LinkedIn is by far the world’s leading and largest professional online network. It’s where employers and employees meet to offer and find jobs. But, not everyone takes advantage of this incredible networking platform.
I have been on LinkedIn for several years and I must admit I only joined because I thought that’s what I should do. After all, I had already created Facebook, Instagram and Twitter profiles, so I thought I should add a professional network to my arsenal. So, I did.
While I made sure that my profile was as attractive and professional as possible, I didn’t really focus on harnessing the power of the platform. In fact, few people do.
While I’m sure many people have different objectives when they join LinkedIn, I think they should aim to be seen in a favorable light.
Here are some quick tips to strengthen your profile.
The Basics: Your Photo
A picture truly is worth a thousand words. On LinkedIn, the very first thing that people see when they visit your profile is your photo. It’s important to make sure it is well-lit, professional and clues people into your personality. This is not the time for selfies, car or club photos.
While I prefer professional photos with a clean background, I realize that not everyone can afford a professional photoshoot. However, with a little creativity, anyone can have a LinkedIn worthy photo. Have a family member or friend take a variety of shots of you up against a white background. You can use a wall or even a plain, white sheet. Even if you choose to use a gray or colored background, just make sure it’s plain and clean.
Professional Profile
If a picture is worth a thousand words, your wording is worth a million. What you say is very important. It has to be engaging, clean and grammatically correct. The worst thing you can do is talk about how you are a meticulous executive and have a misspelling in your profile.
Endorsements
We’ve all worked with people who have sung our praises – people who think we’re the most professional, hardworking, focused individuals they have ever worked with. Ok, so why haven’t we asked them for an endorsement? It’s not enough to say that we’re good. We have to let other people say it, too. So, ask. Most people are happy to write an endorsement.
Skills
This is not the time to be shy about what you bring to the table. If you’re excellent in Photoshop, InDesign or Final Cut Pro, then say so. Lots of employers are looking for workers who are proficient in these programs. But, they won’t know it if you don’t tell them. So, make sure that you place all of your skills on LinkedIn. But, don’t catfish an employer. Don’t say you’re great at something if you’re not. If you have basic or intermediate knowledge, let them know that. Trust me.
I’m Available
Are you looking for a job? Employers won’t know that unless you let them know you are open to opportunities. LinkedIn is excellent at matching employees to specific jobs. But, you have to let them know that are available.
