Optimizing your LinkedIn profile is one of the easiest ways to start creating your personal brand online. Getting a professionally optimized LinkedIn profile would help you if you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or a business executive. It’s not a secret that if you use LinkedIn, you are looking to make connections. Not only do you want to find people, but you also want others to find you. Once you’ve been noticed, what will compel someone to connect with you? To maximize your chances of making the right connections, follow these simple steps:
1. Don’t Skip The Profile Picture
Your business logo should not be used as an avatar on LinkedIn because this program is designed to connect people together, not businesses. Showing your face with your name increases your odds of being contacted. It helps in identifying you, demonstrates the validity of your account, and adds credibility to your LinkedIn profile.
2. Update Your LinkedIn Profile Regularly
This is that “What are you working on?” box right under your headline. Its location is highly visible, increasing its importance. This is an excellent place to use business keywords to increase the number of people who see your profile. If you use Twitter, you can choose to make your tweets appear here. Just use this option if you want to keep your Twitter purely professional.
3. Incorporate Relevant Details To Build
Your profile has been discovered by a reader. They see your photo, read your status update, and then go straight to your summary for more details. Make a strong impression and take advantage of the available space. This is your opportunity to truly develop your personal brand. Consider it a resume’s Executive Summary, but feel free to have a few personal interests including golf, travel, or photography. Utilize this section to its fullest extent.
4. List Positions Effectively
It is important to remember that even if you list previously held positions, it means nothing without a detailed description. Listing positions are great for catching the eye, but be sure to add details to sell your specific skill sets. This is another great place to utilize the power of keywords. Be sure to also list every school you’ve attended and all previous (career-related) jobs in your LinkedIn profile. One of the effective ways to gain attention is through a company or school search. Be thorough – it all matters. Even neglecting to list your high school can lower your chances of making connections.
5. Give Recommendations
Did you notice that if you don’t have three recommendations on your profile, LinkedIn doesn’t deem your profile complete? As an alternative to requesting recommendations, write them for others. Not only will this strengthen your connections, but you will also most likely receive them in return.
Also Read: A Short Crash Course: How To Sell Yourself (and Your Company) Effectively
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