Eight LinkedIn tips to help students get a job

LinkedIn - are you on it yet? Well, you should be.

We're all in-the-know about keeping our profiles private and not complaining about work in a public space (unless you're asking to be fired). But what about promoting ourselves online?

Almost a quarter of everyone on LinkedIn is 18-29 years old - so that's a lot of students. So, whether you're a soon-to-be Graduate, or a first year looking to get ahead, here's some top tips to making you look like a top employee on LinkedIn. Remember, most recruiters out there use LinkedIn to find the best person for a job opportunity, so take notes...

1. Get a professional looking profile picture

This doesn't have to be a one taken on a fancy camera either.

As long as you're not on a night out, part of a group, or looking less than presentable, you should be okay. Black & White pictures can give you a hint of professionalism, too.

2. Write yourself a catchy headline...

If you're not employed in the field you're interested in yet, you can still include it. For example:

English Lit Student / Aspiring Editor
Economics Student Interested In Business Development

Let people know what you're looking for! If you already have a bit of experience, don't hesitate to showcase it either:

Experienced Engineer Looking For Opportunities

3. ...and the summary to match

LinkedIn gives you a helping hand here by drafting one for you based on your experience and interests.

But, if you want to write your own, include your experience, ambitions and key personality traits that make you a great employee - are you organised? Confident? Enthusiastic?

4. Fill out your experience - even if you haven't had a paid job

If your experience is made up of volunteer positions, writing for your Uni newspaper or being the Treasurer of your social club, include it.

Think about the responsibilities you had there, and how it relates to your current role. Did you meet deadlines? Organise events? Manage a budget?

5. Pick your top 10 skills

Think about the skills you're proudest of, and best at. Include something an employer might not necessarily see from your experience too.

You might be a Languages student who's great at Photoshop, or a Historian who knows how to code.

6. If you have an opinion or knowledge to share - share it!

Articles are a great way to show off your knowledge in your area of interest. Or maybe you run your own blog? Use LinkedIn to share your thoughts, and be recognised as an expert!

7. Connect with all the right people

Find the recruiters for your industry and connect with them. Or follow leaders from companies you're interested in or admire. Let people know who you are, so when the time comes to job hunt after graduation, you'll already be a familiar face.​