The Top 10 Mistakes Job Seekers Make on LinkedIn (and How to Fix Them)

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers, but many professionals unknowingly make mistakes that hurt their visibility and networking opportunities. Whether you’re actively looking for a new role or just keeping an eye on opportunities, avoiding these common pitfalls can make a big difference.

Here are the top TEN mistakes job seekers make on LinkedIn—and how to fix them.

1. Your Profile Lacks a Professional Photo and Banner

Your profile picture and banner image create a first impression. Without them, your profile may seem incomplete or unprofessional, profiles with banner images fare better in the algorithms, and remember, people connect with people - they need to see your face.

Fix:

• Use a clear, high-quality headshot where you look approachable and professional
• Add a banner image that reflects your industry, skills, or personal brand

A strong visual presence makes your profile more inviting and credible.

2. Your Profile is Missing Key Job-Seeker Keywords

Recruiters search LinkedIn using keywords related to job titles, skills, and industry terms. If your profile doesn’t include these, you may not show up in search results.

Fix:

• Identify keywords used in job descriptions for roles you want
• Incorporate those terms into your Headline, About section, and Experience
• Make sure your Skills & Endorsements section includes relevant skills

Using the right keywords improves your chances of being discovered by recruiters and hiring managers.

3. You Can’t Be Tagged, or Tag Names, in Posts or Comments

Tagging people in LinkedIn posts and comments is a great way to engage your network, acknowledge connections, and increase your post’s visibility. However, many job seekers find they can’t tag names, or be tagged by others, and that’s often due to a setting in their profile. And I can't tag you in my #yournexthire series HERE.

Fix:

• Go to your LinkedIn Settings & Privacy
• Navigate to Visibility → Mentions or Tags
• Ensure that the setting is Turned On so others (and you) can tag profiles in posts and comments

Once this is enabled, start engaging by tagging recruiters, hiring managers, and colleagues in relevant discussions to expand your reach and ask your connections to tag you if they see roles you may be interested in.

4. You’re Not Actively Engaging with Content

Many job seekers set up their LinkedIn profile and then go silent. However, LinkedIn’s algorithm favors active users, and engaging with content helps you stay visible to your network.

Fix:

• Comment meaningfully on posts from industry leaders, recruiters, and hiring managers
• Share your experiences, skills, and professional journey

Consistency is key—interacting a few times a week can keep you on recruiters’ radar.

5. Not Contributing to Your Community

Engagement goes beyond job searching—actively posting your projects and insights positions you as a thought leader.

Fix:

• Share original content, such as industry insights or challenges you’ve overcome
• Share valuable insights, articles, or job search updates and tips

Becoming a trusted voice in your industry helps build credibility and expands your professional network.

6. You Haven’t Turned On “Open to Work” Properly

LinkedIn allows you to signal to recruiters that you’re open to job opportunities, but many job seekers either forget to activate this or set it incorrectly. There is NO shame in turning on this badge (so stop telling people this please!)

Fix:

• Click the Me icon and select View Profile
• Click Open to Work → Finding a new job
• Choose Who Sees You: Recruiters only (for privacy) or All LinkedIn Members (for more visibility)
• Add relevant job titles, locations, and preferences

This feature helps recruiters and connections find you faster and match you to the right opportunities.

7. No Current "Open to Work" Post

LinkedIn favors fresh content, and a well-crafted "Open to Work" post increases your visibility in search results. Why the #opentowork post is favored by LinkedIn HERE.

Fix:

• Write a post announcing that you are open to new opportunities
• Highlight and expand upon your skills, experience, and the type of roles you're looking for
• Ask your network to share or refer you

Regular updates about your job search keep you top of mind for recruiters and connections.

8. Using the "I'm Interested" Auto Response in Job Post Comments

Many job seekers comment "I'm interested" on job postings, expecting recruiters to reach out. Unfortunately, this approach rarely works because it lacks personalization and effort.

Fix:

• Instead of commenting, send a direct message to the recruiter or hiring manager with a tailored message
• Express genuine interest and highlight how your skills align with the role

Taking a proactive approach increases your chances of getting noticed.

9. Typing Your Pitch in the Comment of a Job Posting

Writing your entire pitch in a job posting comment is ineffective because recruiters rarely sift through comments to find candidates.

Fix:

• Apply directly through the job post
• Send a well-crafted message to the job poster with a personalized introduction and resume

A direct and personalized outreach stands out far more than a comment in a sea of responses.

10. Not Growing Your Network by the 100 Allowed Connections per Week

LinkedIn allows you to send up to 100 connection requests per week, yet many job seekers fail to maximize this opportunity to expand their network and see more open jobs.

Fix:

• Send personalized connection requests to recruiters, industry professionals, and colleagues
• THANK people who connect with you - online manners count
• Engage with your new connections by commenting on their posts or messaging them

A larger, engaged network increases your reach and job opportunities.

BONUS TIP: Emailing Your Connections and Asking Them to Find You a Job

Sending direct messages or emails to connections asking them to find you a job is not the best approach. It can come across as desperate and puts the responsibility on others instead of showcasing your initiative.

Fix:

• Instead of asking outright for a job, request a brief chat to seek career advice
• Show interest in their work and ask if they know of any open roles
• Offer value in return—share insights, make introductions, or express appreciation for their time

Networking is about building relationships, not making demands. Approach connections with genuine curiosity and gratitude.

Are you making any of these LinkedIn mistakes? ??! Avoiding these LinkedIn mistakes can help you stand out and make meaningful connections during your job search. Optimizing your settings, engaging with your network, and ensuring your profile is complete will improve your chances of landing your next role.

Ready to make LinkedIn work for you? Start by fixing one mistake today!

#jobseekers #opentowork #yournexthire