September 9th, 2016
Think of your LinkedIn profile as your digital curriculum vitae. If you want businesses and business people to take you and your business seriously, then you'll want to make sure that your online reputation is well represented on this professional social network. Here are 5 simple steps to ensure that your LinkedIn profile is up to snuff in no time:
1) Upload a headshot
According to LinkedIn, users who have a photo of themselves included on their profile receive 21x more profile views and up to 36x more messages. Don't miss out on potential business and connections... upload a headshot! As the leading professional network, make sure your photo conveys professionalism and approachability. Avoid overly personal or social images. Remember, you are trying to do business on this site, not grab a beer with other users (unless, of course, your a brewer).
2) List your current employment
If your LinkedIn profile is your digital curriculum vitae, the way that you appear in search results is kind of like your business card. Help other users understand who you are, what you do, and what your position is. You'll want to make sure you include your title, company name, and the time you've been at that position. According to LinkedIn, users with "up to date" positions are discovered up to 18x more in searches by members and recruiters.
3) Keep an up-to-date list of relevant skills
Again, help other users understand who you are and what you do. Update your list of skills on your profile every now and then. According to LinkedIn, members with 5 or more skills listed are sent a message up to 33x more by other Linkedin members and recruiters, and get up to 17x more profile views.
4) Add your location
Help businesses and professionals in your area find you by adding your current location. Anyone searching for the kind of skills you possess in your area would miss you if you did not include this vital piece of information.
5) Include a summary
This will arguably be the longest and most daunting task of the five, but consider it your opportunity to tell the world your professional story. Some ideas of what to incorporate in your summary include: basic information about yourself, your professional experience, what interests you, and some goals of what you hope to achieve. One compelling paragraph should be all that you need and will help you get found in LinkedIn search results.
That's it! All of these quick steps are key driving more interest and communications from your LinkedIn profile. Bonus points if you pick-up a couple of recommendations along the way.