With almost 500 million existing profiles and a geographical reach of 200 countries and two new members registering every second, LinkedIn is changing the professional landscape and making it easier for companies to connect with you. 

A professional online profile is therefore crucial to get noticed by recruiters and employers. Staffing specialist Walters People gives 5 quick ways to pimp your LinkedIn profile today to make the most of your experience. 

1. Choose a professional profile picture 

When you choose to include a photo on your LinkedIn profile, you are as much as 36 times more likely to receive a LinkedIn message. Users with a professional-looking photo are even 14 times more likely to be seen. Make sure you choose a photo with a front view, a professional setting and smile. Name the file firstname.lastname.jpg before uploading it so you can be found quickly in Google. 

2. Write a clear summary  

Your summary is your personal brand statement. It is the ultimate opportunity to tell your story and introduce yourself to potential profile viewers. Make sure you list new achievements and name your ambitions regarding the kind of job you might want to move into. Conclude your summary with a call to action to your reader, telling how best to reach you. 

3. Include supporting media and documents 

Post documents such as presentations, white papers and images of your work that can support your profile. Always make sure you have permission to share your work publicly, especially if it contains commercially sensitive information. 

4. Mention your current experience and record achievements 

Your LinkedIn profile is basically your online CV, so even if you do not want to change jobs, it is important to update your current experience with new achievements. Things to include are certifications, courses, awards, languages, projects, and publications. Also consider what charity or volunteer work you have done that can be added to your profile. Make sure you have included your education history and that you have added your school, college, or university to the LinkedIn list, as this will also provide opportunities for alumni networking. 

5. Add contacts and join groups 

Effective networking with your peers can be key to achieving your career goals by making contacts that can open new opportunities for you. Go through your list of contacts and see who is in your network. Are there people you have met recently that you may not have added yet? If so, contact them with a follow-up message. Also consider colleagues you work with or new clients you are not connected with and add them to your network. 

Take some time to review which groups you are currently a member of. There are new groups you can join to expand your network or leave others because they are no longer relevant.

 

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