Do you have a LinkedIn profile? If you do, do you think that only people who are looking for a job are using it? Was the last time you updated your profile over a year ago? If so, then I’m guessing you are underestimating the power of LinkedIn. At this point in time, more than 400 million people use LinkedIn. One way to think of LinkedIn is that it’s the Rolodex of the digital age. It is where you manage your professional reputation.
In fact, if you Google someone’s name, one of the first things that comes up is their LinkedIn profile. Thus, it goes to say, if you’ve not tended to your online reputation, what people see on LinkedIn about you, flavors their impression, possibly their first impression, of you. For this reason, I encourage everyone I meet; you included, to take some time to make sure your LinkedIn profile shines.
You might tell me, “But I’m not looking for a new job. And nothing much has changed in my professional life in the past few years, so why should I bother.” My answer is, “Let’s chat for a moment, and I bet you’ll think of several accomplishments or shifts that have happened in your work.” Also, while it’s true that you might not be looking for a new job, I bet networking, for whatever job you have, is highly valuable. LinkedIn is king and queen for professional networking!
I happen to be a fan of social media. Recently I realized that I now spend more time on LinkedIn than on Facebook. I never thought that would be the case. I found a bunch of great cycling, triathlon and running groups. I follow some smart, insightful influencers. Every time I’m on LinkedIn, I learn something new. I like that.
If you’re thinking you’d like some coaching to get your LinkedIn profile to sing and reflect who you really are, check out my new webpage, as I offer very reasonable consulting and coaching on how to dramatically improve your LinkedIn profile. I’ve studied LinkedIn for years, and as result, in combination with my coaching and teaching skill, I have quite a bit to offer those of you who are interested in improving your LinkedIn presence. Here’s my LinkedIn profile.
Let me know if I can be of service to you. Also, if you love or hate LinkedIn, tell me about it! I love hearing from you.
