By Pamela Zisimopoulos
As college students, LinkedIn has become integrated into our daily lives. “LinkedIn” has become a buzzword heard from our professors, friends, and classmates. We are constantly told by professors and career advisors that we should have LinkedIn profiles, and our colleagues around us are asking us, “can you connect with me on LinkedIn?” “Have you looked on LinkedIn for internships?”
With about 46 million college students using LinkedIn, you might be thinking, “How can I possibly set myself apart?” It is not enough to simply have a LinkedIn profile. In order to put yourself out there and display all of your successes to the maximum number of people, you need to have a good LinkedIn profile. Here are 5 ways to make your LinkedIn profile stand out.
1. Have a Good Profile Picture of Yourself
The first thing people notice about your LinkedIn profile is your profile picture. A professional headshot is essential. A professional-looking headshot can help you appear more credible and personable. Your picture should be of high quality and well-lit, and you should dress suitably for your industry. But most importantly, make sure that this is a picture that you are confident about! If your picture has all of the elements I stated, but you’re not feeling confident in it, don’t use it! Confidence is key.
2. Include a Backdrop Picture
LinkedIn background images are an amazing way to express your unique identity and make your profile stand out. It is a large banner graphic that appears beneath your profile photo and can aid in the development of your professional identity. Choose an image that is relevant to your industry or personal hobbies, and make sure it is high-quality and visually appealing. For example, my backdrop is a professional picture of the Brooklyn Bridge, because I’m from Brooklyn and it is a big part of my identity. Almost every time I land an interview from LinkedIn, talent acquisition complements my backdrop. A well-chosen background image will assist you in developing a memorable and distinct LinkedIn profile.
3. Create a Headline Beyond a Job Title
Your LinkedIn headline is an important aspect of your profile and should express more than your job title. Making a headline that is more than just your job title might help you highlight your unique selling features and make your profile more appealing to potential connections. Employ industry-related keywords, showcase your accomplishments or talents, and demonstrate your personality. A good headline can pique the interest of readers and entice them to learn more about your profile.
4. Make the “About Me” Section Your Story
The “About Me” section on your LinkedIn profile provides an opportunity to showcase your professional journey and highlight your skills and achievements. It is a chance to tell your story. To make the most of this section, be specific about your experience and accomplishments, and demonstrate your expertise in your field. Make sure to showcase your values, as this can help you connect with like-minded professionals and attract potential employers or clients. A well-crafted “About Me” section can make your profile more memorable and engaging.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Post!
LinkedIn is a social media platform, and it’s essential to engage with your connections. Share relevant industry news, your thoughts on a recent trend, or an interesting article. Posting is also a great way to keep your network updated about any recent job offers you have received, any accomplishments you have achieved, or any announcements you may have. Since there are so many users on LinkedIn, information can get mixed up or lost. Posting ensures that you are one step ahead and that you are popping up on people’s feeds.
In conclusion, a LinkedIn profile is an essential tool in today’s job market. By having a good profile picture, including a backdrop picture, creating a headline beyond a job title, making the “About Me” section your story, and not being afraid to post, you can make your LinkedIn profile stand out and attract potential employers or clients. Remember, your LinkedIn profile is a representation of your personal brand, so make sure it’s professional and reflects your best self.
