Most people think LinkedIn is just a resume site, but it’s so much more.

It is the world’s largest business networking site where professionals are investing time.

There are a few ways you can ensure you stand out from the crowd and make a strong first impression. Using visuals to PUNCH up your presence can enhance it even more. Here’s how:

1) Your professional photo is the first impression and makes the biggest impact. 
Click here to find out how to put your best face forward on LinkedIn.

2) Add Multimedia. 
Include videos, PowerPoint presentations, to showcase a portfolio of your work or a catalogue of your products.
Click here to find out how to add multimedia on LinkedIn

3) NEW! Add a background cover photo to your LinkedIn profile
This new functionality can really make your presence POP.
If you haven’t received this notice (below) your opportunity to include a background image will be rolling out to all members very soon.

LinkedInCustomBackground

FREE Downloadable Template: LinkedIn Profile Background Cover Photo Template

linkedin-cover-templatebyPUNCHmedia

linkedin-cover-templatebyPUNCHmedia.psd

I love helping businesses and professionals create a LinkedIn profile they can be proud of, so I have provided a FREE Photoshop template you can download to create your own customized, LinkedIn profile cover image.

Please feel free to download my PSD (photoshop) template here and share it with your friends and colleagues.

TOP TIPS: 

  • Ensure your image is at least 1400 x 425 pixels
  • Be mindful of the placement of your professional profile photo, and the copy blocks (as outlined in red)
  • There is a shadow where ads appear in a grey overlay (as outlined in grey)
  • Before you upload your final image, remove the layers I have left in as placeholders.

Get inspired to visually tell your personal brand or professional “story”: 

  • Include some of the logos of key clients you have worked with
  • Use calls-to-action with easy ways people can contact you
  • Upload images of your staff or team. Display your corporate culture
  • Highlight milestones or company “wins”
  • Use your tagline or favourite quote

If you want to get on the list for early access click here: http://specialedition.linkedin.com/custom-backgrounds/

Remember: Always stay true to your brand and think about your objectives. What message are you trying to convey?

Always represent your business properly. This is the professional network after all.

I’ve love to see the finished product! Post your thoughts below or tweet me at @punchmediadotca. 

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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 on LinkedIn and other Social Media sites.

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 connect you with the right audience at the right time using the right channels.

Contact Leslie for a customized quote for strategy development, and/or training.

www.punchmedia.ca
leslie (at) punchmedia.ca

About Leslie Hughes

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, LinkedIn Top Voice, and Corporate Trainer with over 25 years of experience in digital marketing and LinkedIn profile writing. As the Principal of PUNCH!media and author of "CREATE. CONNECT. CONVERT," Leslie helps executives and professionals optimize their LinkedIn profiles, generate leads, and attract higher-paying clients. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice—an exclusive honor from LinkedIn—Leslie is a trusted authority on LinkedIn profile optimization, AI-driven marketing strategies, and digital identity management. Her expertise has been featured on CBC Radio, where she was called a "Social Media Guru," and on CTV’s "The Social," where she shared strategies for managing digital identity. Leslie empowers professionals to leverage generative AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance marketing strategies, boost efficiency, and create impactful content that converts. She helps businesses understand how to use LinkedIn for lead generation and how AI can revolutionize their digital marketing efforts. Leslie has worked with top organizations like Investment Planning Counsel, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, JLL, and Franklin Templeton, optimizing LinkedIn profiles and providing corporate training that delivers measurable results. Leslie is a former college professor and co-lead instructor for Ontario Tech University’s Social Media Marketing and Digital Management Certificate. Whether you need a LinkedIn profile writer, corporate trainer, or AI marketing specialist, Leslie Hughes can help you elevate your digital presence and transform your marketing strategy. Ready to take your LinkedIn profile and corporate training to the next level? Learn more at www.punchmedia.ca.