Boasting a staggering 950 million members in its community, (as at July 2023) standing out amidst such a vast crowd on LinkedIn may seem daunting. However, it all begins with crafting a compelling LinkedIn summary, and here are five simple tips to achieve just that.
1.Focus on the Essentials:
Your LinkedIn summary serves as the starting point for your profile, particularly for first-time visitors and new connections who may not know you yet. With a generous character limit of 2,600 (about 400 words) resist the temptation to fill the space with unnecessary details. Instead, think strategically about what truly matters. Identify your target audience, consider what they need to know about you, and highlight what makes you unique. A captivating summary should immediately engage readers and convey your story within the first few sentences, as only the initial three lines are visible before the "See More" click.
2.Embrace Authenticity:
LinkedIn is your personal space, where you can truly showcase yourself. Regardless of being affiliated with a company, remember that your profile reflects your personal education and professional journey. So, don't be afraid to inject some fun and celebrate your uniqueness. Allow your personality to shine through, as this authenticity will be rewarded with positive outcomes.
3.Reveal Personal Motivations:
Don't shy away from delving into the 'why' behind your career choices. Share your passions, what drives you, and the joy you find in your business. By doing so, you create a narrative that appeals to potential work projects and clients that align with your values and interests. Your LinkedIn summary is an opportunity to proudly present your strengths and motivations.
4.Showcase Your Skills:
LinkedIn is primarily a platform for connecting talented professionals, making it the perfect place to confidently display your expertise. Utilise the "Skills" section to select up to five top strengths you want to be known for and be easily searchable. These skills will prominently appear on your LinkedIn page, complementing your summary and allowing visitors to recognise precisely what sets you apart.
5.Encourage Engagement:
View your LinkedIn summary as just the beginning of exciting professional stories to come. Encourage further connection and conversation by incorporating a call to action. Include your email address, share your social media handles, and invite new connections to message you directly. By fostering engagement, you open doors to potential opportunities and fruitful interactions.
LinkedIn is a unique social media platform that can significantly impact your business trajectory. Embrace it fully, allowing your genuine self to shine through and putting your best foot forward in the digital realm. With the right LinkedIn summary, you'll be well on your way to taking your business to new heights.