10 Ways to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand OutWhen it comes to your LinkedIn profile you might miss the opportunity to create a stellar impression. It’s not enough to just complete your profile – it is critical to write a profile using the best strategies and tactics to increase your profile views and the number of opportunities on your radar.

Sell yourself.

Your headline should be catchy. Your title and company may require explanation. It should contain your email address as well.

Share valuable content.

Publishing posts or sharing relevant articles will increase the number of profile views, connection requests, and followers. It’s social proof that builds your following and enhances your credibility. Regularly share your status with posts on your News Feed along with other updates to gain exposure outside of your network. Make sure you’re creating value.

Optimize for LinkedIn Search.

Be sure to include industry keywords so you will be found in searches. For keyword ideas, search for examples of your ideal role’s job spec, candidates that are currently in the position and company, or request for proposal specification documents.

Use other mediums.

Display rich media such as video or your portfolio work to further illustrate your value proposition. Studies have shown that adding video has increased website conversion rates.

Get descriptive.

Be precise in your job history descriptions – quantify each achievement, preface each bullet point with an action verb, demonstrate skills competencies, and what problems you have solved for clients and companies.

Tweak your profile for more endorsements.

Drag the Endorsements section to the top of your profile, above the fold so that connections can more easily endorse you. Place more important skills at the top. Include key skills that are required to land your next gig or client.

Reach out to get connections.

Be indiscriminate about accepting connection requests. I accept all requests – they could potentially endorse you for multiple skills, share your profile to their network, and expand your reach. You should aim to have 500+ connections on your profile. When sending out connection requests, try to modify the default message to something more personalized.

Join relevant and large groups.

Contribute regularly to discussion groups to gain further exposure.

Get recommended.

Ask all past and current colleagues and clients for recommendations. It is really important to tell the people you are asking for recommendations what you would like them to say about you instead of just leaving it open.

Be human.

Volunteering and listing interest can show a more human side to your profile. It’s a good idea to list interests and volunteering groups with no obvious political or religious affiliations. I would encourage you to build community through LinkedIn relationships. You’ll find your career journey much more interesting with connections to empathize with along the way.