When recruiters and potential employers use Linkedin to launch their candidate searches, they do so with specific questions in mind. Most of the time, these employers aren’t just browsing through profiles hoping to find a candidate who grabs their attention; instead, they’re conducting targeted keyword searches and skimming through the results with a focus on four areas: Has the candidate experienced this type of work before? Is she interested in a job that fits this description? Is she likely to accept the job if it’s offered? And what will she bring to the company that other, equally qualified candidates can’t? Make sure your profile provides all the information your potential employers need.

1. Include your geographic area in your profile.

You don’t need to include your exact address, but give some indication of your state, region, or nearest metropolitan area. Don’t suggest interest in a job outside of your commuting distance or the areas to which you’re willing to relocate.

2. Use keywords in your work history section.

If you’ve skimmed through thousands of job posts, then you know the kinds of acronyms, certifications, and software systems your target employers are looking for. Make sure you include these in your work history and make sure you list or describe them using the most common phrases and spellings.

3. Refer to your industry.

If you’re looking for a job as a physician’s assistant, a phlebotomist, or an LPN, make sure your profile includes at least one use of the phrase “healthcare” or “healthcare industry.” Every job falls into a broader category that describes the industry or field, and employers often narrow their search results using these terms.

4. Include your specific targeted job title.

Include the exact title of your ideal position at least once in your profile. Instead of just saying “I’d like to work with animals”, use the term “animal care specialist” or “animal behaviorist”. Again, these terms are often used as keywords by those who are looking for you.

5. Make it easy for employers to contact your or obtain more information.

Help yourself by helping your reviewers, and do this by including clear contact information in your profile, plus at least one or two links to sources that contain additional information about you, like your website, your blog, or your social media profiles.

For more information on how to help employers find you on Linkedin and how to provide answers to their most important questions, reach out to the Shelby staffing experts at PSU.