Social media is now a massive part of most companies’ business plans, and as an employee your personal brand is key in standing out from the pack. Using all the features on LinkedIn can massively benefit your career. 

But where to start? Panic not, for getting the most out of your LinkedIn profile can be easier than it seems. Just follow these simple steps:

Personalise your header

 It’s right at the top of your profile for a reason – it wants to be seen! But many people just leave it blank, missing an easy opportunity to tell someone viewing your profile who you are.

Nowadays many people skim read profiles and CVs so a good header will show who you are right from the off.

Your header should either be branded from your current company or represent your line of work. It might be a picture of you in action at your job, if you're really savvy you might add dates to an upcoming networking event you will be attending.

Basically anything but the standard LinkedIn default banner will help you stand out!

Say Cheese!

Oh, and while we’re talking photos – keep it professional. 

Your headline is more than just your job 

Your headline is the statement that appears directly below your name in your profile. It describes who you are and more importantly, what you have to offer. 

Here’s the thing – you have a whopping 120 CHARACTERS to play with when crafting your headline.

You are more than just your job title - so include more than just your job title. Consider it your personal brand, or a micro-statement of your specialisms.

Just like your header, you should update this regularly to reflect your career progression.

READ MORE: Here are some examples of Recruiter headlines that go beyond the job title. 

Turn your summary into your story 

*cue the lights and motivational music* 

Your summary sits below your headline and job title. This is your professional story; your superhero origin story. How you became to be the kick-ass, trailblazing expert in your field that you are today. 

Do include: 

• who you are professionally 
• what skills you have and why they matter 
• some of your biggest achievements 

If you plan to use your LinkedIn in a sales or recruitment capacity, your summary should also emphasise what you can offer your prospects, and invite them to connect with you. 

Don’t include: 

• favourite colour/pet/type of cheese (brie, obviously) 

LinkedIn Pro Tip: “Don’t be afraid to invest some time, try a few drafts, and run your summary past people you know. This is your most personal piece of content marketing – and it’s worth the effort.” 

Add merit to your profile...

Write recommendations. Rather than asking your contacts to write a LinkedIn recommendation for you, why not write them for key people in your network? They are likely to return the favour.

Sharing is caring 

Sharing relevant content is one of the easiest ways to add value to your network, demonstrate your expertise and encourage discussion. Start by following companies and publications you admire, as they’ll not only keep you informed but will provide you with content to share. 

Keep a close eye on your LinkedIn feed, and share content that you find genuinely interesting, that aligns with your point of view.

Don’t forget to include sharing and liking your company’s LinkedIn posts as appropriate! If nothing else, it will keep your marketing team happy and smiley.

 
So, you’re an expert? Prove it... 

Publishing your articles via the LinkedIn Publications section lends more to your credibility than anything on your profile. 

Not only are your articles one of the first things people see when visiting your profile, but the audience is already there and waiting for great content.

As the old saying goes "show, don't tell". By offering something of value to your industry and your network you are showing you are an expert in your field and this will showcase your skills much better than a CV ever could.

Posting to LinkedIn has the potential to spark a conversation or inspire a prospective client or employer to reach out to you.

#PositiveVibes Only 

When someone first visits your profile, they see what you’ve shared and a timeline of EVERYTHING you have liked/commented on recently. Therefore, all that activity is public. So be mindful what you say, even if it’s on a friend’s profile, as it often publishes to your feed as well.  

Your safest bet is to keep it positive and assume that all your activity will be public. 

Follow The Leader 

 Following people on LinkedIn is a great way to start building a professional relationship with a potential new client or employer/employee. 

• On their profile, click the 3 dots to find the “Follow” option. Then leave relevant, thoughtful comments on their posts. 
• Follow companies you want to build relationships with and do the same as above. 
• Follow hashtags relevant to your industry and do the same. Find hashtags to follow here. 

 
Pro Tip: If you’re working on landing a new account or a high-value candidate, their feed will tell you a lot about their needs and interests. By making a meaningful and helpful comment, your name will begin to register with them, and you’ll have valuable insights to approach them with when you’re ready to officially add them on LinkedIn and engage one on one. 

Recruiters look at more than just your LinkedIn. Why not do a social media cleanse of your other social media profiles like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram?