Tips for Creating an Epic LinkedIn Profile Part 3 of 3

These were created during the 21 day Lockdown period we had here in South Africa (which subsequently was extended) during the Covid -19 crisis.

Great, simple tips that you can implement to optimize your LinkedIn profile so you can come out this time (Lockdown and Quarantine) empowered, inspired and ready for action.

Find Part 1 here... and Part 2 here…

Tip 15 – Create a Compelling Headline

This is the section at the top of your LinkedIn profile and tells the world what you do, your value offering or the service you provide and who for. You have 120 characters to work with so make your LinkedIn headline appealing and interesting.

 The LinkedIn headline can –

Highlight your value proposition

Capture your connections attention

Make them want to learn more about you

A clear and concise headline is one of the most visible sections on your LinkedIn profile so create yours well for an even stronger online presence.

Tip 16- Make Use of the Media Sections

I would encourage you to use this opportunity on LinkedIn to add media to your profile. Sharing information can show your expertise, adds interest to your profile besides just words, and makes your profile multi-dimensional.

Content can be added to your LinkedIn profile in the form of photos/ pictures/ images, videos, presentations and audio recordings. Media, like videos is excellent for telling stories, sharing client testimonials and recommendations, and explaining what you do. You could introduce yourself in a video and make your introduction more personal. By adding an interactive, rich media experience and content to your profile, you can leverage the power of imagery and showcase your unique professional story.

The Media option is currently available on the following sections of your LinkedIn profile:

· Summary (About)

 · Experience

· Education

 · Posts and articles

Take some time to go through your LinkedIn profile and see where you can add media. This will firstly complete your profile but also provide a great insight into what you do and who you are.

Tip 17 of 21 – Use the Accomplishment Sections

Displaying more of your professional accomplishments and interests can help to enhance your profile. This can increase the amount of times people view your profile, which can help you build your network and connect to new opportunities.

You can use the dropdown in your profile (add profile section) to add these sections to your profile under ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

1. Publications

2. Patents

 3. Course

4. Projects

5. Honours and Awards

6. Test Scores

 7. Languages

8. Organizations

Note: You can use the LinkedIn mobile app to edit existing sections, however you can only add new sections to your profile from your desktop. From LinkedIn

Tip 18 of 21 – Keep the Experience Section Updated

Ensure that you complete and update your work history in the “Experience” section. This is the jobs and work experience that you have had to date. You can include a short introduction of what the company does, your roles and responsibilities and your most important achievements, results or successes. Use relevant general keywords from your industry.

Media can be added in this section which could include images, videos or presentation.

Tip 19 of 21 – Update Your Contact Info

Make it easy for people and prospective clients to contact and connect with you on LinkedIn.

? Complete the Contact and Personal Info section on your LinkedIn profile.

? Include a call to action in your summary on LinkedIn and latest experience section (your current job).

? Add your phone number, e-mail address and website details.

? Ensure all your LinkedIn published posts have your contact details in the footer/ by-line at the bottom.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity for your connections to take the next step.

Tip 20 of 21 – Why Use LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is one of the largest business networks available… now 610 million strong!! If you want to build your professional brand or company brand or have a successful career, maintaining an online presence on LinkedIn is crucial.

Not only is it an effective way to network with other professionals in your field, but it can get you noticed by others and potentially land you several job opportunities.

Ways you can effectively use LinkedIn;

·        Look for a new job

·        Showcase your skills and what you do best

·        Build your professional identity

·        Network

·        Sell a service or product

·        Generate sales leads

·        Attract new clients

·        Publish your knowledge

·        Recruit new employees

·        Research

·        Build your brand

·        Keep in touch with clients and former colleagues

·        Great source of content and information

With that in mind, it’s important to have a LinkedIn profile that is polished and professional. You are crazy if you don’t make the most of all LinkedIn has to offer.

Tip 21 of 21 – Wrap Up and Summary

LinkedIn is the largest online networking website and platform for professionals and businesses. LinkedIn showcases the very best of YOU. Your Profile should clearly and accurately share your unique skills and experience, industry knowledge, qualifications and showcase the services you offer.

Take some time right now to proactively use all that the LinkedIn platform has to offer.

Some practical ways to use LinkedIn over this time –

·        Complete and optimize your profile

·        Dedicate time every day or every week to stay connected on LinkedIn

·        Create and post content (at least twice a week)

·        Engage with other people’s content in a meaningful way

·        Connect and build up a strong network

·        Create a LinkedIn company Page

·        Give recommendations to others

LinkedIn is a cool place to be as they are constantly changing, updating and adding new features and improving the existing ones. LinkedIn will continue to build momentum into 2020 and beyond.

Sharon Atkins is a LinkedIn Profile Writer and LinkedIn Trainer and Coach. Get your professional and business LinkedIn profiles optimized and skillfully written. LinkedIn workshops and training to individuals, groups, business and corporates also offered.

Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn or [email protected] or here on LinkedIn.

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