Let’s talk LinkedIn.
If the words “optimize your LinkedIn profile” make you break out in a stress sweat, same. It can feel like this weird, overly formal platform where everyone talks like corporate robots and humblebrags about promotions.
But guess what? It doesn’t have to be that way.
LinkedIn is one of the best tools for getting noticed, making connections, and even landing jobs—especially in your post-grad era. And the best part? You can make it work for you without sounding like a résumé with a pulse.
Let’s give your LinkedIn a full-on glow-up.
Step 1: The Profile Picture (Yes, You Need One)
Your profile photo doesn’t have to be taken by a professional photographer or feature a blazer and a bookshelf. It just needs to be:
• Clear (no blurry bar selfies)
• Bright and friendly (natural light is your BFF)
• Just you (no group pics—even if you crop them)
Aim for a solid background and a smile that says, “Yes, I’m employable and also fun at happy hour.”
Step 2: Your Headline = Your Hook
Default LinkedIn headlines are snoozefests. “Recent graduate seeking opportunities” doesn’t stand out when every other recent grad is saying the same thing.
Use your headline to give people a snapshot of who you are and what you’re into.
Try this formula:
Degree or interest + top skill or industry + something that adds personality
Examples:
• Marketing Grad | Social Media Strategy | Creating Scroll-Stopping Content
• Psychology Major | Passionate About Mental Health Advocacy & Wellness Writing
• Entry-Level UX Designer | Obsessed With Making Tech More Human
You’ve got more personality than a job title—show it.
Step 3: The About Section (Where You Really Shine)
This is your chance to ditch the robotic buzzwords and tell your story. Think of this section like your cover letter meets your TikTok intro.
Answer these:
• What are you passionate about?
• What kind of work excites you?
• What experience or projects are you proud of?
• What kind of roles are you looking for?
Keep it conversational and clear. Don’t be afraid to write like a human.
Example opening:
Hi there! I’m a recent communications grad with a passion for helping brands tell better stories. From managing social media for my campus org to interning at a lifestyle magazine, I’ve loved every minute of creating content that connects. Now I’m looking to bring that same energy to a creative marketing team where I can grow, learn, and contribute.
Boom—memorable and authentic.
Step 4: Your Experience Isn’t “Too Small”—Here’s How to Show It Off
Whether it’s an internship, part-time job, or club leadership, it belongs on your LinkedIn if you can connect it to the skills you’re building.
For each experience, write 2–4 bullet points that focus on:
• What you did
• How you did it
• The impact you made
Example:
• Created weekly Instagram content for student org, increasing engagement by 35%
• Planned and promoted 3 campus events with over 100 attendees
• Collaborated with a team of 5 to pitch and execute semester-long projects
That’s leadership, creativity, and communication—all from a campus job. Yes, girl.
Step 5: Add Skills Strategically
Pick 5–10 key skills that reflect what you want to be known for.
Think:
Social media marketing, Excel, Canva, project coordination, research, public speaking, data visualization, editing, event planning.
You can even ask your friends, classmates, or former coworkers to endorse you for them (and return the favor!).
Step 6: Connect Like a Pro (Without Feeling Weird)
If you feel awkward “adding” people on LinkedIn, remember: it’s literally what the platform is for.
Start with:
• Friends + classmates
• Professors and advisors
• Internship supervisors
• People you’ve met at events, panels, or career fairs
• Alumni from your school (the easiest conversation starter ever)
And when you send a connection request, include a short message like:
“Hi [Name], I’m a recent grad from [School] exploring roles in [Industry]. I really admire your career path and would love to connect!”
Short, sweet, and way more effective than the blank request.
Step 7: Don’t Just Lurk—Engage!
Want recruiters and connections to notice you? Start showing up on their feed.
Here’s what you can do:
• Share articles you find interesting
• Post about projects, internships, or what you’re learning
• Congratulate others on promotions or new jobs
• Comment on posts with thoughtful (not spammy) responses
You don’t have to post every day—just once in a while to stay visible and active.
Step 8: Let People Know You’re Job Hunting (Without Screaming It)
There’s a setting in your profile that lets recruiters know you’re open to opportunities—without alerting your whole network.
Go to your profile → Click “Open to Work” → Select “Recruiters only”
You can also list the types of roles you’re looking for, preferred locations (or remote), and start date. It makes it so much easier for people to find you.
Mini LinkedIn Glow-Up Checklist:
• Clear profile pic that looks like you (bonus points for a smile)
• Eye-catching headline that shows your vibe
• About section that reads like you, not a resume bot
• Experience section with impact-driven bullet points
• Skills list that reflects your strengths
• Connection list that’s growing every week
• You’re liking, posting, and commenting once a week (ish)
Real Talk Before You Hit Publish…
LinkedIn isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about showing off who you already are—a capable, creative, hard-working, kind human who’s ready to contribute.
It’s okay if it’s not perfect. It’s okay if you tweak it as you grow. The point is to start.
Because the right people? The ones who see your potential? They’re on LinkedIn, too.
And now, they’ll be able to see you.
