More and more recruiters are using LinkedIn to find good candidates so if you're not on it already, I definitely recommend setting up a profile (I offer LinkedIn help on my Services tab). You can see my LinkedIn profile here: http://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaaguirre.
LinkedIn is essentially an online version of your resume, so if you've followed my resume tips seen here and here, you should be able to copy and paste most of your fields. Make sure you include something in the Summary section of your profile, this can be a shortened version of your Summary of Qualifications from your resume.
Profile Picture - This can be a selfie, but is not a Facebook duck face picture, it should be professional and just you (not kids or pets). You don't need to spend money on professional glamour shots, but should have good lighting, be in focus, and not wearing anything to revealing. Smile in your picture, it makes you look more approachable and confident. It should also look like you, don't include a picture from years ago that doesn't look like you do today.
Custom URL - Great feature, should be some variation of your name (see my URL above)
Privacy Settings - Check out the privacy settings on LinkedIn, and please keep in mind that this isn't like other social media, this is for your career, so I would recommend making your profile public and accepting invitations to connect if they're relevant to you.
Skills & Expertise - List what you're good at, as you type options will pre-populate for you.
Recommendations - This is one of the most important sections of LinkedIn and you need to use it. After you've added people you know and have worked with as connections, send requests asking them to write you a recommendation. You should only ask people you've worked with and who can attest to how awesome you are at your job. Don't worry, you get to preview this before it goes on your profile. This is a great tool that companies look at and can use as references.
Groups & Companies - LinkedIn offers great ways to network with people in your industry through groups and companies. Join groups that are relevant to you and can connect you with people in your industry who might know about job openings or can connect you with someone at the company you're applying to. The company section is a great way to research the companies you're applying to and learn more about them. You can also use it to follow your dream companies that you'd love to work for.
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