Blog Post #5

5 Mistakes to Avoid on your Linkedin Profile

As we grow up, social media is constantly changing and we have to continue to adapt to these changes. The platforms are not necessarily changing but rather the ones we use and how we are supposed to use them. One of the main changes that comes to mind is the switch from facebook to linkedin. While facebook is for social media and social interactions with family and friends, we have to remember that linkedin is for professional interactions and we have to be careful about how to use it. Here are 3 common mistakes to avoid on your linkedin profile.

            First, get a professional headshot. This is likely to be the first thing that people see when they look at your profile so you don’t want to have some random unofficial picture that you could use on facebook that could cause a questionable first impression. Instead, you want an official professional headshot that will cause people to have a positive first impression and make them want to trust you and think highly of you.

            Next, unlike facebook, on linkedin you don’t need your life story, but you do need details. These details should be kept professional. Any type of experience, travel, and personal skills are good to include however getting too personal or unnecessary details can clutter up your linkedin page and discourage people from reaching out to you.

            Lastly, make sure you leave your contact information. On facebook, most people don’t include their contact information so that people will not contact them. However, that is the purpose of linkedin. This is sometimes the initial source of how people get to know about you and your skills. For this reason, it is crucial for you to include this on your linkedin. Your phone number, email address, and any other information you would like people to know so they can reach you.