A Guide to Building a LinkedIn Profile
Linkedin Home Become a Founding Partner Apply for an Internship Become a community partner Resources Contact Creating a LinkedIn profile is a great way to build your professional presence online. It helps you showcase your skills, experience, and ambitions so employers and connections can see what you have to offer. No matter your background, this guide will help you step by step. Step 1: Sign Up or Log In to LinkedIn Create an Account: If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, sign up using your email address. It’s free and easy to set up. Log In: If you already have an account, simply log in to get started. – Step 2: Add a Profile Photo Choose a clear photo where your face is visible and well-lit. You don’t need professional photography—just a simple photo where you look friendly and approachable. Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Step 3: Create a Headline Your headline is one of the first things people see on your profile. If you don’t have a job title yet, that’s okay! Focus on your skills and aspirations. Examples: Aspiring Digital Marketer | Creative Thinker | Passionate About Social Media & Branding Tech Enthusiast | Entry-Level Software Engineer | Problem-Solver & Innovator Your headline should reflect your interests and where you want to go in your career. – Step 4: Write an ‘About’ Section This is where you introduce yourself. Keep it short and focused on your strengths. What to include: A little about your background Your skills and strengths What excites you about your career path Your goals for the future Example: “I am an Elevate 1000 candidate eager to grow in the digital marketing field. I have experience in social media, content creation, and customer engagement. I am always looking to learn, improve, and make a positive impact. I look forward to connecting with professionals and exploring new career opportunities.” Your summary is your chance to tell your story in your own words—keep it authentic! – Step 5: Add Work & Volunteer Experience If you have previous jobs, internships, or volunteer work, add them here. If you don’t, include experiences like school projects, side projects, or anything where you used your skills. Example: Marketing Volunteer | Local Community Centre | Jan 2024 – Present Helped create social media posts that increased engagement Assisted in planning local events and outreach efforts Gained experience in teamwork and communication – Step 6: Add Education & Certifications Include any education, training, or certifications you have completed. If you didn’t attend university, that’s okay! Add any relevant courses, workshops, or online training. Example: Digital Marketing Basics | Free Online Course (2024) High School Diploma | Local High School (Year Completed) – Step 7: Showcase Your Skills LinkedIn allows you to list your skills so employers can see what you’re good at. Add both technical and soft skills. Examples: Technical Skills: Social Media Management, Microsoft Office, Graphic Design Soft Skills: Communication, Teamwork, Time Management Ask a mentor, teacher, or colleague to endorse your skills for credibility. – Step 8: Add Transferable Skills Even if you don’t have direct work experience, you likely have transferable skills from other areas of your life. These are skills you can use in many different jobs. Examples: Customer Service: From working in retail, volunteering, or helping in community events Leadership: From leading a school project or organising an event Problem-Solving: From handling challenges in everyday life or finding creative solutions to tasks Adaptability: From learning new skills quickly or adjusting to new environments Organisation: From managing multiple responsibilities in school, home, or work Highlighting these skills shows employers that you are capable and ready to learn! Step 9: Request Recommendations A recommendation is a short statement from someone you’ve worked with, like a mentor or former employer. If you’ve done volunteer work or a training programme, ask a supervisor to write one for you. Example: “[Your Name] is a hardworking and dedicated individual. Their ability to adapt and learn quickly makes them a valuable team member.” Step 10: Highlight Projects & Achievements If you’ve worked on any projects (school, personal, or work-related), list them here. This shows your initiative and problem-solving skills. Example: Designed a poster for a local charity event, helping attract 200+ attendees. Assisted in setting up an online store for a small business. Step 11: Join LinkedIn Groups Connect with professionals in your industry by joining LinkedIn groups. These communities can help you learn and find opportunities. Examples: Marketing Professionals UK Technology Innovators Network Step 12: Stay Active on LinkedIn Engage with content, share updates, and connect with others. You can post about your career journey or share interesting articles. Example Post Idea: “Excited to start my career in tech! Just completed an online coding course and learned so much about Python.” – Step 13: Customise Your LinkedIn URL Make your profile easier to find by personalising your LinkedIn URL (e.g., linkedin.com/in/yourname). – Step 14: Set Your Contact Information If you’re comfortable, add your email or a link to your portfolio so recruiters can reach out. Step 15: Use the ‘Open to Work’ Feature If you’re job hunting, turn on LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” feature so recruiters know you’re available. Now you’re ready to build a LinkedIn profile that reflects your skills, potential, and ambitions. Keep it updated and stay active—opportunities are waiting for you! BACK © Inclusive Companies. All Rights Reserved. Inclusive Companies Registered in England No 1139 7949. VAT Reg No 305 8157 12. Linkedin Instagram Home About How it Works Resources Contact Home About How it Works Resources Contact