3 Effective methods to research high-impact keywords
And build your SEO optimized LinkedIn profile
There’s no question about it: getting the right keywords into your LinkedIn profile can make or break your visibility to recruiters.
If you’re aiming for executive roles, this isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
The fact is, LinkedIn operates more like a search engine than a social network, and recruiters are using its advanced tools to zero in on profiles that match precise keywords.
That’s why knowing how to find the right ones for your desired industry isn’t just smart; it’s mandatory.
Here are three proven methods to uncover the keywords that will set your profile apart.
1. Reverse Engineer Job Descriptions
Let me be clear: job postings aren’t just listings—they’re keyword treasure maps. The language used in these descriptions directly reflects what recruiters are searching for.
Start by collecting 10 to 15 job descriptions for the roles you’re targeting.
Highlight repeated phrases, specific skills, and industry terms.
For example, if you’re an executive in SaaS, terms like "customer acquisition cost optimization," "subscription model scaling," or "enterprise SaaS solutions" might crop up repeatedly.
These are gold and need to appear throughout your LinkedIn profile, especially in your headline, About section, and Experience descriptions.
Pro Tip:
Don’t limit yourself to just titles and generic skills.
Look for actionable metrics recruiters value, like:
“Drove 30% revenue growth.”
“Managed $100M P&L.”
These specific terms are magnetic to LinkedIn’s algorithm and headhunters alike.
2. Tap Into LinkedIn’s Own Tools
Few professionals realize LinkedIn itself is an incredible keyword research tool.
The platform provides features like the Skills section and Skills Insights that highlight which skills are trending within your industry.
Here’s how to use it:
Search for leaders or peers in your field with job titles you’re aspiring to.
Analyze their profiles—especially the Skills, Experience, and About sections—to uncover repeated terms.Use LinkedIn’s auto-suggestions when adding skills to your profile.
Start typing a relevant word like “supply chain” or “strategy,” and LinkedIn will show you the most searched variations.
This method leverages LinkedIn’s database to guide you toward high-impact keywords recruiters are actively searching for.