I'm currently updating my application materials and wondering whether I should mention my LinkedIn profile in my CV. In the IT industry where I am, it seems to be standard practice by now, but I'm not sure whether all companies will take it well or if some might find it strange.
In IT it's definitely standard and expected - put it in. What matters more is that your profile is current and professionally maintained, because a lot of recruiters check it out. In more traditional industries it depends on the position, but it doesn't hurt if your LinkedIn looks good. Just make sure your username and profile picture are consistent with your application materials - it just looks more professional that way.
Put LinkedIn in, but with a condition: your profile actually needs to be well-maintained. That's the trap a lot of people miss - they put the URL in and the recruiter clicks on it and finds a profile that hasn't been updated in two years or where the info doesn't match your CV. That looks unprofessional and hurts you more than if you'd just left the URL out.
For IT companies, it's really become standard and many even expect it. But it's also becoming accepted in other industries now - some recruiters use LinkedIn to check you out beforehand, so you've got nothing to lose anyway. The important thing is just that your profile is current, has the same info as your CV, and doesn't look completely neglected.
My tip: before you send out your applications, scroll through your profile once like it's your first impression. Photo, headline, description, experience - everything up to date? Then go ahead and include it without worries. If not, get that sorted out before you distribute your materials.
I'd just keep it simple - put the URL in if your profile is in good shape, leave it out if it's not. In IT this is totally expected, and you're actually shooting yourself in the foot if you don't include it, because recruiters are active there and will check your profile anyway.
but here's the thing other people miss: a lot of people put their LinkedIn URL and then have a profile that's totally outdated, looks half-finished, or has an unprofessional photo. that's worse than not giving a URL at all, because it comes across like "yeah I know LinkedIn but I can't be bothered." if you do include it, you really need to make sure your headline is current, the most important roles are listed, you have a good photo, and everything matches your CV. that honestly only takes half an hour but makes a difference.
my rule of thumb: if you're not happy with your profile yourself and can't update it in max 5 minutes, leave the URL out. better no link than one that gives the wrong impression. otherwise I'd say go for it - saves time on research and shows you're ready for professional networks.
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