linkedin

Step 1: Create Your Profile (The Essentials) 

Think of your profile as your professional online portfolio. Don't worry about making it perfect from day one – you can always refine it!

• Professional Photo: This is crucial! Choose a clear, recent, headshot where you're smiling and looking approachable. Avoid selfies, group photos, or distracting backgrounds. Aim for a professional, yet friendly, appearance. If you'd like to schedule a time to complete a headshot with the Career Center, check out the link here. 

• Catchy Headline: This is the text right under your name. Instead of just "Student at [Your University]," make it more descriptive and forward-looking.

  • • Examples:

      • • "Computer Science Student | Aspiring Software Engineer | Seeking Summer 2026 Internships"

        • "Marketing Major | Passionate about Digital Marketing & Brand Strategy"

        • "Biology Student | Pre-Med | Volunteer at [Hospital Name]"

• "About" Section (Your Story): This is your chance to tell your professional story in your own words.

  • • What to include: Your major, career interests, key skills, relevant experiences (academic projects, extracurriculars, volunteer work), and what you're looking for (e.g., internships, networking).

    • Keep it concise: Aim for 2-4 paragraphs, highlighting your passions and goals. Use keywords related to your field.

Step 2: Populate Your Profile (Showcase Your Skills & Experience)

Now, let's fill in the details that make your profile shine.

• Education: List your university, degree, major, minor (if applicable), expected graduation date, and any relevant coursework, honors, or scholarships.

• Experience: This isn't just for paid jobs! Include:

  • • Internships: Clearly describe your responsibilities and achievements.

    • Research: If you've participated in academic research, either paid or volunteer, be sure to add it. Describe your role, the research topic, the methodologies used, and any findings or publications. 

    • Part-time jobs: Even if not directly career-related, highlight transferable skills (e.g., customer service, teamwork, problem-solving).

    • Volunteer Work: Demonstrates initiative and valuable skills.

    • Leadership Roles: In clubs, organizations, or student government.

    • Relevant Course Projects: Especially if they involved significant teamwork, problem-solving, or used specific software/skills.

• Skills: Add at least 5-10 relevant skills. These can be technical (e.g., Python, Adobe Photoshop) or soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, leadership). Your connections can endorse these, adding credibility.

• Accomplishments (Optional but Recommended):

  • • Projects: Link to your GitHub, portfolio, or a brief description of significant academic or personal projects.

    • Certifications: Any online courses or certifications you've completed (e.g., Google Analytics certification).

    • Publications/Presentations: If applicable.

Step 3: Start Connecting (Build Your Network)

Networking is key! Don't be shy.

• Start with Whom You Know:

  • • Classmates: Connect with your peers – they'll be your future colleagues!

    • Professors: They have vast networks and can provide valuable advice and recommendations.

    • Mentors: Anyone who has guided you academically or professionally.

• Search for Alumni: Use the "Alumni" tool on Eckerd's LinkedIn page. Filter by industry, location, or company. Many alumni are happy to connect and offer advice.

• When Connecting (Personalize!): Always add a personal note (even if brief) when sending a connection request, especially to someone you don't know well.

  • • Example for an Alumnus: "Hi [Name], I'm a current [Your Major] student at Eckerd College and saw your profile. I'm very interested in [their industry/role] and would love to connect and learn more about your career path. Thanks!"

• Follow Companies and Influencers: Follow companies you're interested in working for and thought leaders in your desired field. This keeps you updated on industry news and potential opportunities.

Step 4: Engage and Learn (Be Active!)

LinkedIn isn't just for building a profile; it's a living platform.

• Like, Comment, Share: Engage with posts that interest you. Share articles relevant to your field or comment thoughtfully on others' content. This increases your visibility.

• Post Updates: Share your academic achievements, projects you're working on, articles you found interesting, or insights from class. This helps build your personal brand.

• Join Groups: Search for professional groups related to your major, career interests, or university. These can be great places to find discussions, advice, and job postings.

• Utilize the Job Board: Regularly browse the "Jobs" section. Set up job alerts for internships and entry-level positions that match your criteria.

Remember: LinkedIn is an ongoing effort. Regularly update your profile, expand your network, and engage with content. The more you put into it, the more you'll get out of it! Good luck!