When you apply for jobs in Dubai your LinkedIn profile and CV play different roles. The better you understand how to use these tools the more effective you'll be.
Think of it like this; you wouldn't use a spoon to cut a steak, nor would you use a steak knife to eat your soup. If you know how to use your job search tools in the right way, you'll be more effective.
Your CV is like your sniper rifle, it's the tool you use to hit a specific target. Your CV is the surgical tool that you pick up when you see the perfect job.
The ideal CV is concise, showcasing specific experience, qualifications and achievements. It's your means of addressing an employers specific needs and requirements.
Every job role and every employer has difference needs and requirements. This means you need to adapt your CV for each application.
Think of it like editing a film. Your job as editor is to tell your professional story in the most relevant and effective way.
All good editors know how to remove elements that do not serve the story. They also know how to elevate and highlight what is crucial to the narrative.
Your CV is your one chance to show the reader that you are the answer they've been searching for.
You need to remove superfluous content that isn't relevant to the role, no matter how proud you are of it. Then, shine a light on your most relevant experiences and successes.
Your LinkedIn profile is different, it should be more autobiographical. Your LinkedIn is your digital portfolio highlighting your career journey, strengths, and accomplishments.
It's also your means of presenting your personal brand to a wide audience. LinkedIn is the tool you use to advertise yourself and draw some attention.
Another way to think of your LinkedIn profile is like a shop window. Take a walk through Dubai Mall and notice the effort that stores go to get the attention of shoppers.
Use your LinkedIn profile to do the same thing, attract the attention of potential buyers. Every day, hundreds of Dubai recruiters and hiring managers are browsing LinkedIn. When they see an interesting profile they step in to take a closer look.
A dynamic headline, professional headshot and interesting banner will help you grab attention.
Unlike your CV, you won't often change the content of your LinkedIn profile. Instead use the social aspect of LinkedIn to engage your network and employers.
CV: Be specific and include only the most relevant information for the job you’re applying for.
LinkedIn: You have more space to elaborate. Present a detailed, well-rounded picture of your career and personality.
CV: Pitch your CV at a senior level. Keep the language professional and direct.
LinkedIn: Be more conversational. Use the About section to show a little personality. But don't go to far, LinkedIn is still a professional networking site.
CV: Customise your CV based on the specific job listing. Highlight keywords and tailor your experience to match each job description.
LinkedIn: Content remains static on the whole. Communicate your broader career aspirations rather than focusing on one specific role.
CV: Include detailed, measurable achievements. Use figures and metrics to show your impact.
LinkedIn: Use general terms for public consumption. For example “multimillion-dollar budget” instead of "$2M budget".
CV: Keep it streamlined and leave out anything that isn't relevant.
LinkedIn: There’s more space to show the full picture. Add awards, certifications, and volunteer experiences. This enhances your personal brand and demonstrates on going professional development.
Your CV and LinkedIn must align on key facts like job titles, dates, and qualifications. Inconsistencies raise red flags for employers. Both tools must tell the same fundamental story.
By differentiating your CV from your LinkedIn profile, you create a multi-dimensional toolkit. A toolkit that markets you to specific employers and a wider professional network.
This dual approach will help you stand out when applying for vacancies in Dubai's job market.
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