When was the last time you updated your LinkedIn profile? It’s important to regularly update your profile and check-in with your followers, not just when you’re looking for a job. An up-to-date profile is a reflection of who you are and the organization you work for, and can also be used as an effective business development tool. Optimize your LinkedIn profile by making sure it’s up-to-date, by connecting with others in your industry and engaging with LinkedIn groups.
Give Your Profile a Refresh
Update your photo. Your professional headshot is the first thing followers, coworkers or future employers will see on your page. If it’s time to update this, ask a roommate or a coworker to take a new photo for you.
Emphasize your credentials. Highlight any important certifications or credentials with your name. For example, if you are a QuickBooks Pro Advisor, include this as part of your name so that it stands out. Other important credentials that might apply to you are MBA or CPA. What other certifications do you have that you want future clients or employers to know about? These boost your credibility and show your expertise within the industry.
Provide detailed information. When a follower reviews your profile, give them multiple opportunities to learn more about you and your experience. Give a brief overview of your current position or if you’re job searching, describe the type of position you’re looking for in the “About” section. This is listed right under your name and profile photo. You also have the opportunity to highlight work experience, education and other certifications on your page. Don’t be shy when providing information related to your career! Describe what you do, who you work with and your focus areas. Your clients and future employers review this information to make sure you’re a good fit.
Connect with the Right People
Connect with others within your industry; clients, current and previous coworkers, industry leaders and clients you would like to work with in the future. Make sure you’re following people that can help you grow professionally. Focus on connecting with those that share industry tips or trends, and share problem-solving tools.
New hire tip: LinkedIn provides a great opportunity to connect with new coworkers virtually. Send a direct message to coworkers you haven’t had the chance to meet yet in-person, and share how you are looking forward to working with them!
Monitor your feed. Set aside team each week to keep a pulse on what people within your industry or focus areas are talking about. You may see posts related to your work that you would like to share, comment on or you may see an opportunity to message a follower directly. You can even start the conversation with your followers by creating your own posts or articles.
Join and Use LinkedIn Groups
Joining industry-specific or relevant groups gives you an avenue to start discussions, and ask or answer questions. Groups can help you position yourself as a thought leader within the industry, meet others working in the same space, and can positively promote your organization.
You can easily find groups related to your work by searching within the LinkedIn search bar at the top of your LinkedIn page. Search for “CPA California” or “affordable housing” to get connected with groups of people working in these areas.
Once you’ve joined a group, you will start to see posts from group members appear in your LinkedIn feed. Start engaging with conversations happening within the group by asking questions, providing insight and sharing your own content or questions. Engaging in groups provides you the opportunity to expand your professional network with other individuals working in the industry, and to learn from others’ experiences.
Take advantage of the opportunities LinkedIn, the largest professional social networking platform, provides to support your career and build brand awareness for the organization you work for. With this tool you can build and maintain your network, search for jobs and build your professional reputation. Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re a seasoned employee, this platform has the tools to keep your career moving forward.
You may also be interested in our blog, How Social Media Impacts your Career, for tips to update other social media channels.