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Let’s be honest—LinkedIn has a bit of an identity crisis. Launched in 2003 as the go-to platform for professional networking, in 2025, it sometimes feels like a strange mix of a job board, a TED Talk, and a dating app where people brag about waking up at 4 AM. 

Whether you love it or hate it, LinkedIn remains one of the most powerful tools for job seekers and professionals trying to grow their careers. If used correctly, it can help you land your dream role, connect with industry leaders, and showcase your expertise in ways that no other social media platform allows us to.

As someone who has secured life-changing opportunities through LinkedIn—and as a marketer who lives and breathes social media, I’m here to help you cut through the noise with 10 tips to make LinkedIn actually work for your career. 

Optimise your Profile - First impressions matter

If your LinkedIn profile still has that grey, faceless avatar, we need to talk.

Use a high-quality headshot with neutral colours. Think of a passport photo but one that is more alive.
Your headline is prime real estate. Instead of just “Job Seeker,” try something like “Aspiring UX Designer | Passionate About User-Centered Design.” The About section is your elevator pitch—keep it engaging, concise, and keyword-rich.

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Use Strong Keywords to Get Discovered

Recruiters aren’t scrolling through profiles looking for your name —they’re searching for specific skills. If your profile doesn’t have the right keywords, you’re invisible to them. 

Find job descriptions of roles you want and sprinkle those keywords into your profile. Keep updating your skills to match 2025 industry trends (AI, cybersecurity, digital marketing—whatever’s sought out in your field). 

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Leverage AI for Profile Optimisation

Not sure how to write a compelling About section? 

Try this prompt for ChatGPT:
"Rewrite my LinkedIn About section to highlight my transferable skills for a tech career transition. Keep it engaging and aligned with 2025 hiring trends." AI tools can also help optimize your job descriptions, headlines, and even cover letter templates—just remember to add a personal touch.

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Keep Your Profile Active & Updated

Your LinkedIn shouldn’t look like a fake account.

Update your job titles, skills, and accomplishments regularly. Add quantifiable results for example, “Increased sales by 30%” sounds way better than “Handled sales.” Showcase projects in a portfolio section—because your work will speak for you and get you your next opportunity.

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Publish Content & Build Thought Leadership

Your profile is optimised—now what? If all you do is apply for jobs, you’re missing out.

Share insights about your field—whether it’s a personal career lesson, an industry update, or even a work struggle. You don’t need to be an expert. People relate to honest, real-world experiences (not just corporate buzzwords). Engaging with posts and starting conversations boosts visibility—LinkedIn’s algorithm loves active users.

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Showcase Your Work—Regularly

Never assume people know what you do. Even if you shared something last year, new people join LinkedIn every day. Repost past projects, case studies, or career wins. Use the “Featured” section to pin your best work to the top of your profile. Don’t be shy—self-promotion is NOT cringe when done right.

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Turn on DM Notifications & Be Open to Opportunities

If your DMs are closed, you’re blocking potential career breakthroughs.

Adjust settings to notify you about relevant job openings—and apply within 24 hours (early birds get the jobs). Recruiters love InMail—respond promptly if you get a message. I’ve had numerous times where I would save a role, hoping to submit an application during the weekend, but by the time I sit down to apply, the role is no longer available. Don’t let opportunities slip by because you “forgot to check LinkedIn.”

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Gather Endorsements & Testimonials

People trust what others say about you more than what you say about yourself. Ask colleagues, mentors, or past managers for recommendations—they add credibility. Pro tip: Give endorsements first—people are more likely to return the favour. 

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Network with Intent—Ask for Referrals

“Networking” isn’t just about adding random people—it’s about building meaningful connections. Engage with posts from employees at companies you admire before sending a request.

When asking for a referral, be specific:
"Hi [Name], I see you work at [Company]. I’m interested in [Role]—I’d love to hear about your experience there!" Referrals carry way more weight than cold applications.

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Plan for Your Future Role—Study Career Timelines

The fastest route to your dream job is to study the people who already have it.

Look at the LinkedIn profiles of professionals in roles you aspire to. Identify what skills, certifications, or experiences they have that you don’t. Fill those gaps through courses, side projects, or mentorships.

It’s not stalking—it’s strategic career planning.

LinkedIn isn’t just another social media platform—it’s a powerful career tool. But like any tool, it only works if you use it the right way.

Be intentional—know what you want from LinkedIn. Stay consistent—post, comment, and engage regularly. Showcase your skills—your LinkedIn should be a living, breathing digital résumé because your future employer might just be scrolling right now. 

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Ready to take it further? Check out the brand-new Careers&Things website for in-depth guides on how to make LinkedIn work for YOU! 

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www.careersandthings.com

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