Setting up your LinkedIn Profile

      So, you’re ready to build a LinkedIn profile—great choice! A strong profile helps you stand out to employers, grow your professional network, and access new job opportunities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of creating a LinkedIn profile that works for you.

      By the way, before we dive in, if you aren't sure about what LinkedIn is or it's benefits, check out our earlier blog on how to leverage linkedin for professional development. 

      Start with a Professional Photo

      Your profile photo is the first thing people see. Choose a clear, friendly headshot with good lighting. You don’t need professional photography—a smartphone works fine as long as the photo is:

      • Focused on your face (shoulders and up)

      • In front of a clean background

      • Friendly and confident

      Tip: Wear something you’d wear to an interview in your industry.

      Write a Strong Headline

      Your headline appears under your name and gives people a quick idea of who you are. This can be your current job, your industry, or a career goal.

      Examples:

      • "Aspiring Food Safety Manager | ServSafe Certified"

      • "Retail Associate with 3+ Years of Customer Service Experience"

      • "Warehouse and Logistics Specialist | Seeking New Opportunities"

      Craft a Compelling “About” Section

      This is your chance to tell your story. Think of it as your elevator pitch—short, friendly, and to the point. In 3–5 sentences, describe:

      • Who you are

      • What you’re passionate about

      • What you’re looking for

      Example:

      I’m a motivated team player with experience in retail and food service. I love working in fast-paced environments and helping customers have a great experience. I’m currently expanding my skills through Union Kitchen’s Career Development Program and am excited to grow my career in the food and hospitality industry.

      List Your Experience

      This section is just like your resume. Add your work history, starting with the most recent:

      • Job title

      • Company name

      • Dates worked

      • A few bullet points about your responsibilities and achievements

      Use action verbs like “led,” “supported,” “prepared,” or “organized.”

      If you're just starting out, include volunteer experience, internships, or anything that shows responsibility and skill.

      Add Your Education and Certifications

      Include:

      • High school or GED

      • College or training programs

      • Certifications like ServSafe, food handler licenses, forklift training, or others

      If you’re currently enrolled in a program, include that too.

      Highlight Your Skills

      LinkedIn lets you list up to 50 skills—focus on your strongest ones. These might include:

      • Customer service

      • Food prep

      • Inventory management

      • Microsoft Excel

      • Teamwork

      • Leadership

      Your contacts can endorse these skills, which boosts your credibility.

      Ask for Recommendations

      A short recommendation from a former coworker, manager, or mentor can go a long way. It shows that other people value your work. Just ask someone you trust if they’d be willing to write a quick sentence or two.

      Final Tips

      • Keep it updated – Add new jobs, skills, and training as you go.

      • Proofread – Make sure there are no typos or grammar errors.

      • Be active – Like posts, follow companies, or join industry groups to stay engaged.

      You're Ready to Go!

      Setting up your LinkedIn profile is one of the best ways to take control of your job search and long-term career. With a professional profile, employers can find you, learn about your skills, and see that you’re ready to grow.

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