From the course: Learning LinkedIn
Create a great profile
- [Instructor] LinkedIn has revolutionized the way we find and apply for jobs and collaborate with other professionals. Essentially, LinkedIn has become the new resume as it provides insight into who you are, what you do, what you've accomplished, and more. So if you've gone through the process of setting up a basic LinkedIn account, it's a good idea to put in some more effort and create a great profile that really stands out and helps you achieve your goals. Throughout this chapter, we'll be looking at several of the different profile sections you can add to your profile and exploring best practices for using them. But before we get started, let's take a step back and consider a few things. First, ask yourself, why are you using LinkedIn? What are you trying to accomplish? Are you looking for a job? Are you building a professional network, showcasing your business or product, or searching for news and ideas related to your field? Each of these is a great way to use LinkedIn and they're not mutually exclusive. But consider what your primary purpose for using LinkedIn is. It may change depending on your current goals, but your current goals should dictate how you set up and maintain your profile. It's also important to stay visible on the LinkedIn platform. When working on and updating your account, look for opportunities to use keywords, words that are relevant to your field that others may use when searching for someone like you. Also keep a mindset of adding value to your network. LinkedIn is a great place to get updates, ideas, and resources from industry leaders. But make sure to create win-win relationships where you're also sharing your knowledge and helping people within your network. In addition to helping others, you'll also increase your visibility on LinkedIn, especially if others share your contributions with their networks. Along those lines, stay active. The more you post and interact with others, the more you'll show up on other people's feeds. And remember to be professional. LinkedIn is a social networking site for professionals. Be sure to conduct yourself and create your profile to reflect this. And keep your profile up to date. As you acquire new skills, take on new jobs, and accomplish new things, be sure to update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your current status and responsibilities. And finally, once you've created a great LinkedIn profile, share it with others. Share the URL to your LinkedIn profile on your business cards, email signature, and in other places to help build your network. For more in boosting your profile, check out the course Rock Your LinkedIn Profile in our library.