Looking good on LinkedIn

So many people just post a basic profile on LinkedIn (and on twitter too, but that's another story), gather three or four connections and leave it there. Job done.

This is a pity, because a little more time at the start will give you a lot more reward for your efforts.

Here are a few pointers to get you going on LinkedIn, if you haven't done so already:

1. Fill out the work experience section on your profile
Spend an hour or two re-hashing your CV to fit into the work experience fields. A long and interesting career looks impressive, and the LinkedIn page formatting makes it easy for readers to scan. A short and gap-filled career makes you look either (a) a bit dodgy or (b) lacking in committment to even a basic thing like getting your LinkedIn profile completed.

2. Join some groups
Spend some time browsing through the groups to find a few that fit. Again the formatting makes group updates very easy to scan and pick up anything relevant to you.

3. Get an easy view of blog posts made by your connections.
This is an easy way to keep in touch with what your connections are up to, and it makes the LinkedIn home page a little more interesting when you log in. [Add Application - on the bottom right of your home page].

4. See your tweets.
If you're on Twitter you can now connect your account with linkedin, so your twitter updates are displayed on your LinkedIn homepage. Again it makes it more interactive and informative.[Add Application - on the bottom right of your home page].

5. Get recommended
Ask some (trusted) colleagues for recommendations, but be aware that you can't edit anything they say. I'm a bit wary of this feature, as it's open to false recommendations by people's friends etc. Better to have a couple than to leave the space bare though, overall.

6. Post a picture
I can't help thinking there's something a little suspicious about people who won't post their photo on their LinkedIn profile. Is it because they're not bothered enough about networking on LinkedIn to dig out a picture (or are they on the run??)

More soon on the more advanced benefits of using LinkedIn for business. If there are any! (and yes I believe there are, so watch this space).