Here's How To Get Noticed On LinkedIn To Secure Your Next Big Break

We invest a lot of time networking on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. And if we actually took a fraction of that time to work on our LinkedIn presence, it could help open many doors for us. Having an impressive professional profile that you can link to in your resume or cover letter can give you the edge that lands you your next job. Here are a few ways to get noticed on LinkedIn; check them off as soon as you can.

1. Don't use your Facebook profile picture

Having been on LinkedIn for a few years now, I know that most people don't follow this. I either come across vacation pictures being used as a profile picture, or, the other extreme, passport-sized photographs. Neither of those is appropriate for your LinkedIn profile. You should use something professional, but not too rigid and focused on your face and not your whole body. Consider getting a friend to click one for you, especially for this. It'll be worth it.

2. Add a relevant summary

Not everyone will scroll all the way down on your profile. You need to make an impression even if a potential employer or recruiter is only half paying attention. A short, to-the-point summary of your career and an arresting headline is how you achieve that. You headline must either be amazingly witty (though still relevant to your work) or super crisp and to the point. Your summary is where you get to elaborate (only a little) and talk about what exactly makes you an asset to any company. Don't be shy, but don't lie, either.

3. Reach out to people

This isn't like Facebook, you don't have to limit yourself to adding your real-life friends. Sure, LinkedIn will keep suggesting that you connect with your project partner from third grade, but you should also step out of your comfort zone and make connections with people who can help you grow in your career. Don't aim too high and send requests to Founders and CEOs of multinational companies. Think more along the lines of people who might be at the same level as your reporting manager.

4. Join groups

Not many people use this feature on LinkedIn and I have absolutely no clue why. Find groups that are relevant to your industry and join a couple of them, to begin with. You don't have to necessarily share stuff there. But you'll get to read and learn a lot even by just observing. And even if they're not specifically talking about India, it's still good to know the global trends in your field. It might help you get ahead of the curve.

5. Wish people on their work anniversaries

It's a very small thing, but when someone starts a new job or is celebrating a work anniversary, it's always nice to drop them a congratulatory message. Even if you don't know them personally, it's a great way to start a conversation and makes it easier to reach out to them again in the future.

6. Be more active

You'll only get noticed if you're actually active on the site. Share links to your past work, share your learnings and experiences and even give advice once in a while, if you have something new to say or an insight to offer -- but don't be pedantic. One of the biggest professional turn-offs is a chronic advice-giver and know-it-all. Ask for advice as well. Sharing gives people a chance to interact with you, but oversharing will make them zone out. When you do engage with people, keep it precise and professional. Never get personal or emotional while debating an idea or an ideology.

7. Ask for recommendations

When you add a connection you've worked (or even studied) with in the past, request them to write you a recommendation -- especially if they were higher up the ladder than you. Seeing that your seniors appreciated your work really does make a difference when a potential recruiter is browsing through your profile. Recommendations automatically make your profile (and, in turn, you) more legit.