If you aren’t familiar with the platform already, LinkedIn’s support page describes it as “the world’s largest professional network on the internet. You can use LinkedIn to find the right job or internship, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn the skills you need to succeed in your career.” As LinkedIn continues to grow in the professional world, it is important to learn how to best use it for personal branding, networking, and career development. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when building your page.
Include a Profile Picture and a Meaningful/Relevant Cover Photo
Step one to crafting a strong LinkedIn profile is selecting a profile picture. You want to choose a professional headshot of yourself so anyone who visits your page (connections, recruiters, etc.) can put a face to your name and credentials. As for the cover photo, pick something aesthetically pleasing and relevant to your career.
Have an “About” Section That Speaks to Who You Are As a Person and a Professional
A well-maintained LinkedIn profile can help you control your online reputation. You want to utilize the introductory section to give your profile personality and differentiate yourself from other people.
Expand Your Network
LinkedIn’s main purpose is to serve as a networking tool. The opportunities to connect are endless. This can include friends, coworkers, past classmates, or even companies that you admire. As you do this, you can learn from others’ experiences and exchange ideas.
Connect With Mentors and Role Models
By connecting with mentors and role models, you can increase your visibility and credibility, which might link you to potential employers. Connecting with these people on LinkedIn adds them as an asset, keeping both them and yourself informed during the recruiting process. You can also use their profiles as an inspiration for upgrading your content and personal brand.
Keep Your Profile Up to Date
It is important to keep your profile up-to-date to ensure your information is accurate. This includes updating your job title, experiences, education and other relevant details. As you make achievements, such as earning an award or getting a promotion, you should not only update your profile but also update your network with a post about it. Doing this regularly can increase your chances of being discovered for possible job opportunities and keep recruiters on their radar.
Posting Frequency
The more you post on LinkedIn, the better chance you have of being noticed. Be sure to be specific and detailed on your LinkedIn page in order to help you stand out from others. Include recaps of things that you achieved and what you learned from them. This will help give recruiters a detailed picture of who you are as an industry professional.
As a business professional in the modern age, having an impressive LinkedIn profile is crucial. With these tips, your profile will impress any viewer.
