How to Form Your LinkedIn Keywords List
Your skills are your professional currency, but they are only as valuable as their visibility. Recruiters often use LinkedIn's advanced search functionality, which is part of their paid subscription, to identify potential candidates for vacancies. The search uses keywords to match candidates with job openings, making it crucial to include relevant keywords in your skills section. The right keywords will propel your profile to the forefront of search results, increasing your chances of being invited for interviews.
Curating Your Skills: Quality Over Quantity
LinkedIn allows you to flaunt up to 50 skills, but that doesn't mean you should list every single skill you possess. Instead, hone in on your most pertinent and critical abilities—those that directly resonate with your industry and job roles. Elevate these skills to the top of your list, ensuring they catch the eye of any profile visitors.
Conduct Industry-Specific Keyword Research
Take a data-driven approach to your skillset. Conduct keyword research specific to your industry and intended roles. Browse job descriptions and other professionals' profiles to determine what skills are in high demand. Then, infuse these targeted keywords into your profile to maximize its visibility and relevance.
Choose Measurable and Specific Skills
Opt for skills that can be measured or quantified, lending credibility and tangibility to your profile. For instance, instead of a general skill like "communication," be specific with skills like "public speaking" or "business writing."
Incorrect examples: "competitive pancake eating," "expert selfie taker," "social media oversharer," "master of cat videos"
A Balanced Skill Set: Soft and Hard Skills
Your skillset is a blended cocktail of both hard skills (e.g., data analysis, programming languages, graphic design) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, teamwork, communication). Featuring a mix of both makes your profile more versatile and attractive to a wider range of employers.
Tailoring Skills for Specific Roles
If you're gunning for a particular job, tailor your skills section to align with the requirements of that role. This nuanced approach showcases your deep understanding of what the job entails and your readiness for it.
How to Form Your LinkedIn Keywords List