How to maintain your LinkedIn profile like a pro

Whether you are job hunting or networking, a LinkedIn profile is essential. The LinkedIn blue, black and white is your virtual business card and resume in one box. A good profile not only makes you stand out in front of your professional peers but also helps catch the attention of recruiters.

Here are 8 tips to make the most out of your LinkedIn profile.

Profile picture
The profile photo is a must. This is how people will be introduced to you. Use a recent picture where you look like your authentic self. Formal or semi-formal clothes work best but the most important thing to wear is your smile. Therefore, don't use the 'passport' size picture with the white background you took in the studio.

Use an appropriate background photo
Use this space to express what matters to you. It could be a picture of your company or something that you're passionate about. This is an opportunity to tell people who you are and what you do. If you can visually showcase your skills, this is where to put them.
 
Write a concise headline
The headline could be your job title or a brief description of what you do. You can also use this space to inform your network that you are looking for new opportunities. If you do so, try to be as specific as possible. Include your background and what kind of positions you are looking for. Do not go beyond seven or eight words. 
 
Optimise the 'About' section
Briefly talk about your background and experiences, and how it connects to your skills and interests. Don't be afraid to talk about your hobbies or what you have built. Whatever you do, remember that people have short attention spans, therefore brevity is your friend.

Avoid buzzwords
Recruiters do not prepfer ambiguous adjectives that don't tell them anything constructive about you. Avoid using words such as 'experienced', 'passionate', or 'innovative'. When describing yourself, use action words to show what you have done or accomplished. This tip goes for all of LinkedIn as well as your resume.
 
Keep it clean
Use proper English everywhere. In the experience part, clearly put down your position, name of employer and the time you have spent in the organisation. Describe your position or work either in one short line or in a few bullet points. If you are a university student or a recent grad, you can include your extracurricular activities in the 'Experience' section.  

List your skills
Only include relevant skills that back up your experience and education. Your network can then endorse your skills and attest to your credibility. You can also ask your managers and subject matter experts to endorse you.
 
Recommendations
Recommendations are a good way to improve your credibility and standing. Ask your supervisors or professors who know you well to write you a recommendation on LinkedIn. This works as a reference. A viewer will be able to know directly from a third-party individual what you are like to work with.