posted 11th February 2026
A standout LinkedIn profile is clear, keyword-rich, and shows real impact, not just job titles. Focus on making every visible element (photo, headline, About, experience, and activity) tell a consistent story about who you are and the value you offer.
Get the basics right
• Use a professional, up-to-date headshot: good lighting, neutral background, and a friendly, approachable expression.
• Add a clean banner image that reflects your sector or personal brand (industry skyline, simple graphic, or company branding).
• Customise your URL (e.g. linkedin.com/in/your name) so it looks professional on CVs, email signatures, and applications.
Write a headline that hooks
• Avoid just using your job title; add who you help and how: “Digital Marketer | Helping SMEs turn traffic into sales” instead of “Marketing Executive”.
• Include role and sector keywords recruiters actually search for (e.g. “Java Developer”, “Construction Project Manager”, “HR Business Partner”).
• Keep it clear and human; skip jargon that would confuse someone outside your niche.
Craft an About section that sells you
• Use the first person and open with one or two lines that sum up your value (“I help… by…”).
• Add 3–5 short, swimmable lines that highlight:
• Core skills and tools
• 2–3 key achievements with results
• The types of roles or projects you’re interested in
• End with a simple call to action: how you’d like people to contact or connect with you.
Turn experience into evidence
• Align job titles and dates with your CV so everything matches.
• Under each role, use 3–6 concise bullets focused on outcomes, not duties:
• Start with action verbs (“Led”, “Delivered”, “Improved”)
• Add numbers wherever possible (“Increased applications by 35%”, “Managed a team of 8”)
• Use the “Featured” and media options to link to portfolios, case studies, presentations, articles, or press mentions.
Optimise skills, keywords, and extras
• List 10–20 relevant skills that match the roles you want now, not every skill you’ve ever had.
• Pin your top 3 skills that best represent your target direction.
• Add relevant licences, certifications, languages, volunteering, and projects to show depth and ongoing development.
Build credibility with social proof
• Request recommendations from managers, colleagues, clients, and mentors who can speak to specific outcomes you delivered.
• Ask endorsers to focus on particular projects or strengths so each recommendation tells a clear mini story.
• Give recommendations and endorsements to others; people are more likely to reciprocate, and it shows you’re active and collaborative.
Stay active so you’re visible
• Post briefly and regularly: share insights from your work, comment on industry news, or reflect on what you’re learning.
• Comment thoughtfully on other people’s posts in your niche; insightful comments often lead to profile views and connections.
• Join relevant groups and follow companies, influencers, and hashtags in your field to stay informed and visible.
