8 Tips for Creating a LinkedIn Profile That Gets You Noticed

In today’s professional world, your LinkedIn profile is more than just an online resume; it’s your personal brand on display. Recruiters, hiring managers, and potential business partners use LinkedIn to research candidates and make connections, so having a polished, engaging profile can make all the difference.

Whether you’re job hunting, networking, or simply establishing your presence in your industry, here are 8 tips to help your LinkedIn profile stand out.

1. Use a Professional Headshot

Your profile photo is the first thing people notice, so choose one that’s high-quality, well-lit, and reflects how you’d present yourself in a professional setting. Dress appropriately for your industry and aim for a friendly, approachable expression.

If you don’t have access to a professional headshot, don’t worry. There are great AI options that can help. We’ve seen excellent results with Dreamwave, for example.

2. Craft a Compelling Headline

Your headline doesn’t have to just be your job title. Use this space (120 characters) to highlight your expertise and value. For example:

"Marketing Strategist | Helping Brands Tell Their Story and Drive Results"

A well-crafted headline can spark interest and make people want to learn more about you.

3. Write a Strong “About” Section

Think of your “About” section as your professional elevator pitch. Use it to share who you are, what you do, and what you’re passionate about. Write in the first person, keep it concise, and include keywords relevant to your field to help your profile appear in searches.

4. Highlight Your Achievements in Experience

While it’s important to list your past roles, try going beyond job duties by focusing on measurable accomplishments. (e.g., “Increased sales by 35% in one year” or “Managed a $500,000 marketing budget”).

5. Showcase Your Skills

Add relevant skills to your profile and prioritize your top three. Relevant skills appear prominently and can help recruiters quickly assess your expertise. Aim for a mix of hard and soft skills. Ask colleagues and professional connections to "endorse" you for them.

6. Use a Professional Background Image

The background (banner) image is often overlooked, but it’s prime real estate for reinforcing your personal brand. You can use a clean, relevant image such as a city skyline, industry-related graphic, or branded visual to make your profile look polished.

7. Add Rich Media

LinkedIn allows you to upload presentations, videos, PDFs, and links to showcase your work. Including visual samples of your projects can make your profile more engaging and memorable.

8. Stay Active and Engage

A great profile is only part of the equation; staying visible matters too. Share relevant articles, comment on industry posts, and write your own updates. The more active you are, the more likely you’ll show up in other people’s feeds.

Your LinkedIn Profile Is Your Digital First Impression

A strong LinkedIn profile can open the door to new opportunities, from job offers to valuable professional connections. By following these tips and keeping your profile updated, you’ll position yourself as a credible, approachable, and knowledgeable professional in your field.