How to Build a Resume From Your LinkedIn Profile
You can build a resume from LinkedIn by opening your profile, choosing the option to save it as a PDF or create a resume, and then editing the result. It's a quick first draft, but it mirrors your profile rather than the job you're applying for, so you'll want to tailor it.
LinkedIn moves its menu items around from time to time, so the exact labels may differ slightly from what you see. The steps below are the general route.
How do you create a resume from your LinkedIn profile?
There are two common ways:
- Save your profile as a PDF. On your profile page, look for the More button near your name, then choose Save to PDF. You get a document built from your profile sections.
- Use LinkedIn's resume option. On your profile, look under the Resources or More menu for a Build a resume option. It lets you pick a template and pull in your experience, education and skills.
Either route gives you something you can start from. Neither gives you something you should send as-is.
Why shouldn't you send the LinkedIn version straight away?
A few reasons:
- It's written for LinkedIn. Profiles are often more casual, in the first person, and padded with details for networking.
- It isn't tailored. The same text goes to every job. A good resume changes a few lines each time to fit the posting.
- It may include things you'd skip. Old jobs, long lists of endorsements and generic headlines don't help a recruiter.
- Formatting varies. Check that the PDF text is selectable and that headings are standard.
How do you turn the LinkedIn draft into a real resume?
- Copy out your job history. Titles, employers, dates. Check that they match your LinkedIn profile, because recruiters compare the two.
- Rewrite the summary. Cut it to two or three lines aimed at the job you want. See our step-by-step resume guide for how.
- Trim bullets. Keep three to five per recent job, each with a result.
- Add numbers. Profiles often skip metrics. Add them back if you remember them.
- Match the posting. Reuse words from the job description where they're true for you.
- Pick a clean layout. Paste your text into a simple resume builder, Word or Google Docs.
Should your resume and LinkedIn match?
The facts, yes: employers, titles, dates and degrees. The tone and detail can differ. Your resume is a one-page pitch. LinkedIn can be longer and more personal. If a recruiter notices that your dates don't line up, they may start to wonder why.
Does LinkedIn's "Easy Apply" use my resume?
On many job postings, you can apply with a resume you've uploaded. Keep your resume updated in the same place so you aren't sending an old one by accident. Check the screen before you submit, because the file shown is the file that gets sent.
FAQ
Can LinkedIn make a resume for me?
It can generate one from your profile in a few clicks. Treat that as a draft, then tailor it.
Is a LinkedIn PDF the same as a resume?
No. It's your profile in document form. It tends to be longer and less focused than a good resume.
How do I download my LinkedIn profile as a PDF?
On your profile, open the More menu near your name and choose Save to PDF. The wording can change, so look for similar options if you don't see it.
What should I do if my LinkedIn is out of date?
Update it first. It's the cheapest fix, and recruiters will look at it after they read your resume.
Is there a way to build a cover letter from LinkedIn too?
You can reuse your profile details in a cover letter builder, then adjust the opening lines for the company you're writing to.
Free to write and preview, no account needed.
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