Bellvue Students recently complied an infographic detailing what everyone should have on their LinkedIn profile to make it superb. Broken down into almost 20 tips, the graphic is a perfect jumping off point for new users and a nice refresher for seasoned professionals.

Word up

First and foremost, make sure you’re using strong and relevant keywords that will help you both show up in a search and also help add flair to your skills and endorsements section.

Selecting skills that highlight your professional experience help give onlookers a sense of what you’d bring to the table.

Since words are significant, and we all know pictures a worth a thousand of them, it is important to have an inviting and professional headshot on your profile; try for a neutral, non-distracting background. Also, jazz up your profile with a nice (and appropriate) background/cover photo that will make your page memorable to visitors.

Hello My Name Is…

For your name and headline, make sure you are using your full and professional name. Then appropriately utilize the 120 characters of the headline by clearly explaining what you do.

Being as specific as possible helps employers know that you’re a strong potential candidate.

Adding a specified industry to your profile helps ensure the perusal process. In addition, adding your full location is also a bonus. Then, add a personalized URL to your page to make it easier for users to come back to you.

Sell yourself

Now, back to words. LinkedIn allows users to publish posts and this gives browsers an idea of who you are and how you operate.

Continue putting your writing skills to use when creating your summary, as that is what helps sell you.

We now get into the resume-ish aspect of LinkedIn, where you create a detailed summary with experience. Again, this is where you’ll be selling yourself so make sure you’re highlighting the right things. LinkedIn also allows you to use media to add videos, Power Points, etc. to this section. Below this, add in any certificates you have relating to professional fields.

LinkedIn.edu

Then, you can show off past projects and publications that highlight your professional experience. Following this, you will go into detail about your past education; this section is crucial for networking as it can connect you with fellow alumni.

Speaking of connections, it is recommended to have around 300 connections to really have an active LinkedIn network. These connections can write recommendations on your profile that will help give you an edge. Continue networking by joining groups having to do with your career.

Lastly, make it easy for employers and connections to contact you by including your email address, phone number, and social media accounts in your profile.

On this competitive platform of professionalism, it is important to make yourself accessible.

#LinkedInPro