Upload a Photo

Choose a profile picture that represents you. Similarly to LinkedIn, a professional headshot is the way to go, complete with a smile. Avoid using a group photograph or an action shot, such as one including a friend or significant other. While a surprising amount of “tweeters” don’t upload an image, Hubspot states that profiles with photos are 10 times more likely to be followed. Improve consistency among your social media profiles by using the same profile picture throughout.

Location, Location, Location

Often overlooked, accurately filling in the location field on your profile is an important step. Choose the largest, and closest, area or city to you, and if you already reside in a big city, that’s even better. Highly searchable, listing your location makes it easy for other users to find and follow you.

Build Your Bio

Including an interesting biography is a great way to shine on this network – make the most of the 160 characters you’re given! Describe yourself in an upbeat, succinct way – let fellow users know there’s a human being behind that handle. Avoid excessive hashtags and abbreviations and remember that work-safe humour can go a long way. Include relevant keywords to boost your profile’s SEO value.

When In Doubt, Link to LinkedIn

A great way to advertise your small business, personal website or blog is through a link on your Twitter profile. However, some users don’t have any of the above and are stumped as to what to include there. Linking to your LinkedIn profile is a great way to provide users with more information about you, personally and professionally, and avoid a blank space.

Go The Extra Mile

Instead of picking a pre-made theme, customize your profile with specially-designed background and header photos. This gives your Twitter account that little extra oomph and allows you to stand out from the crowd. Choose images that represent and complement your goals. A small business owner, for example, may use their company logo as a header and a background that aligns with the design of their website.

When it comes to polishing your Twitter profile, getting the best results means getting involved. Take the time to draft and edit an engaging bio and opt for a photo that showcases you at your best, without distractions. Add keywords to your bio and an accurate location to increase your chances of getting found via search engines. Include a link to a relevant website, blog or networking profile and gussy it up with custom-designed header and background images.

Image Credits: MyCorpSocial & UpCity

Put Your Best Photo Forward

LinkedIn is a professional network and your profile photo should reflect that. Choose a headshot that you are comfortable with – avoid blurry shots, selfies and cropping group photos. The image you choose should represent who you are as both an individual and professional; work attire, polished hair and makeup (if applicable) and a smile go a long way. If necessary, have a friend or coworker take an up-to-date photograph of you to upload.

Choose a Creative Caption

That little line of text underneath your name is what shows up in your profile’s search result. Instead of listing your current position, optimize this tidbit with keywords relevant to your education, skills and interests. For example, if you run a digital agency, replace “The founder of Digital123.” with “Digital strategist specializing in branding, social media and content marketing.” Take the 120-character allotment you’re given and run with it.

Write a Stunning Summary

Many LinkedIn-ers forego adding a summary in favour of simply inputting work experience. A truly polished profile, however, draws readers and recruiters in with an engaging, interesting summary. Explain your qualifications and what makes you the right person for the job. Write in a conversational tone; showcase your accomplishments, discuss your career goals and avoid an overload of industry jargon.

Keep It Updated

A crucial component of LinkedIn success is an up-to-date profile. As your career grows, add relevant information to your headline, summary, education and work experience. Ensure that your profile picture is an accurate representation of your current appearance. Input new skills and expertise as you go – this section of your profile lets readers know what you’re good at and is highly searchable, which is great for SEO.

Add More

Detailing your work experience is essential to attracting potential employers and valuable networking opportunities. LinkedIn allows users to upload documents, images and even videos to specific jobs, and this is especially beneficial for individuals in creative fields. Liven up your profile by attaching images of successful projects, be it graphic design work, a website or architecture. Use video to demonstrate activism, event planning, community work and related expertise.

Polishing your LinkedIn profile is all about getting creative, standing out and showing off. While an appropriate photo is the first step, a creative caption, one-of-a-kind summary and interesting visuals are key to an engaging demonstration of your education, skills and work experience. Keep your profile up-to-date with your latest responsibilities, positions and training and you’re well on your way to reaping the rewards of LinkedIn.

Image Credit: Lotis Social Media