How to Use to Attract Opportunities (Not Just Apply for Jobs)

Most graduates treat LinkedIn like a job board—something to scroll through when you’re desperate, or to use when you’re firing off applications. But LinkedIn is so much more than that. Used right, it’s a platform that can attract opportunities to you—whether that’s job offers, freelance clients, partnerships, or mentorships.

Here’s how to build a presence that gets noticed, even if you’re just starting out.

1. Craft a Headline That Highlights What You Do

Avoid headlines like “Recent Graduate” or “Job Seeker.” Instead, focus on what you actually offer, even if you’re still early in your journey.

Example:

Marketing Graduate | Helping small brands grow through TikTok strategy | Building my first agency

This shows your skill, target audience, and drive.

2. Write an ‘About’ Section That Tells a Story

This is your space to introduce yourself as a person, not just a job title. Start with something that hooks interest, then explain:

• What you’re passionate about

• What you’re currently working on or learning

• What kind of opportunities you’re open to

Write it in the first person. Keep it clear, confident, and real.

3. Post Content Regularly (Even Once a Week Is Enough)

You don’t have to go viral. You just need to show up.

Here are three post types to start with:

• Share something you’re currently learning or building

• Reflect on a recent experience, challenge, or lesson

• Ask your network a question relevant to your field or interests

Consistency builds visibility, and visibility creates opportunity.

4. Be Active Before and After You Post

Spend 10 to 15 minutes engaging with others—liking, commenting, and replying. This increases the reach of your own posts and helps you connect with people in your space.

The algorithm rewards those who participate in the platform, not just those who publish content.

5. Use the ‘Featured’ Section to Highlight Your Work

If you’ve built something—a portfolio, side project, case study, blog, or even a class assignment—add it to your Featured section. It becomes instant proof of your skills.

Link to external content where possible: Google Drive, Notion, websites, articles, or visual work.

6. Add Strategic Keywords Across Your Profile

Recruiters and collaborators use the search bar to find people. Make sure the right keywords show up in your:

• Headline

• Job titles or projects

• Skills section

• About section

Think like someone searching for a person with your skills.

7. Make It Easy to Contact You

Always include a contact method—either in your About section, your profile banner, or your featured links. Whether it’s your email, website, or a “DMs open” statement, don’t make people guess how to reach out.

Final Thoughts

Stop thinking of LinkedIn as a place where you apply for opportunities. Start thinking of it as a place where you attract them. Show what you’re working on. Share your progress. Start conversations. Opportunities tend to show up when people know what you’re about—and that starts with being visible.