How to Update Resume on LinkedIn: The Complete Guide to Keeping Your Profile Fresh and Job-Ready

Keeping your LinkedIn profile updated is like tending a garden—if you let it go, things can get messy and opportunities might just slip through your fingers. If you’ve ever wondered how to update your resume on LinkedIn, you’re definitely not alone. LinkedIn has essentially become the digital version of your resume, but with a lot more personality and interaction. Knowing exactly where and how to update your profile can really make a difference in how recruiters see you, or even if they find you in the first place.

Maybe you’re asking yourself, how do I update my resume on LinkedIn? Or you want to know where to update resume in LinkedIn because you’ve heard it’s not as straightforward as just uploading a file. Whatever the case, this guide is your go-to for everything about updating your LinkedIn resume, covering all those questions and more.

Why Is It Important to Update Your Resume on LinkedIn?

You might think your resume and LinkedIn profile are just “online paperwork,” but they’re much more than that. Your LinkedIn profile is your professional brand on steroids—it’s what thousands of recruiters, potential clients, and future employers see when they Google you. When you know how to update your resume on LinkedIn, you’re not just refreshing a page—you’re making sure your story is current, compelling, and easy to find.

LinkedIn also provides tools that traditional resumes don’t: endorsements from peers, recommendations, multimedia attachments like presentations or videos, and a platform to share articles or thoughts. All these things combined give you a dynamic edge.

If you neglect updates, it’s like showing up to an interview with last year’s resume—sure, it’s better than nothing, but it’s missing the latest wins, skills, and growth. And honestly, in today’s competitive job market, those details matter.

Where Exactly to Update Your Resume in LinkedIn?

Here’s something people often get stuck on: LinkedIn doesn’t actually work like a traditional resume storage. It doesn’t have a button called “Update Resume” that replaces your profile with a resume file. Instead, your LinkedIn profile is your resume, broken down into sections—Experience, About, Skills, Education, and so on.

That said, if you want to upload a resume file, you can add it in the “Featured” section or upload it when applying for jobs directly through LinkedIn. But for most of your profile, you’ll be updating text and sections, not swapping out files.

This is where a lot of confusion comes from. So understanding that your LinkedIn profile is essentially your living, breathing resume is key.

How to Update Your Resume on LinkedIn: Step-by-Step

Alright, now that we’re clear on where updates happen, let’s walk through the exact steps to update your resume on LinkedIn so it shines.

1. Refresh Your Headline and Summary (About Section)

Your headline is the line right under your name. Think of it as your professional tagline. It doesn’t have to be just your job title—it’s your chance to grab attention.

• Click the pencil icon next to your profile picture to edit.

• Update the headline with keywords that recruiters search for or your current role.

• Scroll down to the “About” section and hit the pencil there.

• Rewrite your summary to tell your story—who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you’re looking for.

I remember when I first tried updating my headline, it felt awkward to sum myself up in a few words, but it really helped once I played with different phrases. It’s worth spending time here.

2. Update Work Experience with Achievements

This is the meat of your profile.

• Edit each job by clicking the pencil icon next to the role.

• Update job titles, dates, and especially descriptions.

• Focus on accomplishments, not just duties. Quantify your impact where you can (numbers speak louder than words).

• Add new roles or projects as you take them on.

Sometimes I catch myself just copying old resume bullets here, but then I remind myself LinkedIn is more casual—so I tweak the language to sound more conversational and less like a list.

3. Add or Update Your Skills and Endorsements

Skills are like the keywords recruiters search for.

• Scroll to the Skills section.

• Add new skills relevant to your current goals.

• Prioritize which skills show up first.

• Reach out to colleagues for endorsements. It feels a little awkward but it really adds credibility.

4. Upload a Resume File (Optional but Useful)

Even though your profile is your resume, sometimes you want to share a traditional document.

• Head to the “Featured” section near the top of your profile.

• Click the plus (+) sign, select “Add media.”

• Upload your resume file in PDF or Word format.

• Give it a clear, professional title and description.

Keep in mind this file doesn’t automatically update your profile—you need to update both separately.

5. Update Education, Certifications, and Volunteer Work

These sections add depth and dimension.

• Click the pencil to edit existing education or certifications.

• Add any new courses, workshops, or volunteer experiences.

• Highlight certifications that are in demand or relevant to your industry.

6. Stay Active: Share Updates and Engage

LinkedIn rewards activity.

• Post updates when you have new achievements or career news.

• Share or comment on industry content.

• This keeps your profile fresh and your network engaged.

How to Update Your Resume in LinkedIn When Applying for Jobs

Many people ask, “How do I update my resume on LinkedIn when applying for jobs?”

Here’s the deal:

• LinkedIn pulls your profile information automatically when you apply to jobs on its platform.

• You also have the option to upload a separate resume file tailored for each job application.

• This is important because your LinkedIn profile is broad, but tailored resumes focus on what that specific employer wants.

So, before you hit submit, make sure you’re uploading the right version of your resume to boost your chances.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Updating Your LinkedIn Resume

Updating your LinkedIn profile seems simple, but people trip up in some consistent ways. Here’s a quick rundown of what to avoid:

Honestly, it’s important to realize updating your LinkedIn resume is just one part of the puzzle. Your traditional resume still matters and should be in sync with your profile but isn’t an exact mirror.

1. Set reminders to review your profile every few months.

2. Use the LinkedIn app for quick, on-the-go edits.

3. Add new skills and certifications regularly.

4. Request recommendations to build credibility.

5. Engage with posts and network to stay visible.

FAQ: How to Update Resume on LinkedIn

Q1: How do I update my resume on LinkedIn without losing endorsements?
A: Edit existing sections instead of deleting them. Endorsements and recommendations stay unless you remove them.

Q2: Can I upload multiple resumes to LinkedIn?
A: Yes, you can add multiple files in the Featured section or upload tailored resumes per job application.

Q3: What’s the difference between updating my profile and uploading a resume file?
A: Your profile is your online, dynamic resume. Uploading a file shares a static document, often for applications.

Q4: How often should I update my LinkedIn resume?
A: Every 3-6 months or after significant career changes.

Q5: Where exactly do I update my resume in LinkedIn?
A: Mainly in the About, Experience, and Skills sections. Resume files go in Featured or job applications.