How to make your LinkedIn profile stand out
Most of us wouldn’t go to a job interview wearing shorts and flip-flops. However, you may be doing the digital equivalent if your LinkedIn profile is substandard. After all, most job searches occur online these days, as does much of the hiring process.
The focus on virtual job and business opportunities makes LinkedIn more than a social network for work colleagues. It’s the best place to find new employees seek new employment and build meaningful business connections. So, we don't have to tell you that it's well worth your time to optimize your profile. Are you ready? Let's get started!
Be personal
Photo choice is step one in creating a winning LinkedIn profile. A professional headshot is perfect for your profile photo, while your background picture gives you a chance to show a bit about who you are. Appealing background picture ideas include photographs of your favorite city’s skyline, a favorite inspirational quote or a scenic nature shot of a beautiful place you’ve visited. Strike the right balance by revealing something of yourself while maintaining professionalism.
Your profile headline gives you another chance to express yourself. This crucial element should contain a one- to two-sentence description of who you are and what you do. Some people might have time to read, so make it stand out! Use relevant keywords in your headline to help potential employers or clients find you in their searches. Beyond this, make sure you include specific skills or work accomplishments. Don’t just provide a job description; show people what you’re doing!
The “About” section is a longer, more in-depth summary of who you are and what you do. Share your voice by using some of this space to talk about your passions. Why is this the career path you chose? How did you get where you are? Where do you want to go from here?
Show your skills
Your LinkedIn page is a great place to share your past accomplishments. The "Featured" section, in particular, gives you room to include details about projects you've worked on and let your unique skillset speak for itself. Those who view your profile will be able to see your skills in action and understand how you’ve applied them in the past.
It’s essential to list your skills under the “Skills and endorsements” section, but equally important to find people who will endorse you. The more endorsements you have, the more credible you appear. Recommendations, which are personalized written messages from your colleagues, are even better. Don't be shy and ask your peers for some kind words on your professional personality and business know-how.
LinkedIn also offers skills assessments—short online tests you can take to demonstrate your talent in a specific area. If you score well, you can display a badge on your profile. If you score poorly, your results are private and need not be shared.
Establish a presence!
Now that you’ve perfected your LinkedIn profile take steps to make sure it’s seen. There are two great strategies to increase your page views: connect and engage.
Connect with everyone you know, be it colleagues, relatives or acquaintances from college. The more people you’re connected to, the better chance you have at the right person catching sight of your profile.
However, connecting with people isn’t enough. You should also engage with them. Commenting on people’s posts and tagging them in posts related to their company’s goals show that you are aware of and interested in their work.
In summary
LinkedIn is a business social media powerhouse, and it’s crucial to possess a standout profile to attract new hires, take the next step in your career or lift your business to the next level. Remember to show your authentic self, demonstrate your qualifications and engage with a wide variety of people, and you’ll be well on your way to LinkedIn success.
If you’re working on sprucing up your LinkedIn profile, comment and let us know if these tips are practical to you or if you need some additional help!
Photos by Benjamin Balazs on Pixabay; Benjamin Fritz on Pixabay; and aatlas on Pixabay