Danielle Restivo is Head of Global Programs at LinkedIn, where she manages global PR programmes for LinkedIn’s corporate communications team, whilst driving strategy, execution and measurement for international PR programmes. Prior to this she was LinkedIn’s Manager of Corporate Communications for Brazil and Canada. Her previous experience includes digital and social media related roles at Dare USA, GCI Group, Media Profile and DBA Communications.
“…A LinkedIn survey found that one in three women shy away from talking about their achievements, and more than half revealed that they’ve missed out on promotions as a result…”
Today will see Brits heading online in their droves to put their career resolutions into practice on LinkedIn as 21st January marks the busiest day for profile activity amongst LinkedIn’s 17 million UK members
January is a natural time to reflect on the past year’s achievements and recharge ready to tackle challenges to come. Here are my top tips for making your profile work harder for you in 2015:
It’s often the time when most people start thinking about the year ahead, and where they’d like to see themselves this time next year. Our work lives play a big part in that that crystal-balling, and whether you’re looking to change jobs, move into a new industry or win a promotion in your current role, there’s a few things you might want to consider…
1. Avoid ‘Buzzword bingo’
Today is traditionally the day when we see a significant spike in activity on the LinkedIn platform, as members revamp their profiles and look to take control of their careers. But despite all the time and effort spent honing their professional brands, too many people are using the same generic, overused words and phrases – and potentially walking into a career cliché. Today, we released the top ten most overused buzzwords on LinkedIn profiles so, make sure you’re avoiding using words like “motivated,” “creative,” or “enthusiastic” to describe yourself.
Hot tip:
Why not show you’re motivated by including your volunteer experience and the causes you support?
2. Reflect and reassess
Now that you’re settled back after the holidays, take some time to reflect on what you’ve achieved, where you’re headed and look back over your LinkedIn profile. To start with, make sure it’s complete and up to date, includes a good headline and summary and has an appropriately professional image (perhaps save ‘those’ holiday ones for other social networks!)
Hot tip:
LinkedIn profiles are eleven times more likely to be viewed if they have a photo.
3. If you achieved it, own it…
A LinkedIn survey found that one in three women shy away from talking about their achievements, and more than half revealed that they’ve missed out on promotions as a result. Make sure you’re shouting about your important achievements on LinkedIn and include all your skills on your profile. Remember, you’ve only got between five and ten seconds to impress.
Hot tip:
You can now add media to your profile so it looks more like a portfolio. Give it a go, a few clicks and you’ll have a snazzy looking profile that will stand out from the crowd.
4. …but don’t overdo it
We’re all guilty of a little overindulgence during the holiday period and the January come down can affect your motivation, but try not to let this leak onto LinkedIn. Your profile should give prospective employers, clients and other connections an accurate snapshot of your ‘professional brand’ so lead with your best achievements, keep things snappy and try not to exaggerate.
Hot tip:
Unless it’s appropriate to your industry, you should avoid speaking in the third person.
5. New Year’s Resolutions
By the 31st January, our resolutions have often fallen by the wayside. Why not make yours a bit more achievable this year? It just takes nine minutes a day developing your network on LinkedIn to make a real difference. Or, how about resolving to connect with one new business contact on LinkedIn every day? Remember, you’ll already have a wealth of connections to draw on in your friends, family, ex-colleagues and acquaintances.
Hot tip:
A network of only 50 connections can have a great impact on your career; this is when you begin feeling the ‘network effect’.
6. Get involved
Most importantly, don’t let your profile do all the talking for you. Once you’ve given it a good polish it’s time to interact. Join groups and give your opinion on things you find interesting, such as news or articles.
Hot tip:
A few simple ‘likes’ and ‘shares’ will quickly show your connections the things that matter to you.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerestivo
