How to update your LinkedIn profile in under 15 minutes

How many times have you found yourself down the rabbit hole looking at other industry professionals’ LinkedIn profiles, then compared it to your own? “I wish mine looked like that, but it’s too much effort” … sound familiar? Don’t worry, we all do it. If you have a spare 10 or 15 minutes on your lunch break, here’s a few bite-sized changes you can make that will help up your LinkedIn game!

Update your LinkedIn responsibilities

Your LinkedIn profile should be used as a ‘live’ resume. It needs to be constantly revised and updated to reflect your current and past working experience. If your profile photo is 10 years old and the world thinks you still work at your local supermarket (when you have actually accumulated 20 years of industry experience), it might be time for a profile update.

Ensure your current work position is up-to-date and includes your full title, location of work and your responsibilities. List out all your skills – after all, this is one of the first things that people will see when they go on your profile. If you want to go the extra mile, add documents that can support your profile such as a resume, cover letter or even videos / examples of your work.

Customise your LinkedIn URL to increase searchability

When you first joined LinkedIn, you were most likely given a long, impersonal URL that would not be very appealing or easy for someone to search for you. Change your URL by clicking on ‘edit profile’ - once you are on your own profile, click ‘edit’ under your cover photo. Remember to keep it simple! Try sticking to your first name and last name. The goal is to remember who your audience is on LinkedIn and to keep it professional.

Recommendations boost your LinkedIn profile

This is another section that instantly attracts people’s attention when they’re on your profile. So, take a few minutes to ask your co-worker, employer or previous employer to write you a recommendation, because it’s a great way to show people what a hard worker you are, and that people want to publicly endorse you. Another important factor to keep in mind - is your 'current workplace' connected to a legitimate company profile? Ensure you double check this to ensure your information is correct. 

Writing the right headline for your LinkedIn profile

Did you know that every time you update your current position, LinkedIn defaults your headline to that updated company or title? If you’re trying to attract employers, it’s important to have a unique and tailored headline that suits your profile and shows that you have put thought into how you want to display yourself. If you can’t take the time to make yourself relevant and up-to-date online, why should someone hire you?  

There you have it, a few tips on how to update your LinkedIn profile in under 15 mins. If you have time to spare, play around with the platform, there’s a lot that it offers, and it can be a very useful tool to help grow your personal and professional brand.

If you are struggling to take your online presence to the next level, contact Elevate to find out how you can improve your digital strategy with our award-winning digital marketers and strategists.