Create a dynamic Linkedin profile
With many of readjusting to the post-covid world, it’s key to showcase yourself in the best possible light professionally – and the first point of contact is online. Personal branding expert shows us how to make an impact
‘FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT, so it’s important to build a Linkedin profile that packs a punch,’ says social media specialist Claire Durrant. ‘Your Linkedin profile is your professional online presence and will be viewed by employers, business partners, colleagues and investors. So, whether you’re looking for a job or using Linkedin to grow your business, it’s never been more important to ensure your profile works for you.’
Claire Durrant
CHOOSE A PROFILE PHOTOGRAPH that reveals your personality. Use something recent and recognisable, and ensure your file name includes your name, location and keywords because Google indexes Linkedin profile photos, for example, ‘Claire-durrant-cambridgepersonal-branding.jpg’.
WRITE A HEADLINE that captures attention and gives a rounded idea of who you are and what you have to offer. In which area or industry are you an expert? How do you help others? Instead of saying you are a ‘finance manager’, try ‘corporate finance manager, helping business leaders create financial security’.
OPEN WITH AN ATTENTION-GRABBING FIRST LINE in your ‘About’ section. Focus on your achievements or projects that you’re proud of rather than a list of former jobs. Write in the first person, not third. Make it personal. Share your passion for your profession. Don’t forget to use industry keywords.
ADD YOUR BEST-PERFORMING POSTS in your ‘Featured’ section or links to ventures that were a resounding success for you – this is your opportunity to illustrate what excites you and show people why they should work with you.
DON’T JUST LIST YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES in the ‘Experience’ section – focus on projects that have fired you up. Let your enthusiasm for your work shine through.
LISTING YOUR EDUCATION not only validates your skills, it aids recruiters when matching your profile to positions that require certain qualifications.
ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS from colleagues and your boss – they are a powerful way of giving your skills ‘social proof’.
CUSTOMISE your URL so you’re easy to find, for example: linkedin.com/in/claire-durrant
Get free Linkedin and online personal branding training at clairedurrant.me