The New Zealand IT job market is more competitive than ever, with fewer roles available and a growing number of talented professionals actively looking for work.
As recruiters, we see LinkedIn as a valuable tool for connecting with candidates who have the specific skillsets our clients need. So, if you’re in the market then it’s important to make sure your LinkedIn profile helps you to stand out.
Here are six essential steps to help you get the most out of LinkedIn, build stronger connections, and find new job opportunities.
1. Polish your profile to perfection
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital CV and often the first impression recruiters and hiring managers will have of you. To ensure it stands out:
- Profile photo: use a high-quality, professional photo. You don’t need to be in a suit, but aim for a polished, approachable look. Think “coffee catch-up ready” rather than “corporate boardroom.” If you’d like more guidance, LinkedIn has shared their own expert tips for taking a professional profile picture.
- Headline: go beyond your job title. Highlight your expertise or the type of roles you’re looking for. For example, “Experienced Software Developer | Passionate About Building Scalable Solutions.”
- Summary: write a clear and engaging summary. Focus on your experience, key skills, and what makes you unique. Use a friendly yet professional tone, and don’t be afraid to show a bit of your personality, we Kiwis appreciate authenticity!
- Experience and skills: ensure your work history is up to date, with concise but impactful descriptions of your roles. Add relevant skills and ask colleagues and previous teammates to endorse you.
2. Grow your network strategically
A strong network can significantly enhance your job search. Aim to connect with:
- Former and current colleagues – people who know your work well.
- Recruiters and hiring managers – especially those in your industry.
- Industry leaders – follow and connect with people who inspire you.
- Professional groups – join LinkedIn groups related to IT and tech in New Zealand and comment in discussions to increase your visibility.
Tip: When you send a connection request, personalise your message. A simple note explaining why you’d like to connect can go a long way.
3. Engage with content and build your presence
Staying active on LinkedIn helps keep you on recruiters’ radars. You can:
- Share industry news. Demonstrate your knowledge by sharing relevant articles and adding your insights.
- Create posts. Share your experiences, insights, or challenges you’ve overcome in your career. Don’t hesitate to weave in your experiences with local tech projects or initiatives.
- Engage with others. Comment thoughtfully on posts from your network or within groups, this builds your credibility.
4. Leverage the job search tools
LinkedIn has powerful job search features that you should make the most of:
- Job alerts: set up alerts for specific roles or companies you’re interested in.
- If appropriate, turn on the ‘Open to Work’ setting. You can choose to show this to recruiters only if you prefer discretion. Learn how to use this feature effectively with Linkedln’s official guide.
- Research companies: follow companies you’re interested in and engage with their content. This not only keeps you informed but can also catch the eye of their recruiters.
5. Build relationships with recruiters
As an IT recruitment agency, we know how valuable it can be to connect with recruiters directly. Introduce yourself via a message, share your career goals, and ask if they would be open to having a chat. When engaging with recruiters:
- Be open in your communication. Be transparent around what you’re looking for in a role and organisation and what your skills and experience are. Being clear about your job search helps build trust and lays the foundation for a strong professional connection
- Keep your profile updated so recruiters get a clear picture of your latest skills and experience, making it easier to connect you with the right opportunities.
- Stay responsive – if a recruiter contacts you about a role that aligns with your experience, we encourage you to connect. It helps establish a professional connection and increases your chances of being considered for future roles.
6. Stay consistent and patient
Job hunting takes time, especially in a competitive market. Stay active, keep your profile updated, and continue engaging with your network. Consistency will help keep you visible to the right people.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool, but it’s just one part of a successful job search strategy. If you’re looking for more personalised support, our team is here to help. We specialise in connecting IT professionals with roles that align with their skills and career goals.
If you haven’t already, connect with us on LinkedIn to stay updated with job openings, market insights, and practical career advice.