It’s Now Imperative to Stand Out on LinkedIn
It should be no surprise that during tough times in the economy, we see the unemployment numbers climb, and with a recession, that means a prolonged period of time where new opportunities become more sparse.
Here in Canada, we’ve seen unemployment double to 13% in a mere 6 weeks, numbers not seen since the 1982 recession. And as much as we love our jobs as marketers, marketing has a knack for being one of the first on the chopping block, and amongst the last to rehire in recovery.
The job landscape is also likely to be a different beast. We can expect, at least for the next 6-12 months, that a lot of the jobs coming back might not even be permanent positions. Many National, Global or US based companies utilize HR protocols such as head count, salary and FTE (Full Time Equivalent) freezes, which leave local offices with no choice but to hire people on contract – and that includes hiring of senior level positions.
So not only will the fight be for jobs, we will be fighting for roles that aren’t even permanent.
“With fewer jobs available, those who have a stronger digital presence on LinkedIn will be showing up at the top of the recruiting pile”
Craig Lund, President of Marketing Talent Inc.
Standing Out
Leslie Hughes, a LinkedIn Expert who helps professionals optimize their LinkedIn presence, says that for many, it’s not easy to write about themselves. “[People] don’t want to look like they’re bragging or self-promotional.” says Hughes. “Its time to throw that thinking out the window as LinkedIn is the channel where you’re SUPPOSED to highlight your accomplishments.”
Marketing Talent Inc. President, Craig Lund, says that the resume has become part two of the initial sourcing & recruiting process. LinkedIn is a place were headhunters have invested a lot of money to find talent, and beyond your experience, they are spending more time looking at your overall profile AND your professional presence on the platform. “It is simply imperative that you invest properly in crafting a fully fleshed out profile and then actually actively engage on the platform” says Lund.
There are hundreds of ‘how to’ tutorials for doing this yourself, which can make the process seem event more daunting. That’s where getting it done professionally makes more sense. Just like upskilling with education and certifications, this is an investment in your career.
Professional LinkedIn Profile Writing Experts typically charge anywhere from $800-1200 for their services, with some executive specialists charging well over $2000.
When you see how complex the process is, you start to see why. Hughes’s methodology is pretty meticulous. She starts by conducting an audit of a client’s online presence, which is then followed by a discovery call to fully understand their own unique story. The actual crafting of the profile takes about 5- 7 business days to complete and the client approves the final content.
As the government starts to re-open the economy and businesses are actually in the position to start generating revenues and in turn re-hiring, now is the time to reflect on your career and spit shine your LinkedIn profile.
Leslie Hughes is currently accepting new clients. Let us know if you would like an email introduction and quote by filling out your information here–> MEET LESLIE HUGHES
