Step 1
Use keywords not buzzwords. Have a look at the role for which you are applying and pay close attention to what they are asking for. Your profile should always be tailored for the role. What are the essential requirements and how would you persuade that person in the elevator that you are worth an hour of their time? Use the required skills or specific statements (often called keywords) in the context of your own experience instead of relying on generic phrases like “excellent communicator” or “good team player” which don’t really add anything.
Step 2
Keep it succinct and clear. Remember you are in that elevator, so you don’t have time to tell them everything. As we said, give just enough to spark their interest. In your profile this amounts to a few succinct sentences or a short paragraph, no more than 5 lines.
Step 3
Provide evidence. Wherever you can make sure you include a number, data, statistic to back up your claim. For example, instead of saying you have “managed people”, consider quantifying this further “7 years’ experience of managing international teams of <500” to add substance to your achievements.
Sometimes people replace the profile statement with bullet pointed key skills, which can also work well depending on your preference in terms of writing style.
Take a look at the following examples on the next page to help you with yours.
