Improve your LinkedIn profile: 5 tips
Your LinkedIn profile is much more than just an online CV. It serves as your business card and an important networking tool. But how can you design your profile so that it stands out from the crowd and appeals to potential employers or business partners? Here are five tips to optimise your LinkedIn profile and position yourself as an experienced specialist
1. Professional profile picture and cover photo
First impressions count – even on LinkedIn. Your profile picture should look professional and likeable. Choose a recent photo in which you are easily recognisable and make sure you are dressed appropriately for your industry. Avoid group photos or pictures from your holiday. Don't forget the cover photo either, it makes up a significant part of the first impression. Use a picture that reflects either the company you work for or your profession. Avoid beautiful nature photos and the like, unless they are directly related to your work.
2. Meaningful headline
The headline under your name is one of the first pieces of information that visitors to your profile will see. Instead of just stating your job title, use this line to emphasise your core competencies or added value. For example: ‘Cloud solutions specialist | IT security expert | Passionate developer of innovative software solutions. This will give potential employers or clients a clear idea of your specialism at a glance.
3. Detailed summary
Your summary is the centrepiece of your profile. Use this section to outline your professional career, your key achievements and your professional goals. Be specific and focus on your strengths and competences that are relevant to your target position. Use active and positive language. Remember that this section should tell your story - what makes you special and where you want to go.
4. Strong networks and recommendations
A strong network is essential on LinkedIn. Maintain regular contact with colleagues, business partners and customers. Recommendations that confirm your skills and way of working are also valuable. Ask former superiors or colleagues for short references that emphasise your skills and your contribution to projects. These recommendations can make all the difference when it comes to landing a new career opportunity.
5. Updated skills and knowledge
Your skills are an essential part of your LinkedIn profile. Add your most important competences and soft skills that are relevant to your professional field here. Have these skills confirmed by colleagues to increase your credibility. You should also regularly check whether your listed skills are still up to date and whether new skills need to be added.
Conclusion
A well-optimised LinkedIn profile can make the difference between a missed opportunity and the next step in your career. By making your profile picture professional, using a concise headline, writing your summary in a detailed and engaging way, strengthening your network and regularly updating your skills, you will increase your visibility and attractiveness to potential employers and business partners.
Your LinkedIn profile is ready but not your CV? Learn about how to us AI to (re)write your CV. Click here.