There is one simple thing everyone needs to get right when creating a Linked in Profile – create a stand out summary, known as the “About” section! This is the first key step to expanding your professional network. This is your digital introduction and a first impression (like a handshake or first words spoken when in person) it NEEDS to grab the attention of anyone your trying to attract, be it potential employers or other movers and shakers, and it will only do so IF it is unique and compelling!
So, what does a good “about” section include? Follow these 5 key principles and you will be on the right track!!
1. Focus on your Audience
Who do you want to find, read and value in your LinkedIn profile? Answer this before you start writing this section.
If you’re searching for a promotion, industry pivot, new business or a new venture, consider who could assist and craft a summary that makes them “want” you!
2. Embrace Authenticity, Honesty and Brevity
This is not the time to tell white lies or exert your dominance or superiority. The latter is off-putting, and the former destroys any rapport-building opportunities you had. A better choice is to write about your experience, what you bring to the team, business or industry and why you’re “passionate” about what you do!
Be brief. No need to elaborate on every claim you make
If you become long-winded, remove what doesn’t compel you to continue reading.
3. Be Personable
To ensure your LinkedIn profile doesn’t appear auto-generated, which has become a thing, add your persona to the copy. This isn’t the same as a CV summary, so there’s room to be humorous and light-hearted without losing your professional essence and etiquette.
When adding your personality to your writing, the trick is to show and not tell.
Rather than adding descriptors like “friendly” or “funny,” add brief anecdotes.
4. Explain the Work You Do
Those in your field should have a general understanding of what you do, but explaining this allows you to target keywords that will help your profile appear in search results. Another benefit to explaining what you do is providing clarity. As job titles change, a concise account of what you do can answer any ambiguity surrounding a job title…
5. Develop Your Closing Line
The final sentence in your profile summary should be the most compelling, a line that will drive action and increase engagement.
Talk about what motivates you, the mottos that inspire your work ethic, or summarize your vision.
And it goes without saying, but before you publish it, spell check and correct grammar – it’s amazing what you see!!!
So, there we have it.. my 5 key principles to follow when writing your summary – it’s not hard!
Get onto this today, whether your new to linked in or whether you’re a business owner who wrote there’s 5 years ago when first joining… a lot has changed in recent years and no doubt so have you! Keep it fresh!
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