How To Use LinkedIn For Your PErsonal Brand
I like LinkedIn, I like it a lot - it’s a great platform for raising visibility and building strong connections through networking. I have shared quite a few pieces and videos on how to use LinkedIn effectively and regularly urge my clients to use it to boost their personal brand visibility.
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for building and promoting your personal brand - it might not be as “sexy” as some of the other social media platforms but it is effective particularly when it comes to highlighting thought leadership. I made a joke that I could become a LinkedIn influencer and whilst I may not technically be an influencer as such I utilised some key tactics to boost my visibility on the platform which have not only attracted more clients but also increased my reach as a PR pro.
Check out my video here:
Here are a few ideas that you can immediately incorporate in order to use LinkedIn effectively to enhance your personal brand:
Be daring and original - social media relies heavily on human engagement and human beings require content that will make them stop scrolling. Think about the visuals and the words that you are using within your LinkedIn posts which will make people pause, comment and share. The magic is in understanding what your audience wants to see, what matters to them and what they will react to. This does not mean that you have to be controversial but it does mean that you have to be original, bold and daring.
Make sure your profile is up to date and clear - Create a comprehensive and professional profile that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements. Use a high-quality profile picture and write a compelling headline and summary that showcase your personal brand.
Don’t be afraid to show off your expertise - Regularly share insightful and relevant content related to your industry or area of expertise. This can include articles from publications that are interesting, blog posts you have written, industry news, or thought leadership pieces. Demonstrate your knowledge and establish yourself as an authority in your field. You can also use the video function - record yourself sharing insights or offering advice - video content on linkedin does very well. But while you’re busy sharing your own content don’t forget to actively engage with others by commenting, liking, and sharing their content. Join relevant LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions. Connect with professionals in your industry, colleagues, and thought leaders. Building a strong network can enhance your visibility and open doors to new opportunities.
Publish LinkedIn articles - LinkedIn allows you to publish long-form articles directly on the platform. Leverage this feature to share in-depth content, industry insights, or your own experiences. Publishing articles can boost your credibility and visibility.
Request and provide recommendations - Request recommendations from colleagues, clients, or mentors who can speak to your skills and expertise and serve as very useful testimonials for prospective clients or employers. These recommendations add social proof to your profile. Additionally, take the time to provide thoughtful recommendations for others you have worked with - remember LinkedIn is a networking platform and use it to maintain mutually beneficial relationships.
Share professional achievements - Regularly update your profile with professional achievements, such as certifications, awards, or completed projects. This helps to establish credibility and adds value to your personal brand.
Monitor your online presence - Keep a close eye on your LinkedIn notifications and messages. Respond to inquiries, comments, and connection requests but also use it as a way of spring cleaning your profile. Regularly review and manage your privacy settings to ensure your personal brand is being presented consistently, authentically and professionally.
Much like all the other social media platforms, consistency is key when using LinkedIn for personal branding. Regularly update your profile, engage with your network, and share valuable content to maintain a strong personal brand presence on the platform which will lead to ongoing business and professional opportunities.