What your LinkedIn profile is missing

Your LinkedIn profile gets more views than your resume. Recruiters use it to find candidates. Alumni use it to decide whether to agree to a coffee chat. Professionals at events use it to remember who you are. And if it does not send the right message, the opportunity quietly disappears.

Most candidates don’t build their profile the right way. That means that with a few small changes you can make yours stand out fast.

This week, we highlight how to structure your LinkedIn profile so it works in your favor during recruiting:

• 🎯 How to structure your LinkedIn profile

• 💼 Available internship offers

• 🔍 Get found by the right recruiters

— Investor Briefcase Team

Your LinkedIn should not read like a generic resume. It should show who you are, what you are working toward, and what kind of roles you are interested in.

Start with your headline. Most candidates default to something like “Economics Student at XYZ University.” Instead of listing your major and university, use that space to highlight your focus. A line like ‘finance student with experience in equity research and interest in M&A’ gives immediate context. It shows that you are serious about the field and already working toward a specific role.

The About section should be short and easy to follow. Write two to three sentences explaining your background, experience, and interests. Avoid trying to sound overly formal. Focus on clarity and direction. Something like “I am a third-year finance student with internship experience in M&A advisory and a strong interest in valuation and deal execution” is specific and professional without trying too hard.

The Experience section should be focused on what you actually did. Use action verbs. Mention if you worked on valuations, built a model, analyzed earnings, or supported diligence on a deal. Even small tasks matter if they show that you understand how the job works. Avoid phrases like “worked on several projects.” Be specific and definitely make sure to include measurable results you delivered.

If you are still building experience, highlight finance-related coursework, case competitions, certifications, or student investment groups. These show that you are already doing the work outside the classroom.

StepStone Group

💼 Position: 2026 Private Equity Summer Analyst
📍 Location: New York, USA
🏛️ Industry: Private Equity
📅 Deadline: June 2025

Click here to apply

The Citco Group

💼 Position: Hedge Fund Intern
📍 Location: Jersey, USA
🏛️ Industry: Hedge Fund
📅 Deadline: May 2025

Click here to apply

Bessemer Venture Partners

💼 Position: Summer Analyst 2026
📍 Location: New York, USA
🏛️ Industry: Venture Capital
📅 Deadline: May 2025

Click here to apply

Most people overlook the features that make their profile visible to recruiters. But these small changes can make a real difference.

Turn on the Open to Work setting and select internships or entry-level roles. This is one of the most effective ways to get picked up in recruiter searches.

Upload a clear photo. It does not need to be professional, but it should look clean and confident. Avoid selfies or low-light images. Profiles with a photo are far more likely to get views.

Customize your LinkedIn URL and add it to your resume. It shows polish and makes it easier to find your profile during screenings.

Finally, follow firms you are applying to and engage with content from people in the roles you want. Recruiters and alumni notice who interacts with their posts. A short comment on a market update or a like on a firm announcement helps you show interest and stay visible.

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