In today’s world, people who don’t know you will search for you on Google and if you have a LinkedIn profile it will be one of the first things that show up.
• YOUR PHOTO IS AWFUL
Let’s start with the most obvious. How is your profile picture? Do you have one? Is it clear and close enough to distinguish your features? If not then time to upload something better. Avoid “busy” backgrounds and casual snapshots. The LinkedIn social media environment is a professional one so treat it with the appropriate care. While a nicely composed and lit professional headshot is preferred, it is not mandatory. There is no reason to overthink it. Just make certain your picture is a nice, professional looking representation of who you are and that it is properly sized, clear and that you have a smile on your face.
• UHHHHH… WHY IS YOUR PROFILE MOSTLY BLANK?
You signed up for a profile. You get notices from all your friends who are trying to connect and yet there is little to nothing for anyone to see. Fix that. Sure it takes a little time and I know you are over it when it comes to social media but the LinkedIn platform is the go to social media site for your professional life. Having an updated profile with at least your last two positions means you are 12 times more likely to be found so log in and fill in the blanks. You will be happy you did.
• USE A HEADLINE OR ELSE
Your headline appears under your name on your profile right next to your photo. It is indexed for search engines so use it to your advantage. Avoid generic terms like “marketing specialist” and add something with more personality.
Think about these items before writing your headline.
- What key words best represent what you do?
- Why do people need your service?
- What makes you special or different from others who do what you do?
- Be personable rather than canned.
Three or four keywords that represent what you do.
- Three or four keywords others use when needing your services.
- How are you different from others with the same job title?
- Identify what decision-makers care about when they hire someone like you.
- Be specific.
- Use a human voice.
If you were to commit on these three things in the next month on LinkedIn, then you would be way ahead of most people. So get to it… and remember to connect with Luckygirl while you’re poking around LinkedIn.
