If you’re a part of LinkedIn you’ve seen it again and again. You’re looking for someone who’s qualified to answer an important question or fill a key job opening. You’ve discovered a promising name and title. But when you click on their LinkedIn profile, the information is sadly incomplete. So you quickly move on to another name.

Now what about you? Is your profile complete – offering the viewer a true sense of your capabilities and personality? Are your words spelled correctly and are your grammar and writing style intelligent and professional? If not, you’re making a weak first impression. That could cost you to miss out on your next valuable opportunity!

LinkedIn can’t work for you if you don’t put a little work into it. Try these easy ways to quickly improve your profile.

1) Write your information in first person and make sure it’s current.
2) Personal Headline: Use your title along with words that best describe the services you provide. Be sharp. Space is limited.
3) Use a professional profile picture, headshot only please, and smile.
4) Update your status and make sure the status has value to the viewer. This keeps you top-of-mind to others.
5) The Summary is a great area to put a personal spin on who you are. Share your experiences, specialties and skills sets. Focus on results and share what you expect in a solid business relationship.

As a marketing agency, everything we do revolves around strengthening brands. We emphasize the importance of a business’ brand, as well as the personal brands of key individuals within the company – applying these same concepts to our clients’ personal brands. We provide profile consultation, setup and training, on both the individual and group levels.

Remember, the first impression is vitally important. Once the door is open, your personality and capabilities can shine through. There are more ways you can put LinkedIn to work building your brand and improving your workday, but that’s for next time.

About LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a trusted online networking tool utilized to extend your network and gain business contacts. LinkedIn currently has 50 million members with a growth rate of 1.5 million per month. LinkedIn is free to use, but there are additional services available for a reasonable fee.