Create the Perfect LinkedIn Profile in Just 20 Minutes!

Looking to make your mark in your industry? A polished LinkedIn profile can help you stand out and uncover exciting new opportunities. Learn how to perfect your profile with these easy steps.

Did you know that LinkedIn generates 227% more leads than Facebook and Twitter? With over 18 years of experience, LinkedIn is the go-to platform for professionals like you who are eager to grow and make meaningful connections.

Gone are the days of simply listing your accomplishments. LinkedIn has evolved into a personal branding tool that allows you to tell your unique story. And that’s where our guide comes in. To unlock the full potential of LinkedIn, you need to invest some time in fine-tuning your profile.

As a marketer, you understand the power of words. It’s not just about the brands you’re associated with; it’s about painting a compelling picture with your story. In this LinkedIn optimization guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know:

– Best practices for crafting an outstanding LinkedIn profile
– The dos and don’ts of profile optimization
– How to use AI to create a truly perfect profile

Ready to create a standout LinkedIn profile? Let’s dive in!

Best Practices for Your LinkedIn Profile

Want to create a profile that will impress potential employers and clients? Keep these best practices in mind:

1. Remember that LinkedIn is your public resume.

Hiring managers and recruiters often turn to your LinkedIn profile to get a complete picture of who you are. Make sure your profile is polished and professional.

2. Visuals matter.

Just like in marketing, creating a good first impression is crucial. Utilize visuals to showcase your personal brand and make yourself memorable.

3. Fill out every section.

Each section of your profile is an opportunity to stand out and showcase your expertise. Take the time to complete each one thoroughly.

The Do’s and Don’ts of a Perfect LinkedIn Profile

Once you’ve optimized your profile using the tips above, it’s time to step back and evaluate. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter for your dream company. Would your profile make them stop and take notice?

If the answer is yes, then you’re on the right track. Let’s dive into the specific do’s and don’ts of profile optimization to ensure you’re presenting yourself in the best light possible.

Want to create a killer LinkedIn profile? Here’s what you need to do:

1. Get a clear profile photo:

It’s a no-brainer, but so many people skip this step. Including a clear photo helps recruiters put a face to your name. You can even take a well-lit selfie on a solid background if you don’t want to invest in a professional headshot.

2. Craft an attention-grabbing headline:

Don’t settle for a basic job title. Use your headline to showcase what you do and consider adding a subheadline to highlight your best results. Show, don’t tell, why you’re the best in your field.

3. Flaunt your work experience:

Think of LinkedIn as your personal bragging platform. In the Experience section, list your current job and past positions, and make sure to include brief descriptions of your accomplishments and recognition.

4. Optimize for skimmers:

Most people skim through profiles, so make yours easy to read. Keep your About section concise, break up text with paragraphs and bullet points, and make sure key information stands out.

5. Show off your expertise with videos:

Short-form videos are in high demand. Create a few showcasing your skills and add them to your Featured section for easy access.

6. Highlight your best skills:

Rank your top skills in order of importance and add them under the Skills & endorsements section. The more relevant skills, the better. Take a cue from successful TV personality Daymond John.

7. Get creative in your About section:

Tell your story in a way that hooks your audience. You can write in either first or third person and include testimonials from past managers or clients to showcase your awesomeness.

8. Use relevant keywords:

Boost your discoverability by including industry keywords throughout your profile, especially in your headline, subheadline, and About section. Look at job descriptions for inspiration.

9. Customize your cover photo:

Make the most of this valuable space by creating a background photo that highlights your skills and the results you achieve. Let it speak for you.

10. Don’t forget the additional profile sections:

LinkedIn offers various sections you can fill out, like Licenses & certifications, Volunteering, Courses, Honors & awards, and more. Take advantage of these sections to further enhance your profile.

Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date:

Your LinkedIn profile is like a living resume that should always be changing. As you progress in your career, take on new roles, work with different clients, and learn new skills, make sure your profile reflects those updates.

Set aside time every few months to review and update your profile. Remove keywords, bios, and titles that are no longer relevant.

Don’t forget to include your pronouns: Don’t leave any section of your LinkedIn profile blank if you can help it. Make sure to add your pronouns. Take a look at public speaker Simon Sinek’s profile for an example.

When creating your perfect LinkedIn profile, avoid these mistakes:

Avoid mentioning periods of unemployment:

Many of us experience bouts of unemployment for various reasons during our job search. However, it’s not necessary to include this information in your profile. Even if it leaves a gap in your work history, it’s better to focus on showcasing your skills and experience.

Avoid using buzzwords:

Leave the jargon for textbooks. Remember that real people are behind LinkedIn profiles, and using buzzwords can make it harder to connect with others. Be clear and concise about what you do instead of using overly complicated language.

Highlight your best achievements:

It’s great to have accomplishments like interning at the Smithsonian, but if you’re not a recent graduate, this might not be the most relevant achievement to highlight. Focus on showcasing the experiences and accomplishments that bring value to businesses or clients. Your list of achievements will grow over time, so choose the best ones to highlight.

Don’t close off your profile:

Avoid limiting your profile’s visibility to search engines. This defeats the purpose of having a LinkedIn profile. Make sure your profile is visible in LinkedIn searches by adjusting your privacy settings accordingly.

Don’t leave sections blank:

If you’re new to an industry, changing careers, or just starting out, you might not have all the relevant skills. However, don’t leave important sections of your profile blank. Invest time in acquiring the necessary skills, such as certifications from reputable organizations in your industry. Google and HubSpot, for example, offer certifications that can enhance your list of skills.

Use a recent profile picture:

It may be tempting to use an old profile picture, but it’s important to present yourself in the best light possible. Take the time to take a new headshot that accurately represents you and helps you stand out on your profile.

AI can help create the perfect LinkedIn profile:

If you’re unsure of how to create an engaging professional bio, try using Jasper. It’s an easy-to-use tool that generates a personalized bio based on your keywords and preferences. Simply input your information and let the AI do the work.

Ready to make the most out of your LinkedIn profile? Say hello to Jasper, your personal optimization assistant.

With Jasper by your side, you’ll learn exactly what recruiters, startups, and employers are searching for when they come across your profile.

But that’s not all. Jasper goes the extra mile to help you craft a profile that grabs attention and showcases your unique value. And guess what? This talented assistant doesn’t stop at just LinkedIn. From product descriptions to social media posts, ad copy to blog articles, Jasper has got you covered.

Don’t miss out on potential job opportunities. Let Jasper help you shine on LinkedIn and beyond.