To get value from LinkedIn it is important to build a profile to represent you professionally, build a network and establish credibility through content creation, curation and engagement.
LINKEDIN PROFILE BUILDING
Here is a reminder of the actions to take to increase visibility and credibility on LinkedIn;
- Review and update you LinkedIn footprint (name, photo and headline). Here are some components you can use;
[Expertise/role] + [Outcome/value for whom] + [Organisation] + [Industry] + [Delivery]
Watch the video: How to update your Profile Headline to recap: How to Craft Your LinkedIn Headline // with Jo Saunders
- Update your background image
Size: 1584 x 396 pixels Tip – use Canva to create a collage.
- Craft your About section infusing your story, vision and values.
Up to 2,600 characters to;
- Capture attention
- Create attraction
- Compel action
As a reminder here is the framework;
- Teaser – Capture attention – Future Statement/Q (~200-250 characters)
- Impact – unpack the problem you solve
- Whodo you work with?
- Howdo you solve the problems?
- What qualifies you- achievements, qualifications, experience
- Why? What is your purpose & big vision? And what are you passionate about?
- What Next – invite action (call / email / book)
- Add a name pronunciation (voice recording) on mobile
Examples:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/josaunders
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrybozin/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbourkesalesspace/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiesmithupsidestraining/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendytansey/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/regsorrell/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmenbraidwood/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhollowaypersonalbrand/
- Review the Experience section
- Review title
- Ensure you are connected to the organization Page
- Add a description about the role, the problems you solve for your clients and community and the impact
- Update and rearrange your skills, get endorsed for key skills and seek recommendations.
- Identify content to add to the Featured section including blogs, video, LinkedIn Articles, and posts previously shared.
- Update Contact details to ensure your email address and phone number are accurate. Include up to 3 key links to web links, and customise your profile URL.
- Determine if you would like to turn off the People AlsoViewed section (AKA Squattters).
Me > Settings & Privacy > Account Preferences > People Also Viewed
- If you are brave or creative add a video behind your profile photo
Examples;
- Animated video: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilleblyth-contentmarketing/
- Video montage: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regsorrell
- Talking head: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josaunders
- Talking head: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhollowaypersonalbrand/
- Talking head with captions: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmenbraidwood/detail/profile-cover-story
- Production: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffyoungralemoi/detail/profile-cover-story/
- Produced intro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielknowlton1/detail/profile-cover-story/
NETWORKING
Connect or follow the people you discover or meet, the organisations they work with, and the people you want to influence.
- Who are the decision-makers that you could follow or connect to?
- Who else works for or with the organisations you want to be known by?
- Follow the company page and start mentioning individuals at the organisation.
CONTENT
Creating, curating and conversing on LinkedIn allows you to reach your network beyond your 1stdegree connections. Focus on posting content that adds value not volume and put 90% of your focus into relationship-building activities. Post and engage consistently to increase your visibility and credibility for yourself and your organisation, and take the time to join conversations (which is also part of your content footprint) to build influence.
ACTIONS
- Update your LinkedIn Profile
- Review your current network and connection strategy – slow it down & practice search
- Review your content strategy – align to how you want to be known
- Review your engagement strategy
RESOURCES
- Download my slides to recap the session.
- Refer to my LinkedIn Profile Blueprint to access my frameworks to update your own profile.
LinkedIn Profile Blueprint Updates
If you would like to receive an update of my blueprint whenever it is updated (as LinkedIn changes) then feel free to sign up for updates via this LINK.
5 LinkedIn Mistakes
- 3rd Person – It is hard to connect with someone talking about themselves, so write in the first person.
- 1-way communication – Talking AT your network isn’t the best way to build relationships – Engage and talk WITH them.
- Incomplete – Minimal info and gaps can lead to questions. Increase your visibility and impact by completing each section of your profile.
- Out of date – If you haven’t touched your profile for 5 years, now is the time to review it. Update your profile images and content often to reflect who and where you are now.
- Not having one! – Not being found can hurt your professional brand. Make it easy for others to find, engage and reference you. Invest in your digital footprint.
ACTION
What are your top 3 actions or tips you took away from the presentation? Email me, message me or share with an image and @mention me on LinkedIn, or your social media platform of choice. If you or your organisation need some guidance or support, feel free to get in touch.