Written By: Dr. Erin Hill
Academic Chairperson (Business Department) | Aston American University
Join LinkedIn and create your profile:
1. Go to the LinkedIn sign up page.
2. Click the prompt.
3. Type your first and last name, email address, and a password you'll use.
4. Click Join now.
NEXT STEPS:
Professionally Taken Photograph
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital introduction and first impression with your reader. It’s important to look your best, and a professionally taken photograph will ensure you are portrayed in the best light!
Attention Getting Headline
Your LinkedIn headline is very much like a headline in a newspaper. It should grab your reader’s attention and compel them to read more!
Example: *Collaborative*Bilingual*International Project Manager*
Complete Experiences, Keyword-Rich
A powerful LinkedIn profile includes your past experiences. This area is highly sensitive when it comes to SEO (Search Engine Optimization). By including keywords that people are using to find someone like you, you are ensuring that your LinkedIn profile performs well in search and that you will have higher chances of being found.
Connections, Websites, Customized URL
In order to truly leverage LinkedIn, it’s important to have a strong LinkedIn network with many first degree connections. Connect to colleagues, coworkers, friends, family, etc. Don't forget to connect with your educational institutions; for example, list Aston American University as a connection.
Compelling, Interesting Summary
Your LinkedIn Summary needs to POP! This is your chance to demonstrate to the world that you are an expert and someone who deserves to be noticed! This is where you sell yourself and showcase your accomplishments.
Clear Call to Action
It’s important to tell your reader what to do once they’ve finished reading your LinkedIn summary. Tell them how to reach you! How many opportunities are you missing because you didn’t include your contact information?
REMEMBER: Your LinkedIn profile is NOT your resume. Your resume is your career history and often task-based. Your LinkedIn profile is your CAREER FUTURE! It’s who you are, how you help people, and why you deserve to be noticed. A POWERFUL LinkedIn profile sells YOU!
