With over 600 million members in over 200 countries, LinkedIn is the largest business-oriented networking website, geared specifically toward professionals. Not only do 40 % of users access the platform daily, but 41% of millionaires use it consistently too, which might give one a pretty good understanding of why it has become the nr. 1 tool the get connected worldwide.
Whether you're looking for more professional opportunities or just want to boost your presence, there's no time like now to give your LinkedIn profile a revamp and understand how to use it to expand your audience.
Ruth Gabler-Schachermayr, founder of CareerMum and female factor mentor, shared her expert knowledge about how to use LinkedIn the right way with our inner circle, and we've gathered her top tips below.
#1 personalize your profile
Changing the URL should be your first step. To do so, click on edit public profile & URL, which you will find on the right side of your profile.
pro tip: Use this link in your email signature to gain more reach.
#2 adjust the visibility settings
Do you know what visitors can see on your profile? You can find out and adjusts these settings directly under the URL ones. And don't forget: make yourself interesting by not showing every detail, but showcasing the most relevant parts - this way, if the person wants to know more about you, he/she must send you a contact request.
#3 be authentic, yet professional
Remember, LinkedIn is a business platform. It is therefore important that you have a professional profile picture - vacation photos or selfies are not really appropriate here unless it fits your industry.
pro tip: Go the extra mile by using the background image to present your company or unique value.
#4 market yourself through the headline
The headline doesn't only present your profile in a nutshell, it's also an important tool for headhunters! There's no secret formula for success, but you should strive to position yourself by using relevant, concrete descriptions.
#5 make use of the about section
The about section might be a pain to complete for some, but it's also a very important part of your profile, as it shows visitors who you are and what you stand for at a glance, so try to never leave it out.
pro tip: Be mindful of algorithms and try to include industry-relevant keywords.
You implemented the changes and want to be able to track your performance?
LinkedIn's Social Selling Index can give you insights about how effective you are in establishing your brand and building connections, so that you can optimise your practices.
Looking for further tips to give your LinkedIn profile a full revamp? Find out how by downloading our LinkedIn cheatsheet.
What's more, we are dedicating this whole month towards tools that support your professional development, unlocking exclusive resources unlocking every week. Take a step towards creating your dream career and upleveling your competencies.
Ruth Gabler Schachermayr
founder | fundraising manager | international speaker and trainer | board member
Ruth started her career by founding a Children and Youth University, Junge Uni Krems, and managing the concept for five years. In 2009, she was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and received her master’s degree (MPA) in the United States.
For the past 10 years, Ruth has been working in fundraising management, consulting NGOS and building up fundraising departments. In addition, she has been engaged with JCI (Junge Wirtschaft), currently as an executive board member of JCI Vienna.
Currently, Ruth is putting her passion & experience into creating a new venture: CareerMum - a mentoring and career platform for women on their maternity leave.
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