LinkedIn offers a feature where you can apply with your profile instead of with a traditional resume. This may lead you to believe that the social platform may make resumes obsolete. Actually, LinkedIn may like that idea a lot! We doubt, however, that a social page, even though it’s for professionals and companies, will ever replace a good resume. With that said, having a good LinkedIn profile is just as important as having a good resume. Here’s how you can use both tools to further your career.
How is LinkedIn Different from a Resume?
There are obvious differences between the file format of a PDF resume and LinkedIn, of course. LinkedIn is really a networking site that wants you to connect with other users of the platform. Your profile should be up-to-date, but if that’s all you do with LinkedIn you’re missing out on some of the best features of the service. You can use it to network your way to a job as well as apply directly to job postings. But you can also solicit speaking gigs or mentorship opportunities, volunteer with your favorite non-profit—and more.
A resume is good for one thing: Applying to a job. However, you should have both a LinkedIn profile and a resume. Here’s how to use these tools together.
How to Use LinkedIn and Your Resume to Benefit Your Career
Your resume is a great tool that can be uploaded to an applicant tracking system so recruiters can find you. You can even attach a copy to your LinkedIn profile. The resume should list a chronological history of the jobs you’ve held.
Your LinkedIn profile has more color than your resume. For example, you’ll want a professional headshot and banner that tells people something about you. Your resume won’t have these graphical elements, typically, although it could. A LinkedIn profile could have portfolio samples of your work and testimonials from people who’ve worked with you. Consider a LinkedIn profile to be an opportunity to share some of the personality behind the resume.
What you post on LinkedIn should follow your brand image, too. It allows you to share ideas and comment on other professional posts. An employer can sift through your comments and posts and get a better sense of you in a way that they simply can’t on a resume.
Also, your LinkedIn profile is pretty generic. It’s not something you tailor for a job you’re applying to. However, you should tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills for the job you’re applying to. That’s important for getting noticed by the employer.
So, will LinkedIn take the place of a resume? The answer is “No.” But you should have both to maximize the chances of your finding a great job. PrideStaff helps candidates like you get their resume and LinkedIn profile out to top employers. We can help you maximize your reach by using these tools effectively. Call on us to find out how we can help you today.
