Creating a 100% Complete & Compelling Profile on LinkedIn
Why: According to LinkedIn, members with completed profiles receive 40% more business opportunities. A LinkedIn profile is your resume, life story and most importantly, your personal brand. Wouldn’t you want to tell your best story? Your complete story? It’s amazing how many people fail to do this. Don’t be one of them. Here’s how to ensure your profile is as complete as it can be.
How:
- Earn as many recommendations and endorsements as possible: This social capital is invaluable. 90% of us trust what our peers say or recommend.[i] Endorsements and recommendations are the best way for others to tell your story for you.
2. Pump up your network game: The more connections you have, the more endorsements you will receive. According to Forbes, dig up your past, present and future. Look up those old colleagues and bosses and add new acquaintances each time you make a face-to-face connection.
3. Add a background image: Stand out from the crowd. You wouldn’t dream of having a Facebook or Twitter profile without a banner image. Don’t leave your LinkedIn profile naked either. (Hat Tip: Viveka von Rosen)
4. Don’t forget the basics: Profile picture (Tip #3), short tagline, work history and education.
5. Brag about yourself a little: Don’t be afraid to list your awards and honors.
6. Have a killer summary: Combine your story into a shortened summary. This will be the first main attraction anyone will see on your page.
7. Post Content: Hammer away about what you love to talk about. This gives individuals insights into your passions, personality and expertise. Clients don’t buy from companies; they buy from people. Let them know who you are.
Check out more tips like this in Erik Qualman’s book, How to Sell on LinkedIn.
Arruda, William. “The Easy Way To Get To 500 In LinkedIn.” Forbes. April 12, 2015. Accessed June 27, 2016. http://www.forbes.com/sites/williamarruda/2015/04/12/the-easy-way-to-get-to-500-in-linkedin
Consumer. “Newswire .” Global Advertising Consumers Trust Real Friends and Virtual Strangers the Most. July 7, 2009. Accessed June 27, 2016. http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/news/2009/global-advertising-consumers-trust-real-friends-and-virtual-strangers-the-most.html
