A one-line note goes a long way.

Engage consistently

Comment thoughtfully on posts, share helpful articles, and post your own insights. Even 10–15 minutes a few times a week can keep you visible. I like to share short lessons from recent projects — people appreciate practical takeaways.

Job search strategies on LinkedIn

LinkedIn’s job search tools are strong, but using them strategically matters.

Set job alerts and use keywords

Create job alerts for titles and skills you want. Use keywords that match your target role and industry. If you’re open to remote work, include ‘remote’ as a filter.

Apply thoughtfully and follow up

When you apply through LinkedIn, try to find a hiring manager or recruiter on the job posting and send a brief, tailored message. A polite follow-up after a week shows initiative — not pushiness.

Use LinkedIn features to stand out

LinkedIn has features many people overlook. Use them to add depth to your profile and activity.

Featured section

Pin your best work: presentations, articles, or portfolio pieces. This is prime real estate to showcase what you actually do.

LinkedIn Learning and posts

Complete short courses to signal continuous learning. Share takeaways from courses or from your day-to-day work — it shows growth and helps your network learn from you. If you want structured learning, check out LinkedIn Learning for industry-specific courses.

Networking messages that get replies

Keep messages short, specific, and helpful. Instead of ‘Can we chat about jobs?’ try ‘I enjoyed your article on product-led growth. I’m exploring PM roles in fintech — could I ask one question about how your team approaches roadmaps?’

Leverage groups and communities

Join relevant groups and be active. Answer questions, share resources, and connect with members. Groups are a lower-pressure place to build credibility and discover opportunities.

Track and iterate

Notice what gets traction: certain post topics, times of day, or message styles. Double down on what works and change what doesn’t. Your LinkedIn approach should evolve as you do.

Helpful resources and next steps

Want ongoing tips? Explore career content in your site’s Carrere category for resume and interview guides. For official platform info, visit LinkedIn‘s homepage.