From hunting, to headhunted

How nice would it be for an employer to come to you with an opportunity, because they've seen your active on Linkedin, your profile is up-to-date with all your relevant skills and you're a networking gun...

This is the case for some, and it can be the case for you, it comes down to working smarter, not harder and in this week's newsletter I want to go over some of the things you can do to stop having to hunt for your next role, and be headhunted instead.

Maximising Your LinkedIn Profile:

LinkedIn is often the first port of call for recruiters and hiring managers when evaluating potential talent. I've said it once and i'll say it again, Linkedin is a FREE resource where anyone can see your potential, so utilise this tool to the best of your ability.

Think of it as your digital business card, a representation of your personal brand.

Linkedin is only as good as you make it, so expand your network, reach out to people within your industry and remain active, keeping your profile up-to-date.

Consider these tips to present yourself in the best possible light:

1. Professional Presentation:Start with a clear, recent, and professional photo - yes we all love dogs, but your dog doesn't need to be in your photo, also a custom background image can also be eye-catching!
2. 'About' Section:Your 'About' section should succinctly summarise who you are and what you bring to the table, make sure to use keywords that suit your areas of interest.
3. FeaturesUtilise the features section, where you shocase the best of your work, whether it be an article or video pin it to the top of your page so it's the first thing people see.
4. Articles and PostsSpeak to your network, write what you're interested in and engage with other people's content. Once you post, it's there forever - an article lasts a lifetime, and the more you post the bigger the space you take up on Linkedin
5. Previous Achievements Keep your employment history focused on major accomplishments and milestones. Highlight your impact with quantifiable results.
6. Audit Your Network:Review your connections and groups to ensure they align with your current professional objectives.
7. Connect with Purpose:Prioritise connections with individuals you've interacted with or who hold relevance to your career path.
8. Stay Informed:Follow recruiters, industry leaders, and organisations of interest to stay updated on the latest trends and opportunities.
9. Engage Actively:Respond promptly to messages and be open to discussions about potential opportunities. If a role doesn't suit you, consider recommending suitable candidates.
10. Enable #OpenToWork:If actively seeking new roles, use LinkedIn's #OpenToWork feature to signal your availability to recruiters discreetly.

The power of networking

I won't expand on this too much as last week I wrote a newsletter on Networking, so if you're interested then check that out here: The Power of Networking but as ever, there's a huge importance in building and maintaining relationships in your industry.

Building Relationships for Future Opportunities:

Even if a recruiter doesn't have the right opportunity for you at present, maintaining a connection can be a wise move for potential future roles. Foster relationships with individuals who have extensive networks and can provide valuable introductions.

You've nailed the above, and you've been reached out to for a role? What's next?...

It's essential to consider not only the job fit but there's other factors to consider, and be aware of when pursuing your next role...

Ask yourself...

• What culture would you thrive in?
• What motivates you and drives you in a role?
• What kind of salary package would I be looking for?
• What is it about my current role that I like/don't like?

Be honest with...

• Be transparent about your minimum expectations, do your research and don't outprice yourself - if you know the way recruitment works then usually the more money we get you, the more money we make (within reason!)
• Address any other opportunities or offers you have on the table, you can use this as a means to get the best possible outcome in terms of remuneration and you're also setting the expectations of the recruiter and hiring manager
• Remember, your professional reputation is a valuable asset - if you accept, then decide to pull out, don't ghost your recruiter, work together so that you don't tarnish your relationship or chance of securing an offer at that company again

Now, go implement the above steps and if you do, then I'll most likely find you in my next search, or at my next meetup.