OK, so you’ve made your LinkedIn profile, chosen a decent headshot and you’re ready to dig right in to the job search. But wait… what’s that section underneath your previous jobs? Do you need to fill that in, too? And how? 

The ‘skills’ section of LinkedIn and an old-fashioned CV is often neglected. We assume it’s less important than getting in all our past experience and our recommendations or simply chuck in the classic ‘proficient in Excel’ (even if our Excel spreadsheet knowledge extends to colour-coding a column).

Ignoring this opportunity to shout about your talents is a mistake, says Bernard Marr, an expert in the world of business and technology. “In today’s digital age, showcasing your technology skills on your LinkedIn profile is crucial to demonstrate your proficiency and adaptability in the rapidly evolving job market,” he tells Stylist. 

But what skills should we be highlighting? And how should we be showcasing them? Marr breaks it down. 

“Strong communication skills are crucial in today’s interconnected world,” notes Marr; but remember to show as well as tell. 

“Showcase your written and verbal communication abilities by creating well-crafted posts, responding thoughtfully to comments and sharing compelling stories on LinkedIn,” he adds.

In an ever-changing work landscape, everyone appreciates someone who’s genuinely able to adapt to any situation. 

“Demonstrate your adaptability by talking about how you can navigate changes in your industry, learn new technologies, and embrace new ideas,” Marr suggests. “In your posts and stories, share examples of how you’ve successfully pivoted in your career or adjusted to new situations.”

Great at resolving issues? Stick problem-solving in your list of skills and ask employers or colleagues to endorse this on LinkedIn with specific examples. 

You can highlight this further through your posts on the platform. Could you share the challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them? “Offer insights and lessons learned, and don’t be afraid to discuss your thought process or the strategies you used when tackling professional issues,” Marr suggests. 

“Show your ability to work effectively with others by highlighting team projects, articles you co-authored with other experts or group presentations,” Marr recommends. “Tag your collaborators and give credit where it’s due to emphasise your commitment to teamwork and partnership.”

Definitely add ‘creativity’ to your skills section, then back it up by creating posts highlighting your work. 

“Let your creativity shine through by sharing unique solutions, innovative ideas or artistic pursuits relevant to your industry,” Marr tells us. “This not only demonstrates your ability to think outside the box but also adds a personal touch to your professional persona.”

Marr adds: “Emphasise your emotional intelligence by showcasing your ability to empathise with others, manage your emotions and build strong relationships. Share stories of mentorship, collaboration or personal growth to illustrate your emotional maturity and interpersonal skills.”

Bernard Marr is a world-renowned futurist, influencer, author and thought leader in the fields of business and technology. His new book Future Skills: The 20 Skills And Competencies Everyone Needs To Succeed in A Digital World (Wiley, £18.99) is out now.  

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