Your profile online is the first thing recruiters will know about you. So setting up your resume just right will put you on the right path to creating that great first impression and, of course, getting a job interview. Priscila Assumpção, a profile reviewer, interview advisor, and instructor for our Premium Academy, got together (virtually) with current members for an exclusive workshop. She discussed what it takes to have a fantastic profile that makes you stand out in the crowd and maximize your chances of getting that job interview.
Professional profiles are crucial because they instantly reveal to a hiring manager or recruiter the experience and strengths you have to execute the open position’s tasks effectively – obvious, right? Well, not so evident as it seems to be! The reason our VanHack Premium Academy offered this workshop: to help our members create a killer, impressive, outstanding professional profile and stand out from the crowd.
So here it goes, 5 tips to help you double the chances of getting a job interview:
Tip #1 – Look friendly and professional in your profile picture
When recruiters look at you, what do you want them to see? For your profile picture, choose a photo that shows your face clearly, it should take around half of the frame. Next, choose a discreet background and make sure you are looking at the camera. If you need glasses, avoid sunglasses, hats, or other accessories that cover your face. The final touch is looking friendly. As Priscilla puts it “a smile or a hint of a smile can go a long way”.
Tip #2 – Show enthusiasm when you talk about your career
If you are serious about getting the job interview, you want recruiters to notice that right away. The “tell me about yourself” video is a fantastic opportunity to put your best foot forward by showcasing your skills, talking about your career and goals, and displaying enthusiasm. A quick list of what to pay attention to when recording the video would be:
- Look professional
- Check framing, background, lighting, and sound
- Share your name
- Highlight your professional title, experience, and main tech
- Share achievements and unique selling points
- Tell them why you are passionate about your work, who you want to help
Want more tips on how to nail your video presentation? Click here
Tip #3 -Tell the world you are open to relocation
When companies read your profile, they will be much more likely to invite you to a job interview if they understand you are able and willing to relocate. So, fill out all the options on your VanHack profile and be sure to select what you are interested in (relocating, working remotely, or both). Don’t forget to tell us your preferred locations. You can also specify your first choice and your status in terms of visas for different countries.
Check out more tips on how to improve your profile.
Tip #4 – Add all the extra information that helps companies know you better
Don’t leave any relevant information out. The more detailed your profile is, the greater your chances of getting the job interview. Make sure to include:
- Licenses and certifications – show recruiters you are investing in continued learning.
- English Verification – it’s a mandatory step in your hiring process. Complete your verification so you don’t miss out on any opportunity.
- Code Challenges – the challenges are a unique tool in our platform to help you showcase your programming and problem-solving skills.
Learn everything you need to know about the Code Challenges here.
Tip #5 – Highlight achievement and progression
Priscilla reminds candidates to pay attention to organizing the experience section in their profile. Please make it so that it tells the story of your career growth. If you are looking for a more senior position, you improve your chances of getting the job interview if recruiters understand your career path. And even if you don’t feel like you are climbing the leader just yet, make sure to show how you are working and investing in yourself. “Be careful with the dates, and if there is a gap, it is interesting to put something there. For example, I saw this great profile once that the candidate filled the time gap that was her maternity leave with interesting skills that she used during that time like the ability to organize and to relate to others”, Priscilla explains.
Bonus tip – Focus on impact over outcome
When discussing your experience, simply stating your responsibilities gives the recruiter no context as to whether you achieved your goals. Therefore, you should focus on the impact on outcomes.
Let Premium Academy help you
Are you ready to get that job interview that will kick start your international career? Either way, we are here to help you every step of the way.
VanHack’s Premium Academy offers profile review and interview preparation classes, among other special extra content, like this exclusive workshop, masterclasses, and more.
Academy members have experts review their professional profiles. LinkedIn’s data shows candidates with an improved profile are around 30% more likely to be hired.
Subscribers also have the opportunity to get hands-on practice with all the most common questions and situations you might get in a job interview. It’s a great way to learn how to ace an interview and improve English skills simultaneously.
Check out more:
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VANHACK, LinkedIn Talent Awards Winner 2021, is Canada’s most respected recruitment company. With more than 1,500 hires, VanHack is on a mission of increasing diversity and creating a borderless world. So if you are a software developer looking for a job abroad, in Canada, the US, or Europe, join VanHack today. 100% free for candidates, plus you will get all the preparation you need when your profile is shortlisted.
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