LinkedIn Resources

Linkedin Profile CheckList

Photo

  • Upload a recent, professional-looking, and close-up photo.

  • Ask a friend to take a photo of you with their cellphone, no selfies!

  • Wear work appropriate clothing in front of a non-distracting background and don’t forget to smile.

Banner Photo

  • Think about what image represents you, your brand, and/or your professional interests.

  • You can create a free banner on Canva, use a landscape photo, or highlight a professional accomplishment.

Headline

  • Include your major, titles you currently hold, key skills or interests, and the type of opportunities you’re seeking.

  • [Current Role/Education] + [Key Skills] + [Career Goals].

  • Ex: Information Systems major at CSUF | SQL | Python | Aspiring Data Analyst.

Summary

  • Highlight who you are, what you do or want to do, and the skills or experiences that set you apart.

  • Write in the first person & focus on your strengths, interests, and career goals.

  • Include relevant accomplishments, values, and industry - specific keywords when possible.

Experience

  • List jobs that you’ve had (part-time & full-time).

  • Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments using bullet points or short paragraphs.

  • Use strong action verbs & quantify your work when possible!

Education

  • Include educational experiences including study abroad.

  • Include major and any other relevant details.

Skills & Expertise

  • Add at least 5-10 skills.

  • Include a mix of hard skills (ex: technical skills such as Excel, SQL) and soft skills (ex: communication, teamwork).

  • Your connection can endorse you for these skills.

Honors & Awards

  • Don’t be shy to include the awards you’ve earned, whether they are in school or outside of school.

Organizations

  • Do you participate in any organizations on or off campus? Briefly describe what you did within the organization.

Volunteering

  • Even if you weren’t paid for a job, volunteer experience is often just as valuable as paid work!

Courses & Projects

  • Add the relevant courses you’ve taken to increase your credibility and skills.

Recommendations

  • Ask managers, professors, or coaches, that you’ve worked closely with to write a recommendation. This gives credibility to your strengths and skills.

Interests

  • Follow groups and influencers that align with your personal and professional interests. Follow companies/organizations in your field to stay current with company news, learn more about a company, and hear about internship and job opportunities.