We all know how essential our online profiles have become – especially when it comes to networking and developing business relationships. If you have a LinkedIn profile, then you’re probably already familiar with how useful it is in building a network of colleagues and contacts. But here are some things to keep in mind to make sure you’re putting your best out there in the most professional way.
5 Tips and Etiquette Points for LinkedIn
1) Keep your profile picture current & polished – Your picture and profile are the first impressions people will get of you on LinkedIn. If a recruiter or employer are looking through potential candidates, they’ll want to see updated photos (at least within the last couple of years) that match your work persona. Wear minimal makeup and a clean, sharp outfit with modest jewelry.
2) Don’t use a social picture for your corporate profile –This is an extension of number one but it needs to be mentioned. LinkedIn isn’t really the place to be posting photos of yourself at parties with a drink in your hand. Even if your job is to plan parties, this is not appropriate. Also, make sure it’s only you in the photo – not a group shot or one where you’ve cut somebody out. Keep your pictures professional.
3) Keep your resume info current and relevant to your desired position – Even if you’re current and happily employed, you should keep your relevant experience and information up to date on any corporate site. It adds to your credibility and professionalism.
4) Endorse your contacts – Be generous in endorsing your contacts for skills that you know they possess. You’ll want the favor returned. Endorsements help add leverage to your experience.
5) Edit the topics on which you’d like to be endorsed – If you want to portray yourself as an expert on a certain topic or within a certain industry, make sure you have the right skills set up for others to endorse. You can add or remove topics based on your preference and expertise to ensure people are categorizing you exactly as you’d like them to.
And if you need a little refresher or quick guide on what not to say on social media, check out my list and see how you stack up! For more tips on how to keep your profiles clean, check out my post on how to manage your online reputation.
