10 Tips For A Winning LinkedIn Profile

10 tips for a winning LinkedIn profile

By Cynthia Imad

As of January 2023, LinkedIn hit 830 million users worldwide. It is easily the largest professional network out there. If you’re on a job hunt it’s a must have. Even if you’re not currently looking, a LinkedIn account can help open up some incredible opportunities and help you connect with great people in your industry. If you truly want to maximise your time on LinkedIn, you’ll need a profile that stands out (and gets you connected with the right people). Here are 10 tips for a winning LinkedIn profile:

1.??????Choose the right photos

Remember that this will set the first impression on your page. Choose a professional but friendly headshot as your profile photo – a smile will go a long way. Don’t forget to also add a background photo to showcase a little bit more about what matters to you.

2.??????Come up with a catchy but professional headline

The headline is one of the first things people will read on your profile so make it catchy (aka make it more than just your job title!!!)

3.??????Get found by the right recruiters

Avoid using too many vague and over-used buzzwords like ‘leadership’ ‘experienced’ ‘specialised’ and so on. While they’re great and may very well apply to you, you want to make sure you’re getting found by the right people in your industry. So, make sure you include industry specific keywords as well. ?

4.??????Detailed education / certifications

Adding education and certifications can also help you get found by the right people. Moreover, LinkedIn may suggest connections based on your education. As with anything else on your profile keep it relevant to your career.

5.??????Grow your network

One of the easiest ways to do this is to sync your profile with your email address book. This lets LinkedIn give you a relevant list of suggested people to connect with. No connection requests are sent without your permission – so don’t panic if you’re trying to avoid your ex/in-laws/people you haven’t talked to since high school.??

6.??????Sell yourself

Make your ‘About’ section fun and personal with an emphasis on what you can offer professionally rather than what you’re done in the past.

7.??????Request recommendations/endorsements

Endorsements and recommendations from others add value and credibility to your profile.?

8.??????Customise your URL

Did you know you can customise the web address for your profile?? Your default address includes your name but is also likely to have a random list of numbers and letters attached to it. It helps to tidy this up for a more memorable and relevant profile. On the right side of your profile, you’ll see the option to Edit public profile & URL

9.??????List your skills

But don’t overdo it – the key here is staying relevant.

10.??Keep your page active

By commenting, sharing, and ultimately – networking. After all, that’s what LinkedIn is for!