Should I hire a LinkedIn Profile Writer or Trainer in 2026?

As we head into 2026, LinkedIn isn’t what it used to be, and neither is the job market, sales landscape, or digital visibility game.

With AI tools like ChatGPT cranking out copy in seconds, many professionals are asking:
Do I still need to hire someone to help with my LinkedIn profile or training?

The answer? It depends. But, here’s what’s changed, and why experts like myself are still in demand.


What’s Changed on LinkedIn in 2026?

  • LinkedIn’s new algorithm (360Brew) prioritizes clarity, structure, and relevance, not just buzzwords

  • Profiles and resumes are now scanned by AI before human eyes get a chance to see it. The quality of your language now affects how often you’re seen

  • More people than ever are publishing generic, AI-written content. This meaning differentiation is now critical

Today, LinkedIn isn’t about dumping your resume. It’s about making an impression that leads to action.


What a LinkedIn Profile Writer or Trainer Really Brings

A professional doesn’t just write. They position. They challenge. They translate.

I often say “when you’re inside the jar, you cannot see the label”.

I know how to ask you the right questions so you can get out of your own way and see the value that you bring.

A great LinkedIn profile writer should:

  • Help you define your superpower and showcase how you want to be seen (without feeling like you’re bragging)

  • Understand whose attention you’re trying to obtain: clients, partners, investors, hiring managers
  • Craft a strategic profile that is optimized for both AI and human readers

  • Turn your experience into a cohesive and compelling narrative

  • Avoid the “ChatGPT feel” that turns off real decision-makers (let’s get rid of the em-dashes and emojis!)

  • Know what LinkedIn’s 2026 algorithm actually values and how to feed it

AI can write. A strategist can position you.


When Should You DIY vs. Hire?

DIY might be fine if:

  • You’re interested in sounding like everyone else
  • You’re early in your career or just testing things out

Hire a LinkedIn profile writer if:

  • You want a profile that helps you “stand out with your brand out”

  • You’re a senior leader, executive, consultant or speaker who is interested in a complete turnkey solution

  • You want to attract leads, opportunities, or media attention, not just profile views

Hire a LinkedIn Trainer if:

  • Your team isn’t using LinkedIn to its full potential
  • You want to empower employees to become brand ambassadors and 10x your brand messaging.
  • You need to align your company’s presence across leadership and sales teams
  • You want to turn LinkedIn into a business development or recruiting tool
  • You’re ready to turn passive profiles into active visibility and influence drivers

AI can generate words but it can’t capture nuance, experience, or strategy. That’s where I come in.

A LinkedIn Trainer can help you:

  • Obtain opportunities – internal promotions, job opportunities, building relationships, closing sales deals

  • Find job offers in weeks, not months (especially hidden job opportunities)

  • Attract clients directly from LinkedIn searches

  • Build confidence in how they show up online

You don’t  just want a “meh” profile, what you want it is outcomes.


Ready to Make 2026 the Year You Actually Get Noticed?

Let’s make sure your LinkedIn presence isn’t just “updated.” Let’s make it irresistible to the people you want to reach.

If we haven’t met, I’m Leslie Hughes – I help experienced professionals become visible and in-demand on LinkedIn through profile writing and practical LinkedIn training.

Contact me at leslie@punchmedia.ca to get started

About Leslie Hughes

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, LinkedIn Top Voice, and Corporate Trainer with over 25 years in digital marketing. As the Principal of PUNCH!media and author of "CREATE. CONNECT. CONVERT," Leslie helps executives elevate their LinkedIn profiles to attract clients and generate leads. Named a LinkedIn Top Voice in 2024, Leslie was called a "Social Media Guru" by CBC Radio and was featured on CTV’s “The Social” discussing how to manage your digital identity. Leslie has been working in digital marketing since 1997 and founded PUNCH!media in 2009. Recognized as an expert in LinkedIn optimization, AI-driven marketing, and digital identity management, her clients include top organizations like Investment Planning Counsel and Franklin Templeton. Ready to elevate your LinkedIn profile and transform your marketing strategy? Learn more at www.punchmedia.ca