Skip to content
SolutionsCareer
Career1,870 views

My LinkedIn profile is terrible and I need it for job hunting

A LinkedIn profile overhaul guide covering headline optimization, summary writing, experience formatting, and networking strategies to attract recruiters.

The Problem

My LinkedIn profile has a blurry photo, a headline that just says my job title, and an empty summary section. I need to start job hunting but my profile looks like I created it in 2014 and never touched it. I see other people with polished profiles and I don't know how they do it. I'm not good at self-promotion and writing about myself feels cringey.

The Plan

Week 1: Fix the Basics

  • Get a professional-looking headshot: good lighting, plain background, shoulders up, genuine smile — phone camera is fine
  • Rewrite your headline: not just your title, but your value. "Marketing Manager | Helping B2B brands grow through content strategy" beats "Marketing Manager at Company X"
  • Write a summary (About section) in first person: who you are, what you do, what you're looking for. 3-4 short paragraphs max
  • Add a banner image — Canva has free LinkedIn banner templates
  • Make sure your location, industry, and contact info are current
  • Week 2: Optimize Your Experience

  • For each role, write 3-5 bullet points focused on RESULTS, not responsibilities
  • Use numbers: "Increased email open rates by 35%" not "Managed email campaigns"
  • Add skills (aim for 20+) and ask 5 colleagues to endorse your top ones
  • Request 2-3 recommendations from people you've worked with — these carry serious weight
  • Turn on "Open to Work" (visible to recruiters only) if you're job hunting
  • Resources

  • LinkedIn's own profile optimization guide — search "LinkedIn profile tips" on their blog
  • Canva — free LinkedIn banner templates
  • r/linkedin — profile review community
  • Austin Belcak (LinkedIn creator) — excellent free content on profile optimization
  • Follow-Up Result

    Pending
    Ask Neady Your Problem →

    Know someone with this problem?

    Share this solution. They get $5 off their first plan.