Is a lackluster headline killing your LinkedIn profile?

Are you wasting characters on fluff or, worse, defaulting to a basic job title—one that might not align with current industry nomenclature? Follow these tips to stand out from the crowd.

Ragan Insider Premium Content
Ragan Insider Content

LinkedIn is the modern résumé.

Though it doesn’t necessarily replace the paper version, it’s the first place most people look when you apply for a job, and where recruiters and headhunters are most likely to find your professional achievements.

It’s essential that you stand out and compel visitors to read about the great things you offer.

Probably the biggest challenge of creating a LinkedIn profile is maximizing every field—ensuring all your descriptions and language present you in the best light.

Your headline stands as the most important element—your key opportunity to make a great first impression and entice the reader to learn more. It’s important you get it right, but how? What keywords or terms should you include in your headline? What should you avoid?

Here are a few expert tips on creating and maximizing your LinkedIn headline and building your personal brand on the professional network.

Step 1: Clarify

As with all Web-based search, LinkedIn is reliant on keywords.

In LinkedIn search, your headline is one of the most highly weighted elements. How do you find the right words?

To read the full story, log in.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today

Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.