One of the most important social media platforms for entrepreneurs is also one of the most overlooked. Yes, I’m talking about LinkedIn.
It’s not the first thing that comes to mind when you think about a flashy social media presence, but it’s crucial to your success. After all, 645 million people are on LinkedIn, and 40% of those people check it daily.
You need to be present on LinkedIn. It’s a top networking opportunity! Even if you’re not looking for a new job, you need to ensure your profile is in top-notch shape. Competitors, leads, and potential employers and partners will all scope it out after hearing about you.
Here’s how to spruce up your LinkedIn profile.
1. Start with the basics: take a great photo
This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many people use selfies with obvious filters, photos of themselves on vacation, or don’t have a profile photo at all!
You need to make a great first impression, and a huge part of a first impression is visual. You need to make sure that you put your best face forward!
Make sure you’re wearing business casual, professional clothes in your photo. Err on the side of formal if you’re unsure what to wear. Make sure your hair and any facial hair is tidy, and avoid distracting accessories. (Now is not the time for a statement piece!)
Take the photo outside if possible, or at least utilize natural lighting. Also, make sure to update your photo regularly. You want to be recognizable, so keep everything current.
2. Get meaningful endorsements and recommendations
Another crucial part of your LinkedIn profile is your endorsements section. Authenticity is the name of the game when it comes to networking.
Nexa shares, “Essentially, networking is all about meeting new people and nurturing relationships. In order for a relationship to form and grow, there first needs to be a real connection.”
People want to know about you, and they want to see what you’re capable of! The best way to do this is through endorsements and recommendations. This shows that previous coworkers and supervisors respect your work, and that’s extremely valuable.
3. Keep everything up-to-date
This is another severely overlooked aspect of your profile. If the information isn’t accurate and recent, you’re going to get passed over. Your current resume should be shared in a PDF version, and all job titles should be current.
Make sure you’re also only sharing relevant info. Claiming to be an expert at Microsoft Office suite isn’t impressive, and you know it. Padding your profile makes you look inauthentic at best, and incompetent at worst. Make sure you’re sharing relevant information of value.
Were you at a conference? Share your thoughts! Have you taken a new certification class? Tell your network. You get the idea; you want to show you’re actively building your skills and are engaged in developing a meaningful career.
4. Beat your competition with a stronger LinkedIn profile
LinkedIn isn’t going anywhere. Use it to your advantage! Even if you aren’t planning huge career moves right now, you never know who’s looking.
Having a professional profile is only a benefit for you and your team. Take a great photo, get strong endorsements and recommendations, and keep your info up-to-date. You won’t regret it.
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