4 Things to Look for in a Candidates LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn has quickly become the number one website for recruiters and other hiring managers to look for candidates. Recent surveys have indicated that 93% of hiring managers and recruiters use the site as part of their hiring process. It is important to know what to look for before beginning a search on LinkedIn. Here are four things to look for when you’re considering candidate profiles.

  1. The complete job history. Some LinkedIn users think that throwing up a couple of words for each job is enough. However, quality candidates will treat their LinkedIn profile like an online resume. Look for details, job duties, and accomplishments. Also, be mindful of typing errors, grammar, and spelling. Just like a resume, the LinkedIn profile should be professional and complete.
  2. Recommendations. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to get large corporations to provide verbal references for employees. Thankfully, LinkedIn offers an alternative. Users can request recommendations from former coworkers or managers who provide these directly on the site. Of course this can be easily faked so look for recommendations that are well written and specific about experience.
  3. The profile photo. While photographs have been frowned upon as part of the hiring process for decades, the social networking component of LinkedIn asks users to upload a professional image on the site. Candidates without photos aren’t likely to be active on the network and will likely not respond to your requests. However, never base hiring decisions on the photograph.
  4. Links to other sites. A good LinkedIn user will take the time to add other media on their profile. They will link to their blog, their Twitter account, or even post presentations. These things can help provide additional insight into who the candidate is and how they might fit in with your organization. Take the time to review these additional sites as well.

Do you want to know more about using LinkedIn for recruiting? Cornerstone staffing agencies in the DFW area can help you today!

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