by Maureen Lynch, Director of Hays Ireland
Having an engaging and up to date LinkedIn profile can help you get the attention of recruiters – whether you are actively or passively looking for a new role. So, does that mean you should focus less on your CV?
The short answer is no. Your CV and LinkedIn profile serve two different purposes during the application process.
So, does the recruiter look at your CV or LinkedIn profile first?
Firstly, it depends on how you apply for a role. For instance, if the initial job application didn’t require you to submit a CV, (e.g. – if using LinkedIn Easy Apply) then your recruiter may search for you on LinkedIn first. Alternatively, your recruiter may find you on LinkedIn, because even though you haven’t actively applied for a job with them, you may match their criteria for a role that they are hiring for.
On the other hand, if you register for a job with a recruiter or apply for a job using your CV, whether that’s through a job board or a recruitment website, then your recruiter will likely view your CV first and then search for you on LinkedIn.
Overall, both your LinkedIn profile and CV will be carefully reviewed by the recruiter at some stage during the application process and will provide them with different information. So, it’s important to make each one as influential as each other to stand out to the recruiter as much as possible.
Why having a good CV is crucial to your job search success
As highlighted, your CV is still the main way of giving the recruiter a factual and chronological snapshot of your skills and experience to date. Similarly, you need to show why you are both interested in and suitable for this job specifically. Meaning this will require a more tailored CV than just adding on a generic LinkedIn profile. Therefore, you must adapt your CV to fit the types of roles you are applying for. You can do this by:
- Tweaking your personal statement to outline why you want this job
- Identifying the keywords used to describe the desired skills on the job description, such as “strong analytical skills”, and ensuring these are incorporated on your CV where possible
- Streamlining your skills, education and experience to highlight only the most relevant information
A strong LinkedIn profile should make your CV stand out
Due to the interactive nature of LinkedIn, you can bring all your skills to life and tell the recruiter more of a story about who you are and what you are looking for.
Also, an up to date profile can increase your chances of being approached by a recruiter first. Nowadays recruiters are using advanced data analytics tools to both find and engage with suitable candidates. That is if you make the best use of this platform. Here are some tips for having a strong and engaging LinkedIn profile:
- Include statements from previous colleagues who have worked with you.
- Back up your experience with the use of videos, certificates and PDF’s to enhance your profile.
- Have a professional profile picture.
- Use compelling headlines to highlight your passions, as this will give a clear indication into your interests and what specialism you work in.
- Become more outspoken and share your professional thoughts – start liking and sharing relevant content which you find interesting.
- Start taking advantage of the people around you. For example, ask for endorsements and professional help – but remember online networking etiquette
In conclusion, you shouldn’t weigh up whether your CV or LinkedIn profile is more influential than the other. CVs are still crucial to your job success, but it should be supported by a professional, active and detailed LinkedIn profile – one which enhances you as a professional, as well as showcase everything your CV as to offer.
