If you haven’t already heard of LinkedIn you really ought to get yourself a profile.
A LinkedIn profile can open doors to opportunities and networks. Whether you’re in the market for a new career move, or if you are currently one of the lucky few content with your job.
Your LinkedIn profile is your online CV and it too has to stand out from the competition.
It is worth noting that LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking site. It has over 200 million members with over 90% still using the free version of the site. Despite it being a networking hub, it is a professional networking site and not a personal one. Many people still cannot make the distinction between the two.
Employers and clients will very often check out your space. That’s the reality.
How you can maximise your LinkedIn profile
Profile picture:
Ensure you include a profile picture. If appropriate for your business, use videos, presentations or showreels. One of the biggest mistakes is not using a profile picture. You are seven times more likely to get your profile viewed if you have one. Saying that, it is just as important to put up an appropriate photograph – showing you in a professional yet approachable way.
A complete story:
It is important to ensure your career and education history is put together appropriately. It should tell an accurate and complete story. It should also be written for the people whom you are trying to reach. Perhaps surprisingly, just over 50% of users have a complete profile.
Participation:
Participate in relevant groups and comment on ongoing discussions. Keep your titles short. Make sure to provide meaningful context. Always include a link to your website, if appropriate. It is a great way to network,and to drive traffic. If done correctly it can build your reputation.
Connections:
Maximise your connections and ask for recommendations.With the concept based upon six degrees of separation, using your first-degree connections will enable you to build relationships through your existing contacts and beyond.
Go public:
Make your profile public. You need to be found. Around 50% of Fortune 100 companies hire through LinkedIn.
Do you have a LinkedIn profile? When was the last time you checked yours?
If you need help completing your LinkedIn profile contact michelle@cvornotcv.com
Sources: Mashable, LinkedIn, SocialTimes, Montpellier
