Setting Up Your LinkedIn for Success

We have spoken time again about the importance of social media in our professional life. No matter what field you are in, social media is extremely important. If your job requires you to meet new people and connect with new businesses like real estate, then LinkedIn is extremely important to you!

Here is a cheat sheet to help you build a successful LinkedIn profile:

1. Professional photo

Remember, LinkedIn is a professional networking site. Your picture is most likely going to be the first thing a person sees; make sure it's an image that represents you and your business. The picture has to be a professional one, it should be clean and appealing.

2. Use a headline

Add a headline to depict your interest or skills rather than just your job title. It's important to pique your visitors' interest. A catchy headline will engage your visitor enough to scroll down and give your profile a thorough read.

3. Write a short but engaging summary

Take time and write this summary for your LinkedIn page. Your summary is the bread and butter of your profile; take this opportunity to tell your story. Make it interesting by showing off your background, skills, and interests such that your visitor is compelled to reach out to you.

4. Remember to endorse your friends

It is important to list all your skills on your profile. This is where your visitors get an overview of all that you know. Endorsing is nothing but putting a positive word for a connection. Make sure to endorse your connections' skills and they will surely return the favor.

5. Ask for and offer recommendations

When someone gives you a good recommendation, return the favor. Recommendations are a great way to showcase your value, expertise and experience. You can talk about how great you are, but it is even better when someone else talks about how great you are. Request a colleague or a manager who has seen your work first hand to write one for you, this adds tremendous value to your profile.

6. Post relevant content often

Be a thought leader in your industry by writing relevant content and sharing it with peers on LinkedIn. Try and post at least once a week with articles, reports or other items of interest to your network. With constant research and reading, you will have the knowledge of an industry expert!

7. Look at who's viewed you

Check out "Who's viewed your profile" and see if they are a connection worth making. Reach out and connect with those who may want to connect.

8. Update your profile!

Fill in all the areas in your profile, do not leave anything out! Update your profile with every major milestone you achieve. Treat LinkedIn like an online resume, which needs constant additions and updates.

If you want to be seen or move up in the corporate world, LinkedIn is a great way to do that. As you grow professionally, it is important to make your LinkedIn profile grow with you. Remember, your LinkedIn profile is a professional reflection of you' make sure it is in its Sunday best!

To view the original article, visit the Lone Wolf blog.