When it comes to recruiters, they typically spend minimal time reviewing resumes, with some dedicating just three to five seconds or even less, as mentioned by former Disney recruiter Simon Taylor. However, contrary to this trend, recruiters seem to invest significantly more time perusing LinkedIn profiles. Former Amazon recruiter and current CEO of Talent Paradigm, Lindsay Mustain, reveals that she spends considerably more time, about 25 times longer, on LinkedIn profiles compared to resumes. She explains that LinkedIn offers a more comprehensive insight into a candidate's professional journey, not constrained by the limitations of a traditional resume.
Mustain emphasizes the significance of the "activity" section in a LinkedIn profile, located below the banner, picture, and title. This section showcases a candidate's posts and interactions on the platform, often capturing the attention of hiring managers even more than work experiences. Mustain suggests using this section to demonstrate your engagement in your field through posts that highlight problem-solving skills, opinions on industry challenges, or responses to industry-related discussions. By showcasing how you perceive and address issues in your industry, you can portray yourself as a proactive and forward-thinking professional, providing deeper insights into your personality and values beyond what a resume can convey.
While it's essential to enhance all components of your LinkedIn profile, including accurate work experiences, a professional photo, and a well-written summary, focusing on your activity section can differentiate you from other candidates. Mustain emphasizes the ease of standing out as a top candidate by leveraging this section effectively, showcasing a holistic view of yourself as a competent and engaged professional within your industry.