How to Supercharge a LinkedIn Profile

Face it--the dynamics of professional networking are constantly changing. In this era of web-based networking, scores of professionals are choosing to use LinkedIn, a premier networking site, as a vital tool in their pursuit of opportunity. LinkedIn, as a site with connected "Profiles," is in some ways not that different from social networking sites like MySpace and FaceBook, but LinkedIn's style is decidedly business, and the users are generally engaged in corporate or business activities. Using LinkedIn can be an effective way to get yourself noticed, especially if you take the following steps to "supercharge" your profile, to stand with your head above the crowd in this online line-up.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Put your best foot forward. Add the best information about yourself, putting your skills and talents up front. Use the various fields of your main profile page to show others your experiences, skill sets, and unique abilities that will make you a crucial asset to a business.
2. Bulk up your contact list. Just like with sites like MySpace, where having "friends" is a priority, LinkedIn values the addition of business "contacts". Contacts send you messages and cooperate over the web; contacts also are a sign that you have been engaged in your local or global industry.
3. Use recommendations to your advantage. LinkedIn offers a particular niche in your profile for these online kudos, and filling up your recommendation file will show others that you have been vouched for by other legitimate professionals. The recommendations in LinkedIn are much like the old "references" you show people on a paper resume, and much easier to view or locate.
4. Link your LinkedIn page. Use your LinkedIn page on a paper resume. If you have a web site, link it to your LinkedIn profile, or if you find a web site that you can put a link on, add it. Linking to your LinkedIn profile gives web users another way to get into your profile rather than entering your name in a search field.
5. Keep it current. If your profile shows old information, viewers might be confused, and if they know your current status, nothing is more annoying than seeing last years' stuff on your profile. Besides, if you are on an upward journey, keeping current will show your best experience and job training.