Sending a CV or resume to a recruiter or hiring manager via LinkedIn message can be an effective way to get your qualifications in front of the right people during a job search. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to send your CV in a LinkedIn message:
1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
Before sending your CV, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and represents you in the best possible light. Include all relevant work experiences, skills, accomplishments, education, certifications, volunteer work, publications, honors and awards. Having an optimized profile allows recruiters to quickly assess if you may be a good fit for an open position.
2. Customize Your CV
Tailor your CV specifically for each job application. Read the job description closely and highlight keywords, skills and qualifications they are looking for. Then tweak your CV to showcase how your background aligns with their needs. You want to make it easy for the hiring manager to see you have what they are seeking.
3. Find the Right Connection
Do some research to identify the best person to send your CV to at the company. This could be an HR manager, internal recruiter, hiring manager for the specific role, or someone in your professional network who could pass your CV along. Look for 2nd and 3rd degree connections on LinkedIn who can introduce you to the right people.
4. Craft a Personalized Message
Your message should be professional and customized for the recipient. Address them by name and explain why you are reaching out to them specifically. Let them know you have applied for a certain position or are interested in opportunities at the company. Share 1-2 sentences on why you are a great fit. Then politely ask if they would have a few minutes to review your attached CV.
5. Attach Your CV File
Upload your tailored CV document in PDF format when composing the LinkedIn message. PDF retains formatting best and is the preferred file type of most recruiters and hiring managers. Double check that you have attached the correct version of your CV before sending.
6. Follow Up
If you do not receive a response within 1 week, it is appropriate to follow up. Send another message politely checking in on the status of your application and restating your interest in the role and company. However, avoid aggressively following up multiple times, which can have a negative effect.
7. Customize Your Message for Each Recipient
Copying and pasting the same generic message to multiple people comes across as spammy. Take the time to customize each note with specific details on why you are reaching out to that particular individual and how you are a great fit for that company or position.
8. Double Check for Typos
Proofread your message and CV thoroughly before sending to check for any spelling or grammar errors. These mistakes can undermine the professionalism of your application. Ask someone else to review as a second set of eyes.
9. Follow Up Politely
If you do not get a response after about a week, it is reasonable to follow up once. Send another message checking in politely and restating your interest in opportunities. However, avoid aggressively following up multiple times, which tends to have a negative effect.
10. Customize for Mobile
Many recruiters and hiring managers will view your message and CV on their mobile devices. So make sure your CV formatting translates well to mobile screens. Use adequate white space, larger font sizes, clear headings and avoid dense blocks of text.
11. Showcase Transferable Skills
Even if you do not have direct experience in the role you are applying for, draw connections to how your skills and experience can transfer over. Look at the qualifications needed and highlight those you possess, even if they were gained in different roles or industries.
12. Keep Your CV Concise
Recruiters spend an average of just 7 seconds reviewing a resume. Keep your CV focused on the most relevant information and accomplishments to show you are qualified. Limit it to 1-2 pages if possible to increase the likelihood it will be read.
13. Use Numbers to Quantify Achievements
Including measurable results and numbers helps showcase the value you brought to past employers. For example, state how you “Increased sales by 30% over 2 years” instead of just “Increased sales.” Quantifying achievements makes your contributions more concrete.
14. Focus on User-Friendly Formatting
Avoid fancy fonts, colors, images, columns and other complicated formatting in your CV. Stick to simple, readable formatting that is easy on the recruiter’s eye. Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri in 11 or 12 point size.
15. Write a Strong Profile Summary
Your CV profile or summary section is prime space to “sell yourself” to an employer. Concisely highlight your most appealing qualifications, achievements, skills and experience. Tailor this section based on each application.
16. Showcase Industry Keywords
Research keywords commonly used in the particular industry and role you are applying for and incorporate them organically throughout your CV. This helps get your CV through automated tracking systems to land in front of recruiters.
17. Proofread for Errors
Carefully proofread your entire CV prior to sending to check for any spelling, grammar or formatting errors. These types of mistakes can reflect poorly on your attention to detail. Ask someone else to review it with fresh eyes as well.
18. Align with Job Description
Compare the requirements and qualifications listed in the job description line-by-line with the highlights in your CV. Customizing your CV to match the job description as closely as possible increases your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
19. Send as a PDF
Always send your CV as a PDF when sharing via email or LinkedIn. PDF retains all original formatting and is the file type most preferred by recruiters and hiring managers. Sending as a Word document risks formatting issues.
20. Keep it Brief
Avoid overly lengthy CVs if possible, as extended profiles may not be fully read or may get screened out by applicant tracking systems. Focus on your most relevant experiences and accomplishments. Save less pertinent details for the interview stage.
By following these tips, you can craft an effective LinkedIn message and polished CV that will represent you in the best light possible to prospective employers. Sending your CV directly via LinkedIn to the right people can help get your foot in the door and land you that next great job opportunity.