LinkedIn can be a challenging platform to navigate. Many of us have experienced the frustration of scrolling through our feed, encountering overly promotional posts or receiving connection requests from unfamiliar individuals. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of information and lose sight of the human aspect that makes this professional network valuable.
To make the most of LinkedIn, it’s crucial to focus on building authentic relationships. This involves understanding the unwritten guidelines for interacting on the platform, from creating meaningful posts to responding to messages in a respectful manner.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best practices and potential pitfalls of LinkedIn etiquette, providing you with practical advice to interact more effectively and professionally in this digital environment.
1. Start with a Clear, Professional Headline
Your LinkedIn headline is a quick introduction. It’s the first thing people see when they look at your profile. A good headline can help you get noticed by employers and other professionals.
What Makes a Great Headline?
Don’t let LinkedIn decide your headline because it is your chance to shine. A tailored headline captures attention, draws prospects and recruiters to your profile, and highlights what you bring to the table.
Here, HubSpot offers a straightforward formula for crafting a headline: Let “X” represent your ideal prospect, and “Y” symbolize the outcome or mindset they achieve after working with you.
Keep It Simple and Clear: Think of your headline as a quick summary of what you do. Avoid vague terms like “Professional” and go for specifics. Instead of “Marketing Professional,” say “Social Media Strategist Driving Brand Growth.”
Highlight Your Expertise: Showcase your strengths and skills. For example: “SEO Specialist | Content Creator | Digital Marketing Enthusiast.”
Use Search-Friendly Keywords: Think about what words recruiters or industry peers might use to find someone like you. For example: “Data Analyst | SQL | Python | Machine Learning.”
Add a Dash of Personality: Your headline doesn’t have to be boring! Add something that reflects your unique style. For example: “Creative UX Designer | Obsessed with Seamless User Journeys.”
Keep It Concise: Stick to 120 characters or less. A short, snappy headline is easier to remember and stands out.
Pro Tips for a Winning Headline
- Use Action-Packed Words: Words like “leading,” “driving,” or “empowering” add energy to your headline.
- Tailor It to Your Audience: Whether you’re job hunting or networking, make sure your headline resonates with the people you want to attract.
- Stay Current: Update your headline regularly to reflect changes in your career or focus.
- Experiment: Test different headlines to see which gets the best response.
- Leverage LinkedIn Tools: Use LinkedIn’s headline tips to optimize your profile.
Examples for your reference
- Financial Advisor at WealthPoint: Guiding professionals toward smarter investment decisions.
- HR Specialist at TalentHub: Helping companies attract and retain top talent effortlessly.
- Project Manager at InnovateCo: Ensuring on-time delivery of complex IT solutions.
- Content Creator at StoryCraft: Engaging audiences through compelling digital narratives.
2. Choose a Profile Picture That Reflects You
Let’s talk about your LinkedIn profile picture. It’s the first thing people see, so it’s worth getting right. Here’s how to nail it:
Look Sharp, Feel Confident
Dress in a way that fits your industry but also makes you feel like a million bucks. Clean, well-groomed, and comfortable – that’s the sweet spot.
Use a high quality image
No one likes squinting at a blurry photo. Use a high-quality image where your face is front and center. Natural light works wonders, but watch out for weird shadows.
Smile Like You Mean It
A genuine smile goes a long way. It makes you look friendly and approachable. Look straight at the camera – it shows you’re confident and ready to connect.
Keep the Background Simple
You’re the star here, not your surroundings. A plain wall or subtle backdrop works best. Anything too busy will distract from your winning smile.
Stay Current
Make sure your photo actually looks like you. If you’ve changed your look recently, it might be time for a new shot.
By following these tips, you’ll be putting your best face forward and making connections that count.
3. Make Your Banner Image Work for You
Your banner image is the first thing people see on your LinkedIn profile. It’s a prime opportunity to make a strong first impression and showcase your professional brand. You can also take help from canva, if you are new. They have a lot of templates to start from. Here are some tips to create an effective banner image:
1. Choose a High-Quality Image:
- Clarity: Ensure your image is clear and free of pixelation.
- Resolution: Use a high-resolution image to maintain quality on different screen sizes.
2. Use a Professional Background:
- Minimalist: A clean, minimalist background can enhance your profile’s overall appearance.
- Branded: Incorporate your personal brand or company logo subtly.
- Industry-Specific: Use a background that aligns with your industry or profession.
3. Include a Clear Headshot:
- Prominence: Place your headshot prominently in the banner.
- Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the viewer to create a personal connection.
- Professional Attire: Dress in professional attire that reflects your industry.
4. Add a Strong Call to Action:
- Clear and Concise: Use a clear and concise call to action.
- Relevant: The call to action should align with your professional goals.
- Examples: “Let’s Connect,” “Hire Me,” or “Explore My Work.”
5. Optimize for Mobile:
- Mobile-Friendly: Ensure your banner image looks good on both desktop and mobile devices.
- Text Visibility: Use large, easy-to-read font sizes.
6. Use Consistent Branding:
- Color Palette: Use colors that are consistent with your personal brand.
- Typography: Choose a font that is easy to read and complements your brand.
- Rethink Your “About” Section: Make It Your Story
The “About” section on LinkedIn isn’t just a summary it’s your story. It’s your chance to go beyond your résumé and show people who you really are, what drives you, and what you’re looking for.
Here’s how to make it stand out:
Start with a Hook
Think of your opening line as the headline of your story. Grab attention right away.
- “From turning ideas into reality to leading teams through complex challenges, I thrive in spaces where creativity meets strategy.”
Share Your Journey
Tell people how you got here. Focus on the “why” behind what you do.
- “I didn’t plan to become a software developer. My journey began with a love for problem-solving and a curiosity for how things work. Fast forward to today, I’m building intuitive apps that improve lives.”
Highlight What You Bring
What sets you apart? Share your skills, strengths, and what you can offer.
- “With over five years of experience in project management, I specialize in delivering large-scale projects on time and within budget while keeping teams motivated and engaged.”
Make It Personal:
This is your chance to connect on a personal level. Add a sentence or two about your passions or hobbies outside work.
- “When I’m not working, you’ll find me exploring hiking trails, experimenting with new recipes, or volunteering at my local animal shelter.”
End with Purpose
Wrap up by sharing what you’re looking for or excited about next.
- “I’m passionate about finding innovative solutions to big challenges and am always open to collaborations that make a difference.”
Keep it conversational. Write like you’re talking to someone, not listing off a set of facts. Authenticity wins every time.
4. Highlight Your Top Skills
LinkedIn’s search engine looks for relevant skills when people are hunting for candidates. They build credibility: When your connections endorse your skills, it adds weight to your claims.
They spark conversations: Having shared skills can lead to new connections with people in your industry. How to make the most of your skills section:
Why Your Skills Section Matters
Highlighting your top skills, a crucial aspect of LinkedIn etiquette, helps you stand out in the professional network.
- You Become Discoverable: When recruiters or industry peers search LinkedIn, your listed skills help you pop up in the right searches.
- It’s Proof, Not Just Talk: Endorsements from colleagues or clients make your skills more than just claims—they’re trusted recommendations.
- It’s a Conversation Starter: Shared skills often lead to unexpected connections, collaborations, or even job opportunities.
5. How to Make Your Skills Work for You
Position your strengths to effectively communicate your career trajectory, all while following LinkedIn etiquette.
Focus on What Really Counts
Don’t just list every skill you’ve ever picked up—curate your top strengths that align with where you are now and where you want to go.
- Current Job? Highlight the tools, techniques, and soft skills you’re using daily.
- Aiming Higher? Include skills you’re developing for future roles.
Speak the Industry’s Language
Recruiters aren’t mind readers—they’re searchers. Make their job easier by using keywords they’re already looking for.
- How? Search job postings in your field and note common skills. Add these (if they’re true for you) across your profile.
Quality Over Quantity
Your skills section isn’t a laundry list; it’s your greatest hits album. Stick to 10-15 impactful skills that represent you best.
- A streamlined list doesn’t just look better—it feels more intentional and professional.
Turn Endorsements into Gold Stars
Endorsements give your skills credibility, so don’t be shy about asking for them.
- Send a polite request to former colleagues or managers who can vouch for you.
- And yes, endorsing others is a good way to encourage reciprocity.
Keep It Fresh
Your career evolves—so should your skills. Regularly revisit your section to:
- Add new skills you’ve gained.
- Remove outdated ones that no longer reflect your expertise.
Out-of-the-Box Pro Tip
Tell a Story with Your Skills: Instead of listing “Leadership,” “Team Management,” and “Strategic Planning,” weave them into a narrative in your profile summary. For example:
- “Over the years, I’ve honed my leadership and strategic planning skills by leading cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and exceed expectations.”
