Can LinkedIn Make a Resume? The Straight Dope from a Career Insider

Yes, LinkedIn can definitely help you create a resume, and in some cases, even generate a basic one for you. However, simply exporting your LinkedIn profile as is and calling it a resume is a shortcut that can backfire. Think of LinkedIn as the raw materials – the lumber, nails, and blueprint – and your resume as the finely crafted piece of furniture built from those materials. You need to shape, refine, and target that raw material for each specific job application.

The Allure of LinkedIn as a Resume Generator

Let’s be honest. The thought of a ready-made resume pulled from your LinkedIn profile is incredibly appealing. We’re all busy, and the process of tailoring a resume can feel tedious. LinkedIn understands this. That’s why they offer features that allow you to download your profile data. However, the problem lies in the execution.

The standard “download as PDF” option creates a functional document, sure, but it’s rarely optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) or for grabbing the attention of a hiring manager drowning in applications. A generic LinkedIn download lacks the crucial tailoring and strategic storytelling that turns a good resume into a great resume.

Why a Direct LinkedIn Download Falls Short

Here’s where things get real. A straight download from LinkedIn usually suffers from several key shortcomings:

• Lack of Targeted Keywords: LinkedIn encourages you to use broad keywords to increase your visibility. Resumes, however, need to be laser-focused on the specific keywords used in each job description.
• Unoptimized Formatting: ATS systems, which many companies use to screen applications, can struggle with the formatting of a downloaded LinkedIn profile. Tables, columns, and unusual fonts can throw the system off, causing your resume to be rejected before a human even sees it.
• Missing Context and Accomplishments: LinkedIn summaries tend to be more descriptive than results-oriented. A strong resume highlights your achievements and quantifies your impact wherever possible. Simply listing your responsibilities isn’t enough.
• Inconsistent Tone and Voice: LinkedIn often adopts a more conversational tone. Resumes, while still reflecting your personality, should maintain a professional and concise style.
• Inadequate Tailoring: This is the biggest pitfall. A generic resume screams “I didn’t bother to tailor this to your specific needs!” It shows a lack of interest and effort, immediately putting you at a disadvantage.

Leveraging LinkedIn for Resume Success

So, LinkedIn shouldn’t replace your resume creation process, but it can be a powerful tool within it. Here’s how to use LinkedIn to your advantage:

• Mining for Content: Treat your LinkedIn profile as a database of your career history. Review each role and extract key accomplishments, skills, and responsibilities. This provides a solid foundation for building targeted resume bullets.
• Keyword Research: Use LinkedIn job postings to identify the relevant keywords for your target roles. Pay attention to the skills and experience employers are actively seeking. Integrate these keywords naturally into your resume.
• Networking and Inspiration: Connect with professionals in your field and review their LinkedIn profiles and resumes (if publicly available). This can provide valuable insights into industry best practices and resume formatting.
• Seeking Endorsements and Recommendations: While endorsements and recommendations don’t directly translate to resume content, they reinforce your skills and credibility. Consider adding relevant quotes from recommendations to your resume.
• LinkedIn Resume Builder Tools (Use with Caution): LinkedIn does offer resume builder tools, but exercise caution. While these can help with formatting and organization, remember to heavily customize the generated content. Don’t rely solely on the automated output.

The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

The most effective strategy is to adopt a hybrid approach. Use LinkedIn to gather information, brainstorm accomplishments, and research keywords. Then, use a dedicated resume builder tool (or a well-formatted Word document) to craft a tailored and ATS-friendly resume. This allows you to leverage the power of LinkedIn while maintaining control over the final product.

The key takeaway? LinkedIn is a fantastic resource for building a strong resume, but it’s not a substitute for thoughtful creation and targeted tailoring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it ever okay to use a LinkedIn-generated resume as is?

Rarely. Only if you are applying for a very entry-level position where experience is less critical and the employer explicitly states they only need a basic overview. Even then, minor tailoring is recommended.

2. What are the best resume builder tools to use in conjunction with LinkedIn?

Consider tools like Resume.io, Kickresume, Zety, or even professional resume writing services. Many offer ATS-friendly templates and guidance.

3. How do I identify the right keywords for my resume?

Analyze job descriptions for your target roles. Look for skills, technologies, and industry-specific jargon that appear frequently. Also, use LinkedIn’s skills assessment feature to identify skills relevant to your field.

4. How long should my resume be?

Ideally, one page for early-career professionals and two pages for those with extensive experience. However, prioritize quality over brevity. If you need two pages to effectively showcase your accomplishments and qualifications, don’t hesitate to use them.

5. What format is best for a resume? (Chronological, Functional, or Combination)

Chronological is generally preferred, especially if you have a consistent work history. Functional focuses on skills, but can raise red flags. Combination is good if you want to highlight both skills and experience. Always consider the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for.

6. Should I include a photo on my resume?

Generally, no. In many countries, including the US, it’s considered inappropriate and can open the door to unconscious bias. Unless specifically requested, leave it off.

7. What’s the best font to use for a resume?

Opt for clean, professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, or Times New Roman. Avoid anything too fancy or difficult to read. Stick to a font size between 10 and 12 points.

8. How important is a cover letter?

Very important! A cover letter allows you to expand on your resume, showcase your personality, and explain why you’re specifically interested in the role and the company. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application.

9. How often should I update my resume?

Ideally, every time you gain a new skill, take on a new responsibility, or achieve a significant accomplishment. At a minimum, update it every six months, even if you’re not actively job searching.

10. What’s the difference between a resume and a CV?

In the US, a resume is typically a one- or two-page summary of your qualifications, while a CV (curriculum vitae) is a more comprehensive document that includes all of your academic and professional experience. CVs are more common in academic and research settings.

11. How can I make my resume ATS-friendly?

Use simple formatting, avoid tables and columns, use common fonts, and incorporate relevant keywords. Test your resume with an online ATS scanner to identify potential issues.

12. Should I pay for a professional resume writing service?

It can be a worthwhile investment if you’re struggling to create a compelling resume or if you’re targeting a high-level position. However, do your research and choose a reputable service with positive reviews. Ensure they offer personalized service and tailor your resume to your specific career goals. Remember, a great resume is an investment in your future.