As you are well aware, Linkedin has to be just about the most powerful site online when it comes to networking for business. So how exactly can you get the most from this product? Like any tool it is only as good as the person using it.
So let us show you a few simple tricks and tips that will help you drive your Linkedin use up a gear or two. It’s all about presence, so let’s begin.
1 – Goal Setting:
So why have you set up a Linkedin profile? You need to think about this as it will be the motivating factor in what you do on the platform. Are you looking to be found? Maybe to get a new job or for business? Maybe you want to find new talent for your own company? Set a goal and work towards it. It can always be changed in the future as your personal or business needs grow.
2 – Picture Perfect:
They say a picture paints a thousand words and never has a truer saying been so pertinent when it comes to Linkedin. This should simply be a headshot and preferably one where you are smiling. People love smiles. Forget those full body shots as they just don’t help you in business. Keep it as professional looking as you can.
Feel funny about people you don’t know seeing what you look like? Hit settings and make it so as only people you are connected to can see you. Simple.
3 – Headlines:
You could simply use your job title, but with a little imagination you could really put this function to work for you. Why not have a call to action here too? If you are looking for work your might have something like ‘Highly Experienced <Your Job Title> Looking For Work’
The options are endless and you can update and change it at any time.
4 – Status Updates:
Well Linkedin is a social media platform and so you should really look to engage with your connections. This is where status updates come into play. Each time you post an update it’s visible to your connections. I like to post interesting articles I find or you could send an update about something important that happened at work. This is a great way to stay in touch and on your connections radar.
5 – Your Summary:
A summary should really be just about you rather than your company. People want to know about you personally and what it is that you do. Write about your duties at your current company and add in some highlights about major achievements. There is nothing wrong with letting people know you are good at what you do.
6 – Use Sections On Your Profile:
Let’s say you are looking for a new job, or simply want to register on head hunters radars when they conduct their searches. Well a good way to do this is to add additional sections to your Linkedin profile.
These are extra pieces of information outside of who you work for and education. They can be things like languages spoken or projects you have worked on. I even set one up for public speaking gigs I’ve presented within my industry.
7 – Applications:
There are now a large amount of applications that you can add on to your Linkedin profile. You might be thinking why bother? But let me tell you now, these can be a powerful marketing tool for you. They are an excellent way to drive engagement and showcase your skills to your connections. They range from Amazons reading list to adding slideshare presentations and integrating with WordPress blogs.
8 – Join Groups:
There must just be about a group for any conceivable subject on Linkedin now. You are limited to joining just 50 so make sure you choose with care. I tend to join those groups that are related the industry I work in (SEO & Digital Marketing). These can be great places to get advice or help other people out. Social Media is all about engaging and whether you are looking for a new job or business opportunities you should start to engage within groups. Why not even start your very own group?
9 – Network:
The real strength of your Linkedin network is the 1st degree connections you have. In some cases it is beneficial to connect with just about anyone as you want to really open up your network, but some people prefer to be more private and only link up with people they know. You do get a fair number of spam invites and I do screen people before I accept. Always personalise a message when you invite someone and explain why you want to connect. Don’t be a spam agent yourself as if 5 people say they don’t know you Linkedin will restrict your account.
10 – Skills:
This is a new feature recently added and allows you to tag yourself with your skill set. This is a great option to highlight your personal skills, areas of interest or what it is your business can offer. Check it out and get yourself fully coded up.
So there you have it, a quick top 10 list of things you can do right now to improve your personal profile and start getting more out of LinkedIn.
