LinkedIn headline dos and don’ts

Here are four fatal flaws prominent in many profiles, as well as four essentials for branding yourself effectively.

Ragan Insider Premium Content
Ragan Insider Content

1. It’s not original. Phrases like “outside-the-box thinker” or “problem-solver” or “strategic visionary” mean absolutely nothing and will not impress or intrigue anyone. If your headline is full of clichés, you’ll just be seen as a low-value commodity.

2. It’s confusing. If someone is confused about what you do, you will probably not be asked for clarification. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a job-seeker, or a happily employed professional, be clear in explaining how you make other people/organizations better.

3. It’s boring. It’s amazing how many people just use their job title and name of employer as their headline. You are much more than your job title. Provide evidence for your value/credibility by highlighting your most impressive/relevant achievement, honor, award, or third-party recognition/affiliation.

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.