Your LinkedIn profile has to truly stand apart from the competition in order to gain that visual edge you need for either a project or job. The big question is: what should be improved about your profile to gain that edge? A new photo? More keywords? Here’s seven tips to help pump up your profile.
- Professional photo. The worst thing you can do, by far, is to not have a photo on your LinkedIn profile; the second-worst is having an unprofessional photo. Remember, LinkedIn is a more professional social media channel than Facebook. Pay a photographer and have a good photo taken.
- Keyword your header. What do you want to be known for? Let these keywords shine in your profile header! Don’t stuff keywords — don’t use the same word over and over, such as “social media marketer”, “social media consultant” and “social media mentor”. Find a way to express these in one keyword or phrase.
- Write to your expertise. Got something to say? Write it out! LinkedIn Publishing Platform is a blogging platform that gets your posts in front of all of LinkedIn’s six million (or more) members. This gives you a professional, warm ground by which to verbalize your thought leadership. TIP: Post no more than once a day to keep the notifications to your network down. I prefer 2-3 times a week max.
- List your interests. There is a section you can add called “Additional Info”. List your interests here. What do you like to read or collect? This brings a human element to your profile, and also introduces potential common ground for visitors/prospects.
- Projects and Slideshare. Don’t underestimate these powerhouse sections. Listing your projects demonstrates what you are currently working on, which can help if you are experiencing a gap in employment. If you are a speaker or presenter, do you use PowerPoint presentations in your speeches? Get a free Slideshare account and link them to your LinkedIn profile.
- Endorsements DO matter. Endorsements are just as powerful as recommendations. Here’s why: when someone endorses your skills, they are putting their credibility on the line by saying you DO have that skill. The two best (and easiest) ways to get your skills endorsed: a) ask your 1st connections to endorse you; b) endorse your connections’ skills.
- Certifications, Awards, & Volunteering. You might have gaps in either employment or education, but, did you earn any certifications? These demonstrate continuing education. Did you receive any industry or scholastic awards? List these to show your credibility. Do you enjoy volunteering? OK, it may not always pay, but it does show prospects you care about your community and choose to get involved in what matters to you.
After you’ve pumped up your profile, join a couple of groups within industries you want to work with and participate in conversations. A better strategy: reconnect with your network first. Congratulate folks who are moving up, having anniversaries/birthdays, or who have also improved their profiles. Show you truly care about being connected to them.
Want more help with LinkedIn? Email me with your questions – I’m ready to help!
Be strategic. Be visible. Be found.
