When job searchers include multiple roles in their LinkedIn headline, they may have several thoughts or motivations driving this decision - they might believe that highlighting multiple roles demonstrates their versatility and broad skill set, making them attractive to a wider range of employers or they might fear that focusing on one role will limit their opportunities and believe that keeping options open will lead to more job offers.
The problem with this strategy is that trying to appeal to everyone often leads to appealing to no one.
I have seen LinkedIn headlines with multiple roles, such as "Project Manager, Classroom Teacher, Science Guru!" This can be confusing to recruiters and potential employers. While it might seem like showcasing versatility or casting a wide net is a good strategy, it often leads to recruiters skipping away from your profile.
Of course, that is not what we want!
Professionals at mid-career are capable of achieving success in multiple roles. By now, we have significant amount of experience and interests. This can lead to the temptation to highlight all possible roles in a LinkedIn profile, hoping to stand out or impress potential employers.
But doing so leads to delays in securing your next role.
It is most important to pinpoint what you truly want to do and focus on that. Clarity in career goals can help you direct your efforts and present a cohesive professional narrative.
Targeted LinkedIn Profiles: Why They Work
When your LinkedIn profile is clear and targeted, it makes it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to understand your value proposition.
Suppose a candidate is looking for a digital marketing role. Review the two headline options below:
Digital Marketing Specialist | Expert in SEO & PPC | Content Strategist
Marketing Guru | Event Planner | Customer Service Enthusiast
The first headline is clear and focused, making it easy to understand the person’s expertise. The second headline, however, is scattered and confusing, leaving you uncertain about the individual’s primary professional focus.
Avoid the urge to address different experiences all at once. Keep in mind your headline doesn't have to be extraordinary. It just has to be clear, direct and targeted.
LinkedIn Headline for Job Seekers - Client Story
A few months ago, I worked with S on her job search. With over 18 years of experience, S was struggling to attract the right opportunities. When we started working together, she was reluctant to change her profile, which at that time highlighted multiple roles and was confusing to potential employers. S believed showcasing all her skills would make her more marketable.
After some back and forth and overcoming her resistance, S decided to focus on project management. Realizing her true passion, she refined her LinkedIn profile to reflect this new focus.
Despite initial doubts, S's targeted profile soon attracted recruiters. She secured a senior project manager role at a large consumer packaging company.
LinkedIn Headline Formula
There is no right or wrong way to write your headline as long as it is clear and focused. If you need a quick formula, try this:
Targeted Role| Primary Area of Expertise| Unique Value to Employers| Achievements/ Awards| Personal Mission or Belief (needs to be related to the targeted job!)
Example:
Senior Marketing Manager | Product Strategy Expert | New Market Growth & Adoption | 2024 Global Marketing Excellence Award | Customer-Centric Innovator
Conclusion
Take the time to reflect deeply on your career aspirations. Among all the possibilities, what is it that truly excites you? What tasks or roles fill you with passion and joy? It’s important to pinpoint what you genuinely want to pursue.
Once you have this clarity, get laser-focused on this goal.
This targeted approach will make your job search more effective, allowing you to stand out to potential employers who are looking for exactly what you offer.
By honing in on what you truly desire, you are setting yourself up for success. You got this!
Dorothy Mashburn is on a mission to help close the gender pay gap by helping women of color (and allies!) advance their careers and negotiate their value. If you need help with your job search, book a complimentary mini-coaching call here.
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