Whether you are searching for new customers or a new job, your personal profile on LinkedIn is an incredibly valuable resource. Unlike Facebook which is more focused on the “social” side of social media, LinkedIn is used mostly for developing professional networks. If used correctly, your LinkedIn profile will help you develop your personal brand, better promote your business, and attract prospective clients and/or recruiters.
Also, it’s important to note that LinkedIn profiles tend to be ranked high in Google searches. And when recruiters, prospective clients, or business connections Google you, it’s important your online presence provides them with a positive first impression.
Here are a few simple tips to enhance your LinkedIn profile:
Develop a Vanity URL
When you initially build your profile on LinkedIn, the site will provide you with randomly generated and super long URL address. If you keep this URL, it will be more challenging for people who are searching for you (through a search engine like Google) to find you. You can edit this URL through your “Profile Settings”. Integrate your name if it is unique . Otherwise, it can also be very effective to include keywords based on your job skills — but remember, the simpler the URL, the easier it will be to share and promote.
Be Yourself
A LinkedIn headline will appear below your name and is a part of all of your interactions on the site. And while it’s very important it sounds professional (for instance, “President, ABC Beads” is a much better choice than “I own and manage my own jewelry company.”), your headline shouldn’t exclude your personality.
LinkedIn’s default setting will automatically use your current job title as your headline. However, does your current job title really define you? Are there other strengths and expertise you can offer? If you really want to develop a “true” personal brand online, use your own voice and make it catchy! You are certainly not limited to your day job.
Think of yourself as marketing strategist, what can you say about your business, services, or expertise that will have recruiters or prospective clients chomping at the bit to learn more?
Utilize Keywords
Listing your skills in the form of keywords or phrases will provide searchable tags for your LinkedIn profile. This is similar to adding keywords to blog posts. Many businesses and recruiters use LinkedIn to search for a business or individual who can perform a certain task or provide a specific service — so, prove your relevance and list what makes you the most marketable!
Integrate Your Blog
If you make regular use of a blog, integrate your blog posts with your LinkedIn profile to help develop your brand. This is great way to keep your connections updated with your latest thoughts, opinions, or expert advice.
Synchronizing your blog with your LinkedIn profile is simple. You can either add an application like WordPress or Blog Link to your profile or you can just include a link to your blog within your profile’s summary or website section.
Utilize Third-Party Applications
Do you provide valuable content through other sites like SlideShare, Twitter or WordPress consistently, as well? Sync your updates to your LinkedIn account through third-party applications. You can find a number of helpful applications through your LinkedIn account settings. However, be cautious with what accounts you sync to LinkedIn. For example, if many of your Tweets are more casual or personal, you probably don’t want prospective clients or recruiters accessing them. Ultimately, LinkedIn’s third-party applications should be used to better showcase your special skills, interests, or work samples.
What has previously caught your eye when browsing through LinkedIn profiles?
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