Aside from the basic housekeeping tasks such as keeping your profile as up to date as possible, continually establishing connections and filling out your profile in its entirety – there are many additional tasks you can perform to ensure you make the most out of your LinkedIn presence.
Below are three tips for you to apply to your LinkedIn profile:
1. Customize Your URL. This is one of the first steps to take when creating a profile. LinkedIn provides you with the opportunity to customize your URL, so for example, my URL is http://www.linkedin.com/in/erikabarbosa. Aside from the aesthetic benefits to a personalized URL, this will give you another chance to own more search engine real estate. Google sees LinkedIn in high regards and when performing a Google search for your name, a customized URL will most likely show as a result.
2. Weave In Keywords Within Your Profile. LinkedIn gives you the opportunity to include anchor text within the website section of your profile, so take advantage of it. Google not only gives you an opportunity to rank for these keywords, but also for keywords woven into your profile.
3. Answer Questions. Establish yourself as a thought leader or expert in your field by answering questions. Potentially earn the star of expertise by simply answering questions [via public responses]. You will then gain a point of expertise each time the questioner picks your answer as the best or most helpful. In turn, the more points you earn of expertise, the higher your profile will appear on lists of experts.
LinkedIn provides a lot of flexibility for optimizing your profile, but don’t feel overwhelmed. It is unfortunate that many create an account but then don’t really leverage their presence to its fullest potential. Set attainable goals for yourself to optimize your profile little by little. LinkedIn is not only a great place to network but it is also an excellent platform to help others within their own professional careers.
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