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LinkedIn Profile Tips: Optimise Your Profile to Get Found by Recruiters

Recruiters search LinkedIn every day. Learn how to optimise your headline, About section and experience so you show up in the right searches.

By BuildCVFast Editorial TeamPublished Updated 3 min read

LinkedIn is where many recruiters source candidates before a job is even advertised. A complete, keyword-rich profile works for you around the clock โ€” and it is the first thing many hiring managers check after reading your CV.

Write a headline that is more than your job title

Your headline appears in every search result and comment. Use it to state your role, specialism and value โ€” with keywords recruiters search for.

Optimised headlines

  • Registered Nurse | Emergency & Critical Care | BLS, ACLS | Open to roles in the UAE
  • Data Analyst | SQL ยท Power BI ยท Python | Turning sales data into decisions

Default headlines

  • Nurse at City Hospital
  • Looking for opportunities

Use a professional photo and banner

  • A clear, recent headshot with a plain background and good lighting.
  • Your face should fill about 60% of the frame; dress as you would for an interview.
  • Use the banner to show your field โ€” a simple image or a line of text about what you do.

Write an About section in your own voice

Unlike a CV, the About section can be written in first person and can show personality. Aim for three short paragraphs: what you do and for whom, your best achievements, and what you are looking for next. Include your main skills naturally.

About section example

I help e-commerce brands grow through data-driven email and social campaigns.

Over the last five years I have managed campaigns for 20+ online stores, increasing repeat purchase rates by an average of 22%. I am comfortable with Klaviyo, Meta Ads Manager, GA4 and Shopify.

I am currently open to senior CRM or lifecycle marketing roles, remote or in Dubai.

Put this into practice

Build an ATS-friendly CV with live preview and free PDF download.

Open the CV builder โ†’

Fill in experience, skills and recommendations

  • Copy your best CV achievements into each role โ€” two to four bullets each.
  • Add up to 50 skills and pin your top three; match them to job adverts.
  • Ask former managers or clients for two or three specific recommendations.
  • Add certifications with credential IDs so they can be verified.
  • Set "Open to work" (visible to recruiters only if you are currently employed).

Stay active โ€” lightly

You do not need to post daily. Commenting thoughtfully on industry posts once or twice a week and sharing an occasional project update keeps your profile visible and shows genuine interest in your field.

Frequently asked questions

Should my LinkedIn profile be the same as my CV?+

The facts (titles, employers, dates) should match. LinkedIn can be broader and more personal, while your CV is tailored to each job.

Does LinkedIn Premium help get a job?+

It can help with messaging recruiters and seeing who viewed your profile, but a complete, optimised free profile matters far more.

How many skills should I list on LinkedIn?+

List all relevant skills (up to 50) and pin your top three. Skills help recruiters find you in searches.

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BuildCVFast Editorial Team

This guide is written and reviewed by the BuildCVFast editorial team using current hiring practices, published employer guidance and official government sources where relevant. We update our guides regularly. Read our editorial policy or send us a correction.

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