It's the beginning of Fall. We are starting to see the leaves turn, and the weather is starting to get colder. Hunting seasons are starting to kick off across the country, making hunters such as myself begin to get twitchy. It's time to get ready for Winter. I have been watching the squirrels running through my yard (burying nuts all over the freaking place from our large pin oak). It got me thinking about preparation and planning. It's time to start the process of working on all of the little details that make a difference in your career.
Among the most important items are your resume and LinkedIn profile. Today, we are going to focus on your LinkedIn profile. Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume and it’s imperative that it is proofed and accurate to ensure it clearly shows who you are as a person, as well as your career. We believe that controlling your account — keeping it edited and up to date — is imperative in today's market.
5 Great Tips to Improve Your LinkedIn Page
Choosing a professional, high-quality headshot that clearly shows your face is not a bad idea. Smile and dress appropriately for your industry to make a great first impression. However, studies have shown that the profile picture can also show that your a fun person, sports lover, enthusiast… — Whichever you choose, make it count.
Your headline should be more than just your job title. Use this space to highlight your expertise, skills, or unique value proposition in 120 characters or less.
Use your summary to tell your professional story. Highlight your achievements, skills, and career goals. Make it personable and include keywords relevant to your industry.
Detail your work history with specific accomplishments and quantifiable results. List relevant skills and seek endorsements from colleagues to add credibility to your work history.
Regularly share industry-related content, comment on others' posts, and join relevant groups. Active engagement increases your visibility and helps you build a strong professional network that will pay dividends throughout your career.