6 Tips for Ensuring an Effective LinkedIn Profile
If you've got a LinkedIn account, it probably means you're more interested in networking with clients, potential employers, and co-workers than playing Farmville. But just tossing stuff into your profile until LinkedIn reports that it's complete doesn't mean it's a good profile -- it just means it's sorta done. Start off the new year right by giving your LinkedIn profile a checkup and making it more effective.
Last week, Web Worker Daily explained how to ensure your profile is effective, and their advice was spot on. Here are the highlights:
- Use your common professional name. And if you're a woman who has taken her husband's name, do the Facebook trick of including your maiden name to make it easier for colleagues to find you.
- Use a professional photo. Not a snapshot your brother took of you while on vacation.
- Add a Professional Headline. You can find it on the Edit My Profile page. It should be a concise, one-line bio. And, for the love of God, don't say you're unemployed in the headline.
- Be thorough when you describe your past positions. Be specific about what activities you do that best represent your career.
- Describe your Web site or blog. Don't list the name of the site, which is probably somewhat vague. Get right to the point by describing its function.
- Request recommendations. It's okay to ask people for recommendations -- seek out people that would complement your goals.
