The One New LinkedIn Feature That Will Make Your Profile Stand Out

You may not have it yet, but you will.

LinkedIn launched a new feature - initially for Premium members - that allows you to include a custom background in your profile; and they plan to roll it out to all members over time. This is the single biggest opportunity to make your profile stand out from the pack. When you combine this with the ability to integrate videos and images into your Summary and Experience and the functionality that turns your profile into your personal blog, you can see that your LinkedIn profile has become your one-stop, comprehensive personal branding platform.

To construct your custom background (once you get access), you can work with your designer to create a 1400×425 pixel image, or you can do it yourself.

One impactful way to differentiate your profile is with the creative use of color. Just as every corporate brand has a color they use consistently (IBM=blue, Home Depot=orange, Coke=red, etc.) you too need a brand color you can use to create recognition and exude emotion.

Decide on your background image/color now, so when this feature becomes available, you will be ready to differentiate your profile. Here’s the process:

1. If you don’t have a Premium account, sign up here to get access to this new feature when it becomes available (this puts you in line!!).

To add a colored background (the default from LinkedIn is blue), determine your brand color. Watch this video:

2. Once you have chosen your color, go here to register to receive access to complimentary background options for your profile. After you register, you will receive an email with a link to the page where you can select and download your background. I had my designer prepare several options for each primary and secondary color. It’s my gift to you. Choose the one that feels right.

3. When LinkedIn provides you with access to this feature, use these instructions for adding your background image to your profile: Move your cursor over Profile at the top of your homepage and select Edit Profile. Click Edit Background, which appears above the top section of your profile. Then, click Upload to use the color image you selected or your own image (maximum file size of 4MB) and click save.

That’s it! This new LinkedIn feature (once available) will help you stand out while conveying something about your personal brand.

William Arruda is a Partner is CareerBlast, a video platform and virtual coach to power your career. Download your free eBook- 13 Things All Successful People Do To Fuel Their Careers.

Here's more fun, free, fruitful stuff:

For more LinkedIn tips and advice, follow me at Forbes where I write about personal branding and LinkedIn.

Here’s a link to my most recent article about LinkedIn: Three Steps to Writing the Perfect LinkedIn Summary

If you need more help getting your LinkedIn profile in shape, the Reach Social Branding Analysts can help. Find your one-on-one LinkedIn coach here.

Happy branding!

William