So You’ve Created A LinkedIn Profile….Now What?
So You’ve Created A LinkedIn Profile….Now What?
People (just like you) regularly tell me:
- I’ve created a LinkedIn profile, but I don’t know what to do next.
- I’m worried that if I update my LinkedIn profile, my boss is going to think I’m looking for a new job
- I don’t need to use LinkedIn because I’m not actively selling
First of all: Congratulations on setting up a profile in the first place. This is a GREAT start.
Second of all: While LinkedIn may not be the “sexiest” of all the Social Media sites, it IS one of the most powerful.
LinkedIn is MORE than just your resume. It’s your business card AND your Rolodex as well.
It’s a great way to position you as an expert.
As Tom Peters wrote:
“Starting today you are a brand. You’re every bit as much a brand as Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop. To start thinking like your own favorite brand manager, ask yourself the same question the brand managers at Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop ask themselves: What is it that my product or service does that makes it different?
Give yourself the traditional 15-words-or-less contest challenge. Take the time to write down your answer. And then take the time to read it. Several times.”
You may not typically feel confident to boast about all your accomplishments (and frankly, no one likes a braggart anyway) but here, it’s expected that you showcase all your “wins”.
Start with a great first impression. It takes less than 9 seconds for someone to make up their mind about you. It all begins with:
- a professional photo
- a strong headline
- a stellar LinkedIn Summary.
But before you begin, you want to ensure you turn OFF your notifications. Here’s how:
Step 1: Click on your image (top right hand corner) Click on the “Review” link next to Privacy & Settings Re-enter your password
Step 2: Click “Select who can see your activity feed”
Step 3: Use the drop-down menu and change to “Only you” (You can change this option back once you’re finished)
DO YOU REALLY NEED TO USE LINKEDIN?
Now, for those of you who think you don’t need to spend time on LinkedIn because you’re not actively selling – you’re missing out on showcasing yourself as an expert!
I’ve worked with C-suite executives to optimize their LinkedIn presence because when prospective clients are Googling your business to see if you are trustworthy, and they see that you haven’t invested in your presence, they are going to think twice about whether or not they want to work with you.
LinkedIn is one of the highest ranked sites on Google. Don’t believe me? Google your name right now. What links pop up? What do people see when they Google you and your business? Even if we aren’t directly involved in sales, we are selling ourselves.
You are your own brand. Invest in it.
About Leslie Hughes
Leslie is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, Corporate Social Media Trainer and Principal of PUNCH!media. Founded in 2009, with clients such as The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, and The University of Ontario Institute of Technology’s Management Development Centre, PUNCH!media works with organizations to help them feel confident and develop a strong presence in Social Media.
From defining clear strategies, to content development and deployment, we help you save time and build business. Whether you’re using LinkedIn to connect with business associates or Facebook to connect with consumers, we help you connect with the right audience at the right time using the right channels. Is your LinkedIn profile optimized to position you as an expert and helping you convert business?
