6 Quick LinkedIn Tips for Success
Researchers have found we have just one-tenth of a second to make a good impression
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As the premier site for professional networking, first impressions are extremely important on LinkedIn. Here are six quick tips to help ensure you make the first impression you want.
- Use a consistent name
The same name that appears on your business cards should be used as your LinkedIn name. With that said, if you have a common name like “Bob Smith,” you might want to use your formal name and add your middle name “Robert Logan Smith” so your contacts can find you easily. - Include a professional headshot
You don’t need to go to a professional photographer. A cropped headshot from a family photo will work, just make sure the uploaded image portrays you best. If a picture is worth a thousand words, be sure your LinkedIn profile has a photo – and make sure the photo you upload is saying the correct 1000 words about you. - Maximize the impact of your professional headline
The text under your name on your LinkedIn profile is your Professional Headline and serves as your introduction. Edit this field to reflect your areas of specialization and to enhance your professional branding and image. “Attorney at Bob, Bob, and Tom, LLC” doesn’t have nearly the impact of “Partner at Bob, Bob and Tom, LLC; Registered Patent Attorney practicing in electronic, laser, and software arts” or “Business & Legal Solutions Strategist | Intellectual Property | Risk Management | Litigator | Investor | Philanthropist” - Create a custom URL
LinkedIn allows you to create a custom web address for your Public Profile. When editing your profile, simply follow the prompts. Directing someone to connect with you at a specific address is much easier than asking them to “find” you on LinkedIn. For example, there are four Karen Emanuelsons on LinkedIn. But I’m the only one with the custom URL: www.LinkedIn.com/in/karenemanuelson - Customize your website listings
This tip is easy and shows that you know how to use LinkedIn. Edit the “Additional Information” section of your profile. At the “Websites:” option, choose “Other.” A new field appears allowing you to enter custom text before the website link. Be specific. Enter your company name, blog or even your Business Facebook page. For example: Reciprocate Blog or Reciprocate on Facebook. - Complete your profile
Look for the box on the left of your profile for LinkedIn advice to guide you toward this 100% completeness goal.
These six quick fixes will improve the first impression of your LinkedIn profile. Do you have any additional tips?
