6 LinkedIn Profile Optimisation Tips to Attract High-Quality Leads

Did you know that LinkedIn is the #1 social media platform for B2B businesses?

While Google Ads and other social media platforms are still a valuable resource, LinkedIn offers more sales and growth opportunities than these put together - so it's vital that you invest the necessary time and effort to strategise the development of your LinkedIn profile in order to get the right results.?

With that in mind, this month's newsletter focuses on six simple tips to optimise your profile and make sure it not only gets seen, but generates the high quality leads and sales you deserve.?

1. Understand the Importance of your Cover Photo

LinkedIn cover photos are routinely underestimated and underutilised - but the reality is that they are vital for making a solid first impression.

While your individual profile picture shows people who you are as a person, your cover photo is the perfect place to showcase your business. Use this space to attract your profile visitors’ attention through clever branding and important company information.?

Remember: You have 2-3 second to grab your viewers' attention and your cover photo is the perfect place to do so!

2. Don’t Waste Words on your Profile Headline?

The headline for any story is essential in attracting a potential reader, so with only 120 characters to play with, don’t waste any of them when it comes to your LinkedIn profile headline.

Your headline needs to be eye-catching and appealing to the type of client you want to attract, and should complement your cover photo.

Think about how you want to present yourself to potential leads, and construct a headline that is engaging and represents you and your business.???

3. Use Keywords & Other Basic SEO Techniques

Think about the kind of search terms a potential client would use and use these as keywords and phrases throughout your profile content.

For example, basic terms such as “sales and marketing professional in Leeds” or “effective purchasing negotiator in Manchester” should be easy terms to use within the text, but be careful not to go over-the-top. If you're tying yourself in knots trying to insert a clever search term, it will be noticed.

Keep the text natural and easy to read, and make sure you include a ‘call to action.' This is another basic SEO technique that works more often than you realise, so end with a “let’s connect” or “contact me to discuss how we can work together” and you’ll be surprised how many people do.??

4. Be Comprehensive & Consistent

Make sure you complete all relevant sections of the profile and don’t leave anything blank.

Busy business owners simply don't have the time to visit your website to find out more information on your product or service, so it's important that all the necessary information is readily available on LinkedIn.

And remember: A fluid and cohesive profile is not only easier to read, but provides a more effective overview than a 'bitty' profile that looks like it took you several botched attempts to complete.

5. Demonstrate Credibility

In LinkedIn terms this is called ‘social proof,' and you should show examples of it throughout your profile.

Naturally, viewers will skim read your profile in the first instance, so if you have independent endorsements and testimonials, make them visible and easy to read.

You should also request recommendations from clients directly through LinkedIn, which will appear on your profile page once approved. We recommend sourcing at least 2-3 recommendations that are relevant to your current company and role.??

6. Keep the ‘Featured’ Section up to Date

The featured section on your profile is the perfect place to showcase your work and career highlights. Prioritise your key skills and biggest achievements, and think about what is likely to entice and engage potential prospects.

But whatever you do, don’t just hang on to past glories. Keeping this section up to date with new achievements and high-quality content shows you are active and successful, while also keeping your profile fresh and engaging.??

To Finish

Optimising your LinkedIn profile is one of the most effective ways to boost visibility, build credibility, and attract high-quality leads. By refining key areas - such as your cover photo, headline, and featured section - you can create a strong first impression that resonates with your target audience.

As with many areas of sales and marketing, we understand that your LinkedIn profile can easily become neglected when you're busy running your business.

If you're looking to optimise your LinkedIn profile but simply don't have the skills or time, get in touch today to arrange a profile audit from our expert team.