Three LinkedIn Guidelines I Give My Clients

Every so often, I come across folks who simply don’t feel a need for a LinkedIn profile. They network offline and, for them, it works. I’m a fan of the idea that professionals and small organizations can leverage their resources by having a presence online. But in the end, I advise my clients to take their LinkedIn profile as far as they are comfortable, within a few general guidelines.

Stay real.
I recently found a profile where someone stated they had “copious” experience. I know what they’re trying to say, but within the context of the rest of the profile it sounded like a reach for a .50 cent word when a lesser word would have done a better job. Stay real to your own personality. Don’t try to sound like someone else. Laura Smith-Proulx, an executive resume writer, has some great practical advice on phrases to avoid in your profile.

Stay original.
Don’t copy another LinkedIn profile. Can you use other profiles for inspiration? Yes. But just copying and pasting? No. It isn’t authentic, and the risk you run of a potential employer or client finding out that you “borrowed” someone else’s Summary or (heaven forbid) Experience is not worth it.

Proof it.
Want to play around with your profile a bit? Check spelling, sleep on it, and then have a friend read it over. To keep all of your connections from receiving updates throughout this process, turn off your activity broadcasts (go to Settings, then Privacy Controls). If this seems a little overwhelming, we can help.

Once you’ve finished editing your profile, definitely turn your broadcasts back on. You’re ready for prime time!