Digital Visibility — Making Online Spaces Work for You

You don’t have to be a social media expert but it helps to be seen.

Whether you’re returning to work, changing direction or just figuring things out, being visible online can open real doors.

This chapter blends practical LinkedIn guidance with alternative ways to build a professional presence, especially if you’re in creative, care or community work.

LinkedIn: Your Digital CV & Networking Space

You don’t need to be perfect.

You just need to show up in a way that’s clear and real.

Here’s what to check on your profile:

• Profile photo: Clear and friendly (nothing too formal)

• Headline: One sentence about what you do or want — e.g. “Aspiring Support Worker | Passionate About Community Care”

• About section: A short paragraph in your own voice — share your journey, what matters to you and where you’re headed

• Experience: Paid, unpaid, volunteer, caring roles — it all counts

• Skills: Pick 5–10 things you’re good at or known for

  
  

You can also use LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” setting to let employers know you’re available, either publicly or just to recruiters.

And if you’re not applying for jobs just yet?

That’s okay.

You can still connect, learn and grow your presence at your own pace.

Beyond LinkedIn: Other Ways to Build Your Career Presence

Not every career lives on LinkedIn and not everyone feels LinkedIn.

If you’re in creative, care-based or community-led work, try these:

1. TikTok

Perfect for:

• Sharing your journey in a real, human way

• Learning from others in short, bite-size videos

• Building trust and relatability over time

  
  

Use hashtags like #CareerTok, #WorkTips or field-specific ones like #AdminJobsUK to find your tribe.

2. Instagram

Ideal for:

• Creatives or service-based work; hair, nails, organizing and coaching

• Showing your style, work ethic or client results

• Casual updates and visual storytelling

  
  

Think of it as your portfolio with personality.

3. Facebook

Still useful for:

• Local job and mutual aid groups

• Word-of-mouth opportunities

• Events or shoutouts from people hiring in your borough

  
  

It’s less polished, more community.

Sometimes, that’s exactly what works.

4. Twitter/X

Still relevant if you’re in:

• Media, journalism, education, activism

• Want to build a voice around your values

• Keen to learn from public conversations

  
  

Follow, listen and add your perspective when you’re ready.

You don’t have to be loud.

You don’t have to be polished.

You just need to show what you care about; one post, one profile, one conversation at a time.

Let people know what you stand for.

You might be surprised by who’s listening.

Building Your Professional Network