Representing your unique career path on your LinkedIn profile

Most career paths today are not linearSome people hold temporary roles, or move to new roles within the same company…

…or take time off, have gaps of unemployment, or change industries altogether

Our career paths are not meant to be simple, and the truth is, some of our most

trying career (and life) moments can teach us the

most.

Wherever your personal career journey has taken you,

figure out how to communicate that story to a potential

employer.

Scenario #1: Changing careers

It’s common to develop new interests throughout the course of your career, and

the secret to successfully doing so is learning how to articulate your rationale

to hiring managers.

When it comes to telling your career story, don’t be afraid to use humor and personality.

Scenario #2: Out of work for several years

Rather than focusing on why you have a long-term unemployment gap on your resume, emphasize your activities and accomplishments during this period.

Highlight the activities you pursued during your unemployment period

Scenario #3: Temporarily out of work

Most employers understand that short-term unemployment periods are natural, so stay confident and truthful when talking about it.

Showcase what you’ve accomplished during your unemployment

Scenario #4: At-home Periods (Parenting)

We are more than our careers, and many people make the decision to leave the workplace to raise their families.

Your resume is your story, so you don’t need to limit your accomplishments to the workplace.

Scenario #5: Part-time Positions

Part-time employment is a common scenario, and it’s best to be straightforward when addressing it on your profile.

Treat your part-time position just as you would a full-time position

Scenario #6: Multiple part-term Positions

If you have a string of short-term positions, bundle them into one large project on your LinkedIn

profile.

Organize your short-term positions into one larger umbrella project

Scenario #7: Temp-to-hire Positions

Landing a temporary position is a great way to work towards a

full-time role within the company.

If you are converted to a full-time hire, be proud! Make sure to indicate that you transitioned into a direct hire position from your temporary role.

Your career path is as unique as you are

By effectively positioning your career path on your LinkedIn profile, potential employers will better

understand your unique qualifications and accomplishments.

Discover more job search tips and insights at premium.linkedin.com/jobsearch/resources.html