In today’s world, your resume and LinkedIn profile are vital when applying for new employment positions. Both documents allow you to showcase your best skills and provide employers with must-know information. While your resume and LinkedIn profile play a critical role in your job search, they should not be identical. Below, we’ve detailed the ways your resume and LinkedIn profile should differ.
The Purpose
Your resume and LinkedIn profile have different purposes, impacting how you should craft them. A resume is a targeted document that summarizes your skills, accomplishments, and experiences. It goes directly to the employer and needs to stand out for the hiring manager.
Alternatively, LinkedIn is a networking site that allows you to build connections, share insights, and showcase your personal brand. Your profile can be broad and should touch on your many skills. Often, a headhunter will browse LinkedIn to find candidates for recruitment.
Length
Your resume should focus on the most important information and be a page or two in length—two only if you have lots of relevant experience. You’ll use bullet points and get straight to the point.
On the other hand, LinkedIn allows you to detail information in a more versatile format. For example, you can explain what you did in a specific position plus detail what you learned in the role. This adds depth to your profile page, which will help you shine among competitors.
Content
While both your resume and LinkedIn profile should highlight your accomplishments, the latter allows for more personality. Additionally, LinkedIn enables you to add a professional headshot and cover photo to your profile.
Regarding writing style, resumes should be formal, and LinkedIn can be a bit more conversational. In both materials, however, maintain professionalism in the overall writing.
Updates
Another way your resume and LinkedIn profile should differ is in how often you make changes or updates. Your resume should only change when you have significant career or educational updates.
However, your LinkedIn profile should be more active and supplied with regular updates, such as new certifications, projects, and other professional advancements.
Pro Tip
Most experts advise individuals to regularly write, like, share, and comment on posts to keep their LinkedIn profile active. This makes you stand out more than if you were to only use the profile when job hunting.
Tailoring
Your resume should be targeted to the job you are applying for, while your LinkedIn profile should be more general. Tailor your resume to specific job opportunities, highlighting skills and experiences relevant to the position. On LinkedIn, focus on creating a more general profile showcasing your talents and expertise.
Work With Burnett’s
Burnett’s Staffing is an employment agency in Dallas, Fort Worth, Texas. We specialize in various fields, including accounting, customer service, administration, human resources, and sales. Get in touch with our team for professional career assistance.