Why LinkedIn is A Must-Use Tool

So what does it take to get a good profile up on LinkedIn and searchable?

The key is searchable and content rich.

More and more individuals and recruiters are searching LinkedIn for future employees, providers, and partners. As job postings shrink more corporate recruiters are scouring LinkedIn for the right people.

There are a million, or it seems like that many, of articles telling you what mistakes to avoid etc. I agree with much of it. But let’s focus on getting started and the most important pieces to begin with.

1. Your Profile

Complete it. Be sure to look at it from the perspective of, “How am I presenting myself to others?” Always keep in mind the value proposition you bring. Ensure the readers know who you are and what you are all about professionally.

2. Professional Headline

Know what it is and use it to your advantage. The professional headline is the field below your name. This field is longer than you think. Most individuals enter a simple job title but this, many times, is not descriptive enough.

This field is shown whenever another user mouses over your photo. Your name and professional headline show in a pop-up. In some parts of LinkedIn, the pop-up has your name, professional headline, geographic area, and current job title.

3. Website Link

Change the “My Website / My Company” links to be specific. You can edit these fields within your profile. When you edit, use the option of “other” then enter the text you want to display on your profile.

I suggest entering the name of your company and have it link to the part of the website you want people to go to. I have my link going to the home page of my website. It is the best place for people to start and to discover more about my business and what I specialize in.

4. Make Your Profile Public

In the privacy settings, be sure to set your profile to public. It makes it much easier for people to find you and utilize your services or reach out to you for a job opportunity. The more you allow people to view your profile the more likely you will be contacted.

Also be sure to change the default URL of your profile to your name. This is a great tool when you add a link to your profile on marketing documents.

5. Status Updates And Tweets

Once you are up and going on LinkedIn be sure to utilize the status updates.

Promote your business, articles you have written, an event you are attending or presenting at, etc. If you are not posting status updates somewhat regularly you will be viewed as an inactive LinkedIn member. Not good. But on the other hand, posting all your Tweets or doing daily updates is over-kill. The rule of thumb here is, keep it professional and balanced.

6. Recommendations

Do not be afraid to ask for and give recommendations. They build your credibility. An easy way of breaking into this area is to be generous yourself. Give a few authentic recommendations for your colleagues.  Many times the favor is quickly and easily returned.

There you have it, six quick ways to get yourself up and utilizing LinkedIn as a business building or job attraction tool. Make it a regular practice to get on LinkedIn as least once a week for an hour. Stay active and continue to build your network. You will be glad you put in the time.

Source:  www.careerealism.com   By: Lisa Adams