LinkedIn – develop your profile, stand out from the crowd, get the job you want

There has never been a better time to start looking at Brand You and developing a professional and compelling biography on the business networking site LinkedIn.  Launched in May 2003 LinkedIn has grown to be the largest business network on the planet with over 259+million users across the globe using the network in 20 languages (the top 4 countries are USA, India, Brazil and the UK).

It’s a powerful online platform that on a basic level serves as a job search function and business network.  It has been the job search function that has fuelled the need to update and maintain an active resume on the site.  Many people only use this very basic functionality on LinkedIn which is focused on job search and find and therefore their profile is simply a billboard for their CV.  Whilst this has been an understandable evolution of the network it is time to review your profile on LinkedIn and ensure that you are doing all you can to stand out from the crowd and make sure your profile is seen by the right people.  To do this there are a number of key areas you can ensure are in place and optimise  Hubspot have created the ultimate cheat sheet which allows you to get down to business quickly and hopefully reap rewards even more quickly – here’s a few to kick off

• Your summary – here you have the opportunity to really develop a compelling proposition about your or your company. Take advantage of this area to really sell and promote your services.
• In your profile section add presentations, videos or any images that represent work you have done or are doing. One area which is underutilised is to include a video biography in this area which allows people to hear and see you and what you have to offer.
• Join targeted groups and start taking part in the conversation by posting interesting and relevant articles
• Upgrade to a premium account where you can take advantage of additional images e.g. large banner background at the top of the page – here you can layer the look and feel of your brand and include additional products and services – a great opportunity to create a impactful first impression.