In the fast-paced world of the built environment, staying relevant is key—not just in terms of your skills and projects, but also in how you present yourself professionally. Recently, we conducted a LinkedIn poll asking professionals in our industry how often they update their CV or LinkedIn profile. Here’s what we found:
These results highlight that while many professionals recognise the value of keeping their profiles up to date, half of respondents still only update them when actively searching for a job. This approach could result in missed opportunities in today’s competitive market.
Showcasing Recent Achievements
By updating your profile after every project or annually, you ensure that your latest accomplishments and responsibilities are captured. Waiting until you’re job hunting might mean forgetting key details or missing out on potential connections who could be seeking someone with your expertise.
Staying Visible to Recruiters
Many recruiters and employers use platforms like LinkedIn to identify talent, often based on recent activity or keywords. Regular updates can boost your profile’s visibility and ensure you’re front of mind when opportunities arise.
Professional Growth and Reflection
Reviewing your CV periodically is an excellent way to reflect on your career progress. It can also help you identify any gaps in skills or experiences that you might want to address.
After Major Milestones
Add new projects, certifications, or promotions as they occur. Highlight measurable results (e.g., “Delivered a £2M project 10% under budget”).
Annually or Biannually
Even if you’re not actively job hunting, set a reminder to update your profile. Include any new responsibilities, tools you’ve mastered, or significant achievements.
Optimise for Keywords
Use industry-specific keywords and phrases to ensure your profile is discoverable. This is especially important for LinkedIn, as it’s heavily searched by recruiters.
Leverage Recommendations
After completing projects, ask for recommendations from colleagues or clients. These can enhance your credibility and highlight your skills.
Keep Your Style Consistent
Ensure your tone and formatting are professional and aligned with your personal brand. This applies to both your CV and LinkedIn profile.
Whether you’re actively job hunting or simply maintaining your professional presence, staying proactive about your CV and LinkedIn profile is essential. Our poll suggests that while many in the industry are reactive, there’s a growing recognition of the value of regular updates. Don’t wait until you’re looking for your next role—keep your profile ready for opportunities as they come.
Thinking of making your next move, talk to one of our team today.
Tags: Advice CV
