If you’re not making the most of your LinkedIn profile, you’re missing out on a valuable opportunity. The social media tool for human resources, recruiting, and building professional connections, a well-curated LinkedIn profile is a must-have for engineering professionals.
At One Tech Engineering in Minnesota, we work with engineering professionals to connect them with firms that help them grow professionally. Over the years, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the role of LinkedIn as a resource for professionals across all sectors from electrical engineering jobs to civil engineering jobs. We’ve put together this guide to help you polish your LinkedIn profile and hone your individual professional brand. Follow these tips to create a LinkedIn profile that stands out in your field.
1. Optimize Your Headline
The headline on your LinkedIn profile is the first thing recruiters will see next to your photo. Think of it as an advertisement for your professional brand. Although LinkedIn lists your job title here automatically, this headline can be changed and optimized. List yourself as a professional by industry or list jobs you are searching for separated by slash marks, for example: Structural Engineering Professional/ Civil Designer/ Project Manager. When you add a new job, don’t forget to deselect the box that automatically lists it as your headline.
2. Choose Your Images Carefully
Each LinkedIn page comes with an editable default image behind your profile image. Customize your profile by choosing a background image that makes a statement about who you are as a professional. For example, a writer may use an image of a desk with a typewriter or computer while a civil engineer may use an image of their city or work. An image of your office or an abstract background is also good. Make sure your image has good resolution and won’t be cropped on smartphones or desktop computers.
Next, choose a headshot that accurately projects your professional image. Use good indoor lighting or take your photo outside. Feature a solid, neutral background and photograph yourself from the shoulders up wearing attire suitable to your profession.
3. Summarize Your Professional Brand
Your summary should be written in the first person and be designed to demonstrate who you are as an engineering professional. Its first few lines need to grab the reader as anyone looking at your page will need to choose the “show more” option to see beyond the first few lines. Focus on what makes you stand out as an industry professional, and include a call-to-action at the end.
Contact Our Engineering Staffing Minnesota
At One Tech Engineering in Minnesota, our engineering recruiters can help you present the professional image you need to succeed as an engineering or technical professional. We can help you polish your image and connect with the best engineering and technical firms in the region. To learn more, call and speak with our engineering recruiters at 952.884.9199, or contact us to discuss your ideal work environment today.