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Module 4: LinkedIn + Resume

Module Overview

In this module, you will complete your LinkedIn profile optimization and learn how to create a professional resume that effectively showcases your skills and experience. You'll discover strategies for highlighting your technical background and making your profile stand out to recruiters and hiring managers.

Learning Objectives

LinkedIn Profile Optimization

Learn how to build and optimize your LinkedIn profile for job searching.

Building a Strong LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression potential employers have of you. A well-optimized profile increases your visibility to recruiters and showcases your skills effectively.

Key elements of an optimized LinkedIn profile:

  • Professional Photo: Clear, professional headshot with good lighting and appropriate attire
  • Headline: More than just a job title - include key skills and your value proposition
  • About Section: Compelling summary of your professional background, skills, and career goals
  • Experience: Detailed descriptions of your work experience with accomplishments and metrics
  • Skills & Endorsements: Relevant technical and soft skills aligned with your target roles
  • Recommendations: Professional endorsements from colleagues and supervisors
  • Education: Academic credentials and relevant courses or certifications

Example LinkedIn Headline

Software Developer | Java | Spring Boot | React | AWS | Seeking Backend Developer Opportunities

Example About Section

Full-stack developer with a passion for building scalable web applications and microservices. Recent graduate of BloomTech's intensive software engineering program with hands-on experience in Java, Spring Boot, and React. I specialize in creating efficient backend systems and RESTful APIs that power intuitive user experiences.

My background in [previous experience/education] has equipped me with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. I'm eager to contribute to a collaborative team where I can continue to grow while delivering valuable solutions.

Technical skills: Java, JavaScript, Spring Boot, React, AWS, Docker, Git, SQL, MongoDB

Open to opportunities in backend development, full-stack roles, and software engineering positions.

Adding profile section content to your LinkedIn profile.

LinkedIn Optimization Tips

  • Use Keywords: Include relevant technical skills and industry terminology throughout your profile to improve searchability
  • Showcase Projects: Add links, screenshots, or GitHub repositories to demonstrate your work
  • Be Active: Regularly share industry content, participate in discussions, and engage with your network
  • Customize Your URL: Create a personalized LinkedIn URL with your name
  • Request Recommendations: Ask colleagues, instructors, or managers for specific, skill-focused recommendations

Adding recommended profile content to your LinkedIn profile.

Adding additional profile content to your LinkedIn profile.

Resources

Resume Building

Learn how to write a compelling About section for your LinkedIn profile.

Crafting an Effective Technical Resume

Your resume is a critical tool in your job search. It should concisely highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements in a way that aligns with the roles you're targeting.

Essential components of a strong technical resume:

  • Contact Information: Name, phone, email, location, LinkedIn profile, and GitHub profile
  • Professional Summary: Brief overview of your experience, skills, and career goals
  • Technical Skills: Categorized list of programming languages, frameworks, tools, and technologies
  • Projects: Detailed descriptions of relevant projects with technologies used and outcomes
  • Work Experience: Professional roles with accomplishment-focused bullet points
  • Education: Degrees, bootcamps, and relevant certifications

ATS-Friendly Resume Strategies

Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they reach human reviewers. Here's how to optimize your resume for ATS:

  • Use Standard Sections: Include clearly labeled sections like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills"
  • Incorporate Keywords: Include relevant keywords from the job description
  • Simple Formatting: Use standard fonts, avoid tables, columns, and graphics
  • File Format: Submit as a PDF or Word document as specified in the application
  • Avoid Headers/Footers: Some ATS struggle with text in headers and footers

See an example of a well-built LinkedIn profile.

Example Technical Skills Section

Programming Languages: Java, JavaScript, Python, SQL, HTML, CSS
Frameworks/Libraries: Spring Boot, React, Node.js, Express
Tools & Technologies: Git, GitHub, AWS, Docker, MongoDB, PostgreSQL
Methodologies: Agile/Scrum, CI/CD, Test-Driven Development

Example Project Description

E-Commerce Platform | Java, Spring Boot, React, PostgreSQL

  • Developed a full-stack e-commerce application with secure user authentication and product management
  • Implemented RESTful API with Spring Boot for inventory management and order processing
  • Created responsive UI with React and Material-UI, improving mobile user experience by 35%
  • Deployed application using AWS EC2 and RDS for scalable infrastructure

Resume Writing Tips

  • Quantify Achievements: Use metrics and numbers to demonstrate impact
  • Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs (Developed, Implemented, Optimized)
  • Tailoring: Customize your resume for each application to highlight relevant skills
  • Length: Keep to 1-2 pages maximum, prioritizing recent and relevant experience
  • Proofreading: Eliminate spelling and grammatical errors through careful review

Resources