5 LinkedIn Profile Mistakes You Must Avoid

Whether you are using LinkedIn to network with potential customers or prospective employers, you want to put your best foot forward and take full advantage of the networking power that LinkedIn provides. 

Your profile must encourage people to communicate with you, and provide accurate and error-free information. As with your résumé, your LinkedIn profile must paint a picture of your expertise and brand you effectively; those who view it should instantly understand what your expertise is. 

Here are some common errors to avoid: 

Mistake #1 – Incomplete Information: It always shocks me when I get an invite on LinkedIn from someone who has not even filled out the basics of their profile.  Seriously, I got one last week with just a name.  C’mon. That is ridiculous.  At the very least, you must include your headline and your location. You should also include details surrounding your career history. 

Mistake #2 – No Photo or a Really Bad Photo: Facial recognition really matters when it comes to creating an image and networking effectively. You don’t have to be a movie star, but placing a picture on your LinkedIn profile adds a level of personalization that will make people more inclined to “meet” you. Optimally you want to have a professional headshot done, but a pleasant photo is a must. A photo with your dog or your 8 year-old is not going to cut it. 

Mistake #3 – Too Much Information: A LinkedIn Profile should not read like the Tolstoy novel of your life.  Pick and choose the content you include.  You want to give others an overview of what you do, highlighting key achievements; if you have 8 paragraphs for each position you have held, nobody will ever read that all.  Also, lengthy paragraphs are too hard on the eyes. Online content must be broken up into more manageable segments. 

Mistake #4 - No Recommendations: When you are reaching out to people who don’t know you, it really helps if they can see the positive things that others have to say about you.  You don’t have to get 800 recommendations, but if you can gather at least a few from former colleagues, business associates, and/or clients, it will really boost your image. 

 Mistake #5 - Not Joining Groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups and chime in on discussions to develop your personal brand. Even if you don’t have the time to add commentary on every group, when someone visits your profile, they will be able to see the groups in which you participate, providing an understanding of your areas of interest. 

LinkedIn can be an amazingly powerful business tool when used effectively. It is becoming increasingly important for both job seekers and self employed professionals to leverage their connections via this tool. 

Spend time to make your LinkedIn Profile compelling; or work with a professional career expert who can help you generate a compelling LinkedIn Profile to ensure your brand image is the best it can be.