Get a free CV review
Many professional CV writing companies offer a free no-obligation review. If your CV isn't getting you interviews, an objective, professional opinion can help identify areas for possible improvement. If you have a specialist background and are working with recruiters in your field, be open to their suggestions on how to present your skills and experience, as they have insider knowledge on company requirements.
Use the new features on LinkedIn
Three new developments will help strengthen your profile.
Firstly, you can reorder your profile sections by clicking and dragging the + sign (next to the section headings) to where you want them to be. For example, if your recommendations are the most striking proof of your professional reputation, move them to underneath your summary. You can reorder any of your main profile sections to prioritise your greatest strengths and achievements, ensuring that people viewing your profile can quickly see what you consider to be your selling points.
Secondly, you can share links or news articles with your network from your status bar. When you click the Attach Link icon, a small image and an article excerpt appear — much like on Facebook. You can tweet the link, or share it with everyone in your network. This feature is ideal for helping you keep your status fresh with relevant news, updates, or useful links.
The third — and most immediately useful new feature — is the option to follow companies and receive notifications about recent hires and promotions, job opportunities, and company news. You can follow either from the company's profile page or from an individual's profile. Following companies means you can stay-up-to date, do timely research before interviews and demonstrate your interest in the company.
Develop your network on Twitter
Twitter is one of the easiest and quickest ways to make and develop contacts in your industry. Recruiters and hiring managers are increasingly using Twitter to post jobs and source talent, so it makes sense to be visible to them.
Start by searching for and then following specialist recruiters, people working in companies you're interested in, and thought-leaders in your industry. You can use hashtags such as #IT or #IT London to refine your search.
To get the most out of Twitter you should write a bio including relevant keywords. Upload a photo and link to your blog or LinkedIn profile. Tweet regularly and think of Twitter as a way to reinforce your professional image. Share useful information such as blog posts and news articles, tweet about the latest trends and ideas in your field and answer people's questions. Use Twitter lists to segment the people you follow into different groups, such as recruiters, companies, careers experts, for example. Rather than reading through your entire twitter stream, you can save time by focussing on one group at a time.
