LinkedIn is a social platform where professionals gather together to grow their careers and benefit from any potential opportunities available. It is much like Facebook, except that “business people” are exchanging information, analyzing opportunities and conversing with each other. Below is a list of features that you would find on LinkedIn.
- Home: Your “newsfeed,” just like Facebook.
- Profile: This section can be customized and includes your demographic details.
- My Network: List of all professionals that you are connected to. It also shows more “contacts” who can be added.
- Jobs: LinkedIn will recommend you job vacancies based on your provided information.
- Interests: Follow pages or groups of your liking.
- Search Bar: You can customize your search considerably through LinkedIn.
- Messages: Add attachments, photos and connect with other professionals.
- Notifications: Works just like Facebook.
- Pending Requests: Just like you receive a friend request on Facebook.
Benefits of having a LinkedIn profile:
- Search and add old colleagues.
- Your profile is your resume.
- Follow groups or professional pages of your liking.
- Opportunity for applying for jobs.
- Allows you to “blog.”
The Ultimate Guide for a LinkedIn Makeover – 9 Steps!
Step 1: Catchy Introduction.
Your LinkedIn profile headline should be credible and search optimizable. It should have an impact and be related to your target audience. Aligning your heading with these four crucial elements would ensure you a good start as it would contain “keywords” aiding in search and be attractive to your target audience. For example, do mention the word “writer” if you are targeting individuals or companies looking for good content writers.
Step 2: Summary.
This section allows you to connect with your target audience, thus should be written in the first person. Also, the summary should convince the potential “customer” to contact you. It should also contain a few keywords related to your work, searching easy and further helping your profile show up in front of your target audience. However, take note that too much use of keywords would make your summary repetitive and monotonous.
Step 3: Picture.
Upload a professional picture. It should not go below your chest. Also, go for a clear headshot as it’ll increase your chance of being “viewed” and looking professional.
Step 4: Cover Photo.
Use this as an advertisement banner for your specific profession. For example, an image of books can be used as a cover photo for a writer’s profile.
Step 5: Contact.
Customize this to your liking by clicking on the “Other” option. This allows you to form a stronger connection with your target audience. Also, add your email, phone number, Twitter ID, and website. A complete contact profile portrays you as more “reliable” and people won’t feel hesitant to contact you.
Step 6: Publish Posts.
Write up your own blog or study and publish it on the LinkedIn platform. Such original content generates more “contacts” to your profile as you’ll be seen as unique. Also, having your “own” content displayed helps to establish credibility.
Step 7: Experience.
A very important component that employers and future employees look at, thus make sure that you add in your company details and the products or services offered. Also, this section should include keywords in the title and description and a “call to action,” increasing the chances of your profile to show up in front of potential clients. Furthermore, don’t forget to add details of your experience (if any) as it builds your credibility rating and also helps filter down search results.
Step 8: Visual Impact.
Adding photos, videos or presentations to your profile would make it more attractive and help engage your target audience. It may also serve as a point of difference (helps you stand out), giving you a competitive edge over the profile of your competitors.
Step 9: Expertise and Support.
According to experts, list a minimum of 10 skills on your profile as it improves the level of social proof and search-ranking. Also, by giving endorsements and supporting other professionals, the act is reciprocated, helping you build your own following.
Conclusion.
By following this 9-Step Ultimate LinkedIn Profile Makeover Guide, we hope you were able to complete your LinkedIn profile as well as make a few changes to help grow your business and brand.
