LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network with 722+ million members. This professional social networking site is used to network and develop business connections and much more in the professional world. With this site, users are able to connect with anyone around the world as there are more than 706 million members in 200 countries and regions worldwide according to LinkedIn Registered Users. 

HubSpot found that LinkedIn is 277% more effective at generating leads than Facebook or Twitter. LinkedIn can be very efficient in helping you find a job, find connections for a job, or overall, just creating an online resume builder for in the future when you may need a job. This platform specializes in specialization. You can take advantage of its opportunities by following big corporations, posting updates on your current projects, and much more. 

Take advantage of the summary!

“A summary of 40 words or more will make your profile more likely to turn up in your future employers search” – LinkedIn 

The summary portion can be up to 2,000 characters but you don’t have to use them all. Be sure to use this area to mention who you are, what you do, any opportunities you may be searching for, what you have to offer, and link to examples of your work. 

Here are 10 LinkedIn profile summary examples 

Complete your profile

Don’t leave any part of your profile unfinished. 

LinkedIn’s internal search algorithm only finds profiles that rank as “complete”. So, if you want to get noticed, it is important that you finish yours! 

1. Add a professional-looking profile picture with no distractions in the background. 
2. Include a banner photo or background photo that represent who you are and your personality/professionalism. 
3. Don’t forget the summary!
4. Regularly update your header. Include where you currently work and the location. 
5. Add your work history, education, skills and areas of expertise, and any examples of work you have done

Start Connecting 

Interested in baking? Even just as a hobby? Look up and search for your favorite bakery or baker and give them a follow. Search your interests or specialties and find those who share the same interests as you. Find profiles that publish tips and tricks in your industry and stay updated on the most current trends. Connect with friends from high school, college, and the current/past companies you have worked for. 

“The number of connections that you have affects your search ranking on LinkedIn. It’s a good idea to aim for at least 50 ‘first-degree’ connections”. – mindtools.com

First-degree connections = those directly under your list called My Network 

Post, post, post!

Start posting! And post often, but be conscious of what you are posting. LinkedIn is a business platform, so be professional. It is not a site for you to post about how you took your dog on a walk unless you include an invoking thought that you came up with while taking your dog on a walk. 

Read here for 101 ideas on what to post on LinkedIn

Use LinkedIn for your professional but quirky side. Talk about industry related topics, tips and tricks for those ne wot your industry or career, share a silly meme that’s relevant, etc. Those following want to see what you have been doing but, in your career, not your family life, unless it relates to your career. Use LinkedIn to promote your professional self while maintaining your personality. 

Endorse and Recommend

Not only is it important to stay connected but it is highly recommended to recommend and endorse! Boosting those around you could help someone land their dream job, which in turn can help you increase your recommendations and endorsed skills. When someone endorses you for your writing skills, even though it is already on your skills list, it shows employers that you are qualified for that skill beyond your own thinking but in the eyes of others. 

Endorsed skills and personal recommendations can help you stand out from the crowd and increase the chances of your profile being selected when an employer is searching for someone in your related field. 

Click here for a Beginners Guide to LinkedIn

Unsure of why you aren’t finding what you are looking for on Facebook or Twitter? Sign up and get started with LinkedIn today. Build your professional profile, search and apply for qualified jobs, connect with other professionals, and learn more about your industry or an industry you are interested in. Click here to sign-up now!