TIME TO LOOK AT YOUR LINKED IN PROFILE

LinkedIn has become my main source when I want to know about a new prospect or a new client. I believe that many other businesses or consumer will check out a LinkedIn profile before making a buying decision.

• Choose the right picture: Make sure the picture is recent and that it looks like you. It must look professional and your face must make up 60 -70% of the frame. Smile with your eyes and make virtual eye contact with the reader.
• Customize the background: “A picture is worth a thousand words”, and the right background photo helps your page stand out, and can reinforce what you want people to know about you.
• Headline is very important; if possible state why you do what you do. It’s deigned to capture the reader’s attention and make them want to know more about you.
• Share your story: the summary is your chance to tell your own story. Don’t just use it to list your skills or job titles. Weave your experience into your story and the difference you make in your customers lives.
• Don’t use buzzwords!This year LinkedIn released a ranking of the Top Ten most over-used buzzwords on LinkedIn profiles. Since most everyone uses them, try to avoid them. Specialized, Leadership, Focused, Strategic, experienced, passionate, expert, creative, innovative and certified 

I highly recommend that you let your peers, current customers and your mentor read and comment on your profile before you publish it. There is a wealth of information, (check U-Tube) on how to write a good profile.

Several other important points:

• Work at growing your network.
• Request recommendations
• Show your thought-leadership with a blog

This is just a short overview of a very important part of growing a business. I have a 30-session course on how to best use linked in. Each session is approximately 45 minutes long. You are welcome to make an appointment and look at one or all.

We don’t have a choice on whether we DO social media, the question is how well we DO it.”  Erik Qualman