- February 12, 2017
- Posted by: Con P. Sweeney
- Category: LinkedIn
A regular comment I hear from friends, clients, and prospects is that they’re thinking of “restarting” (their word not mine) their LinkedIn profile.
Usually, there is one of a variety of reasons for their wanting to do this, like:
“I’m getting a lot of LinkedIn connection requests and I think I should do something with them.”
“I’m starting a business because I’ve retired or laid off.”
“I’m looking for a new job.”
Whatever their reason, it always leads back to “restarting” their LinkedIn profile.
Let’s talk about that “restart”!
The reason for overhauling (my word not theirs) a LinkedIn profile is not as important as the final result.
The new profile needs to have several characteristics.
First, it has to be complete. (As in you have an “All Star” rating!)
All sections (e.g., header, summary, experience, education, etc.) need to be filled out.
The profile picture is especially important! (You know whom I’m talking about!)
Next, the profile needs to be current.
Current as up to date not mysteriously stopping a few years ago.
This also means that if you’re retired then you shouldn’t be using your college graduation photo!
Finally, the profile needs to be clear.
What did you do, where did you do it, whom did you do it for, and why should anyone care?
(That’s where you explain the value that you brought.)
But, before you even put pen to paper (I’m still somewhat old fashioned about my first drafts.) there are a few other points to consider before you begin your overhaul which will help you.
First, what is your primary objective here?
Starting a business is a very different goal from looking for a job.
Whom do you need to connect with on LinkedIn and how will you do it?
Trust me, sitting around waiting for connection requests is not a very effective strategy.
What content will you need to engage your connections with and to attract new connections not to mention showing everyone how good you are at what you do?
“Restarting” or overhauling a LinkedIn profile shouldn’t be undertaken lightly or you might end up with a poorer one than you have now.
(I’ve seen it happen!)
Look at the profiles of others and see what good ones look like.
Finally, just do it!
That’s it for now!
Also, never forget to reach out to either ask questions or to ask for help from someone like myself!
In the meantime, thank you for following and reading my blog!
I look forward to any and all comments that you may have. I will reply to any comments made to this blog post as promptly as I can.
Remember!
I do this for a living and if I can be of any assistance to either you or your organization, please feel free to call on me. Our initial discussion will be of no charge to you.