To: The Writing Prose
From: Huntley Bain
Date: October 21, 2019
Subject: Research Findings – LinkedIn Best Practices
As requested in Lesson 2.2, I have conducted research on LinkedIn best practices. Below I have outlined the top ten practices:
- Pick an appropriate and professional profile picture. This is the first impression for coworkers and potential employers
- Add a background photo. Most people do not have a background photo so adding this will draw more attention and make your profile more memorable. Additionally, it can showcase what is important to you (i.e. a social cause or employer).
- Your headline should be more than just your job title. You can use this to state your current position and why you are in the role or maybe a role you want to have in the future.
- Make your summary more than just a summary. You should explain why those skills are relevant and the summary should showcase your writing abilities and personality.
- Make connections. Add coworkers and watch your network grow. Additionally, make it routine to send LinkedIn Requests after meetings.
- Edit your LinkedIn web address and put it on your resume. This gives others the opportunity to explore previous experiences and connections.
- List all of your relevant skills and experiences. This includes volunteer and work experience that am seem irrelevant to your current profession. All experiences should be on your resume as they add value.
- Endorse others and do not be afraid to ask others for endorsements in return. Endorsements increase credibility but make sure these endorsements are relevant. Do not just ask anyone for one, ask those who you genuinely want an endorsement from.
- Be professional. Your activity can be seen by many and it is important to remember LinkedIn is not like every other social media platform. Make sure your content is career-related and you remain respectful.
- Update your profile and remain active. Comment on posts and share posts relevant to your profession.
LinkedIn has millions of users and is a great resource for students and professionals who are seeking connections for future employment or who want to remain up to date with colleagues. LinkedIn profiles should only be used professionally and should be updated regularly.
References
“17 Steps to a Better LinkedIn Profile in 2017.” Business Solutions on LinkedIn, https://business.linkedin.com/en-uk/marketing-solutions/blog/posts/content-marketing/2017/17-steps-to-a-better-LinkedIn-profile-in-2017.
Hecker, Sarah. “17 LinkedIn Marketing Best Practices.” SmartBug Media, https://www.smartbugmedia.com/blog/17-linkedin-marketing-best-practices.
York, Alex. “5 LinkedIn Best Practices for Marketing Professionals.” Sprout Social, 29 July 2019, https://sproutsocial.com/insights/linkedin-best-practices/.
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