LinkedIn is a tool used to build professional relationships so it is important it is updated to reflect the current version of you.
Refresh your LinkedIn profile photo
It’s important to update your profile photo, ensure it is taken facing forward with a professional backdrop and a smile. When uploading the file ensure you name it yourname.jpg this will help you stay at the top of Google and Google image searches when your name is entered.
Revise your LinkedIn profile summary
Your summary is an opportunity to tell your story and introduce yourself to prospective profile viewers. Ensure you include any new achievements and career aspirations as to what types of roles you may be seeking to move into. Conclude your summary with a call to action as to what next steps you want the reader to take.
Add supporting media and documents
Review any documents such as presentations, whitepapers and images of your work that can support your profile. This will boost your visual portfolio and support your written profile. Always ensure you have permission to share your work publicly, especially if there is commercially sensitive information included within it.
Update your current experience & record achievements
Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume, so even if you are not looking to change roles it is important to update your current experience with any new achievements. Things to include are certifications, courses, awards, languages, projects and publications. Also reflect on any charity or volunteering work you may have done which can be added to your profile.
Ensure that your education is up to date by adding your school, college or university from the LinkedIn list. This will open up opportunities for alumni networking.
Review your contacts and groups
Go through your connections list and review who is in your network – are there people you have met with recently that you may not have added? If so, reach out with a follow up message. Also look to colleagues you work with or new clients that you are not connected with and add them to your network. Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume, so even if you are not looking to change roles it is important to update your current experience with any new achievements
Take the time to review which groups you are a member of and whether you are engaging to get the most value professionally. Perhaps there are new groups you can join to broaden your network or leave others that are no longer relevant. A quick review of your group memberships will ensure you get the most value professionally and open up new opportunities.