Crafting a Compelling LinkedIn Headline: First Impressions Count

“The first impression is by appearance, best impression by words”

e? Do you want to be found?

e? When someone finds you do you want them to notice you?

e? Once they notice you do you want them to go through your profile and decide to connect and work with you??

If yes, then you need to have a compelling LinkedIn Headline.

Did you know that millions of users turn to LinkedIn every day, not just to connect with others, but also to search for potential collaborators, employees, and business partners? And what is the very first thing they, see? Your headline.

Your LinkedIn headline isn’t just a few words beneath your name; it’s your digital handshake, your elevator pitch, your virtual storefront sign. It is the snapshot that can either captivate or repel a visitor within milliseconds.

Here are 5 tips to make your headline like your bumper sticker that no one will miss –

1.???? Use a simple framework to script your headline –

a.???? ?WHO I/We Help: Identify your target audience who is experiencing a specific problem or challenge.

b.???? WHAT I/We Do (Solution): Describe how you address the problem or challenge faced by your target audience.

c.????? Notable achievements

d.???? Additional credentials to build Credibility

Example -

LinkedIn Trainer | Helping Professionals & Businesses generate Organic Leads on LinkedIn |Digital Organic Growth Strategist | LinkedIn SEO | Goldman Sachs 10k Fellow | |Author | Keynote Speaker

2.???? Include key words – Think about how prospects search for someone like you on LinkedIn. You need to make a list of 10 words or sentences that people add on google search option to hire you or connect with your organisation. Include the top 3 in your headline.

Example – When someone is looking for Brand strategist -

"Hire brand strategist"

"Brand strategy services"

"Freelance brand strategist"

"Brand consultant"

"Top brand strategist"

"Brand strategy agency"

"Expert brand strategist"

"Brand strategist portfolio"

?These are some of the keywords that you should therefore include in your headline.

3.???? Keep is Simple and Specific – Your headline should communicate who you are and what you do – avoid vague language and jargon. Imagine your reader is someone who has just passed out of college. Make it relatable.

Here is an example –

Original Headline: "Marketing Maven | Creative Strategist | Brand Architect | Growth Hacker | Digital Guru"

Mistake: While this headline may seem impressive with a variety of buzzwords and titles, it's not simple or specific. A recent college graduate or someone new to the industry may find this headline confusing and overwhelming. They might not understand what each term means or how it applies to the person's skills and expertise.

Improved Headline: "Marketing Specialist | Helping Businesses Grow with Creative Strategies"

In this improved version, the headline is simplified and focuses on one specific role ("Marketing Specialist") and the value the person provides ("Helping Businesses Grow with Creative Strategies"). This makes it much more relatable and understandable.

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4.???? Use action words – Action words are verbs which showcase your skills and ability. Think of rephrasing your headline to inject that extra power.?

Examples –

Original Headline: "Project Manager | Experienced in Team Leadership"

Incorporating Action Words: "Empowering Project Manager | Inspiring Team Leader"

In this example, action words like "empowering" and "inspiring" convey a proactive approach and enthusiasm for leadership roles. These words not only describe the individual's responsibilities but also highlight their leadership style and the impact they have on their team.

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5.???? Mistakes to avoid when crafting a LinkedIn- Avoid using emoticons in the beginning of your headline. No one searches for emoticons on Google of LinkedIn, it impacts your LinkedIn searchability. If you have more than one niche to talk about in your LinkedIn profile, choose one which you want to highlight, don’t confuse your audience about your offering. Don’t stuff your headlines with keywords which make no sense. Be specific and be terrific.

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Your LinkedIn profile is ever evolving and needs novelty to ensure its fresh and alive. Review your headline occasionally, (at least once a month).? Your headline is your first impression on LinkedIn don’t miss the chance to great start to lasting profitable connections.

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