Mastering your LinkedIn Profile
From choosing the right photo and headline to crafting a strong summary and showcasing your experience, Chelsi walks you through the key sections that make the biggest impact.
Key Points: Optimising Your LinkedIn Profile
1. Purpose of LinkedIn
Build and showcase your personal professional brand.
Stay informed about your industry and trends.
Connect to current and future job opportunities.
2. Think of LinkedIn as a Digital Portfolio
It complements your CV rather than replacing it.
Focus on storytelling, impact, and value - not just duties.
3. Profile Essentials
Profile photo: Clear, professional, current, and authentic. Head-and-shoulders, no social or distracting images.
Headline: Don’t rely on the default job title - add personality and clarity.
About section: Your elevator pitch. Explain why you do what you do, your values, and how you add value (approx. 40 words).
Experience: Describe impact and outcomes, not responsibilities. Add context if the company is small.
4. Use Rich Media
Add videos, PDFs, presentations, photos, or links to bring your profile to life.
Only share content you have permission to use.
Rich media helps stop scrolling and increases engagement.
5. Additional Profile Optimisation
Add volunteer experience to show values and broader skills.
Customise your LinkedIn URL for a cleaner, more professional look.
Keep location, education, and ongoing learning up to date.
Add publications and request recommendations for credibility.
6. Job-Seeking Settings
Use “Open to Work” to signal availability to recruiters.
Settings last 90 days and offer partial privacy protection.
7. Engaging with Your Network
Follow relevant companies to stay updated on news and trends.
Follow industry influencers without needing to connect.
Follow hashtag topics relevant to your interests and expertise.
8. Sharing vs Publishing Content
Sharing content supports others; publishing builds your own thought leadership.
Authenticity and consistency matter more than volume.
Aim to post or share at least once per week.
9. Content Best Practices
Articles: 600 - 1000 words.
Videos: 30 - 60 seconds.
Rich media (videos and downloadable PDFs) performs best with LinkedIn’s algorithm.
Encourage conversation by asking questions and responding to comments.
10. Consistency and Metrics
Regular posting increases profile views and visibility.
Monitor profile views to track momentum.
Even modest, consistent activity can significantly boost reach.
Overall Message
Invest time in your LinkedIn presence.
Be intentional, authentic, and consistent.
Your profile and activity together shape how opportunities find you.