If you’ve been keeping up with my blog, you’re probably already familiar with the different ways you can promote yourself and your business on LinkedIn. If you’re joining me for the first time, you might find it helpful to check out one of my earlier posts: How To Elevate Your LinkedIn.
A Quick Recap…
To break it down into the simplest of terms, there are essentially two different approaches to using LinkedIn. One is to establish a company page, which we’ll get into in more detail in our next post. The other is to develop a personal profile. Yep, you guessed it. This week’s blog post is all about getting your personal profile to rock!
Nailing the Basics
The most important thing about your profile is that it’s both engaging and genuine. This will help you naturally attract your ideal clients. To give your clients a well-rounded idea of who you are and what you do, start by perfecting these three basic elements of your personal profile:
1. Profile Picture
Like any other form of social media, your profile picture is often the first thing people see. Remember, people connect with other people, and your picture is their first opportunity to connect with you, so make it your headshot. It doesn’t have to be taken by a professional. Try taking some clear selfies or have a friend take a few photos of you looking your best – friendly and approachable.
2. Background Image
Your background image is basically your personal profile’s advertising billboard. Not only will it make your profile more engaging, it also serves as the perfect space to include important information like your contact information, motto, or slogan. Use this background to showcase what you do.
3. Headline
When someone searches LinkedIn for a specific keyword or job title, it’s your headline that determines whether or not you’re included in that search. To put you in front of your ideal clients, your headline needs to be accurate and concise. Keywords are an asset here, so take the time to find your niche. You can include how you help, but be sure you also note your “job title.”
Staying Up-to-Date
While your clients can now find you on LinkedIn, keeping your profile active is the next step to really engaging with them and increasing your visibility with new leads.
Consider sharing valuable content with the people in your network by adding them to your personal profile. Things like industry-related YouTube videos or recent news articles and blog posts can connect you with others while also providing something of value to potential clients.
With an active and engaging personal profile, your LinkedIn will start to work for you! Your name will appear in countless searches, both through LinkedIn and Google. Your profile will also be pushed out to other people’s networks with something as simple as a “like.”
Don’t just take it from me, though – This article by Forbes Magazine offers some great examples of businesses who use their executives’ and employees’ LinkedIn profiles to connect and stand out.
The Personal Profile Checklist
If you’re ready to take the next step in rocking your personal profile, download my free LinkedIn Profile Checklist! It breaks down all the elements of your personal profile, from your photo and headline right down to your “About Me” section and contact details. You’ll get key tips on how to make your profile speak to all personalities, while making sure you’re utilising every tool LinkedIn offers!
Download my free LinkedIn Profile Checklist right here and level-up your profile today!
