With over one billion members, LinkedIn has become essential for professional networking. Understand the three critical components of an effective LinkedIn profile to allow you to build your professional presence and attract career opportunities. Master the top 3 Linkedin basics.
Not many people realise that there are over one billion LinkedIn members in more than 200 countries. This number is constantly growing as more than two new users join LinkedIn every second. In addition, 67 million companies are listed on LinkedIn. So, if you are not active on LinkedIn, you are missing out on an incredible opportunity! In this blog, I will share my guide to "LinkedIn basics", with 3 tips and tricks.
There is a view that resumes and LinkedIn profiles are interchangeable. There would, however, be little point in having a LinkedIn profile if this were true? Resumes and LinkedIn profiles each have their own qualities and when combined, provide employers or recruiters with more of an understanding about you.
Below are some of the differences.
| Resume | LinkedIn Profile |
| Describes your background | Illustrates what you will do in the future |
| May include a photo only in cases where it is relevant to the industry you are in | Always includes a professional headshot |
| Formal document written in the 3rd person | More casual, written in the 1st person |
| Preferred not to include referee details | Should include at least 2 recommendations per employer |
| Includes your most important achievements. Generally, up to five pages in length· | Expands on experience & skills, > five pages - since it is a soft copy |
| Factual and doesn’t evidence your personality | Written in your own voice - the About section is a key component |
| One person reviews a resume at a time, allowing you only one chance | Viewed by many users simultaneously – you can change things any time |
The top 3 "LinkedIn basics" components of your profile are your:
· Headshot
· Headline
· About section
Your headshot
The first thing anyone sees on a LinkedIn profile is the headshot. This means that you need to get your headshot right. Your headshot should give the same impression as you would want to give at an interview. A picture with you professionally dressed for the work you do and your sector that clearly shows your face is ideal. Not having a photograph on your profile will seem like you are hiding something, or it will demonstrate a disinterest in LinkedIn, reducing credibility. If you cannot get a friend to take an appropriate picture, it is worth making the investment and hiring a professional. When selecting who can view your profile under Settings & Privacy, select “all” (rather than your connections or your network). This way, everyone will be able to see if they recognise you.
Some things that will make you stand out from the crowd:
· Smile
· A background that doesn’t detract from your picture
· Clothing that doesn’t distract
· A recent picture
Your Headline
Your headline appears on all LinkedIn communication below your name. You are allowed 220 characters, so try to maximise your opportunity to make an impression by using them all. The search engine searches this area more than any other area on your LinkedIn profile. Using accurate keywords and language will improve your chances of being found. Include titles and outcomes that you are seeking.
The About Section
The About section (previously the Summary) is something that people often miss when building their profiles. There are 2600 characters of copy available. It is the opportunity to use your own voice, to express yourself and make people understand more about your personality. These are the most important components to include in your LinkedIn summary:
· Describe who you are
· What problem you solve
· What differentiates you in what you do
· A call to action
Now that you understand "LinkedIn basics", get busy and build your profile. You can always add to it once you have the skeleton. Don’t miss out on one of the best job search strategies available.
Reading about tips may be helpful, but nothing can top having an expert in your corner. If you’re ready for individualised support to reinvent your career, take a look at our Linkedin services for individuals here or contact us to book your first coaching session.
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Reading about tips may be helpful, but nothing can top having an expert in your corner. If you're ready for individualised support to reinvent your career, take a look at our services for individuals or contact us (discover session link) to book your first coaching session.
LinkedIn Basics Not many people realise that there are over one billion...
LinkedIn Basics Not many people realise that there are over one billion...
LinkedIn Basics Not many people realise that there are over one billion...
Outcome Coaching is a Career Coaching service that educates, equips and empowers individuals with the skills they need to succeed and advance their careers