This creates context for your skills and makes them more memorable.By turning your LinkedIn skills section into a thoughtful, polished representation of your strengths, you’ll not only stand out—you’ll attract the opportunities you truly deserve.
6. Why Buzzwords Hurt Your LinkedIn Profile
Buzzwords are overused industry terms that have lost their impact. While they might seem impressive, they often do more harm than good in a LinkedIn profile. Here’s why:
- Lack of originality: Overused buzzwords make your profile blend in with the crowd.
- Reduced credibility: Excessive use of buzzwords can make you appear less genuine and more like a cliché.
- Poor search engine optimization: Search engines often ignore common words, so relying too heavily on buzzwords can hurt your profile’s visibility.
How to Avoid Buzzwords
Avoiding buzzwords is smart LinkedIn etiquette. Stand out with originality, boost credibility, and improve visibility
- Be Specific: Instead of using generic terms like “experienced,” specify your experience. For example, instead of “Experienced Marketing Professional,” try “Digital Marketing Strategist with 10+ years of experience in B2B lead generation.”
- Use Strong Action Verbs: Use powerful verbs to describe your accomplishments. For instance, instead of “Good at problem-solving,” say “Effectively solved complex problems to increase sales by 20%.”
- Highlight Unique Skills and Achievements: Focus on what sets you apart. Highlight your unique skills, certifications, or projects that demonstrate your expertise.
- Use Storytelling: Share real-life examples of your work to illustrate your skills and accomplishments. This can make your profile more engaging and memorable.
- Leverage LinkedIn’s Features: Use LinkedIn’s features like the “About” section, “Experience” section, and “Recommendations” to showcase your skills and achievements in a more detailed and impactful way.
Example of a Buzzword-Free LinkedIn Headline
- Buzzword-filled: “Innovative Digital Marketing Expert | Passionate About Social Media”
- Improved: “Digital Marketing Strategist | Driving Growth Through Data-Driven Campaigns”
By avoiding buzzwords and focusing on specific, actionable language, you can create a more compelling and effective LinkedIn profile.
7. Keep Your Experience Section Fresh and Relevant
Your job history tells your career story. Make it count by showing how you’ve grown and made an impact. Updating your experience regularly is smart LinkedIn etiquette. Showcase your growth and career achievements.
What to Include:
• Current Job: Share what you’re doing now and why it matters. Talk about your big wins and key projects.
• Past Jobs: Pick experiences that fit your career goals. Show how your skills can transfer to new roles.
• Use Numbers: Instead of saying “I improved sales,” try “I boosted sales by 15% in six months.”
Add a quick note about each company you’ve worked for. This helps if they’re not well-known.
8. Use Strong Verbs to Show Your Impact
Pick words that pack a punch, a key aspect of LinkedIn etiquette. Skip boring phrases like “responsible for” or “tasked with.”
Try These Instead:
• “Led a team of 10 to finish a $2M project on time and under budget.”
• “Grew website visits by 25% through smart SEO tactics.”
• “Created a new training program that cut new hire turnover by 20%.”
Give some background to your achievements. What was the situation? What did you do? What happened as a result?
9. Add Photos and Videos to Show Off Your Work
Add Photos and Videos to Show Off Your Work is a great LinkedIn Etiquette. Including visuals on your LinkedIn profile is a great way to demonstrate your achievements and stand out professionally.
Here’s how to make your profile pop:
- Add images of certifications, badges, or awards to highlight your qualifications.
- Link to your portfolio of designs, articles, or presentations to showcase your expertise.
- Upload slides from a conference presentation, webinar, or a successful project pitch.
- Share a video of a product launch, a team project in action, or an interview you participated in.
10. Get Personalised Endorsements
Ask for endorsements that show off your skills and work style. The best ones are specific and personal.
How to Ask:
• Be clear: “Could you write about how we worked together on [specific project] and what we achieved?”
• Make it easy: Suggest key points they could mention, like your leadership or problem-solving skills.
Try to get recommendations from bosses, coworkers, and clients to show different perspectives.
11. Focus on What You’ve Achieved, Not Just What You Did
Recruiters want to know how you’ve made a difference, not just what your job description was.
Before: “Managed social media for a tech startup.”
After: “Grew social media followers by 50% in 6 months by creating engaging, data-driven content.”
Tell a story with your achievements. What problems did you solve? How did you do it? What were the results?
12. Clean Up Your LinkedIn URL
Make your profile link short and sweet. It’s easier to share and looks more professional. A tidy LinkedIn URL is key to good LinkedIn etiquette. It’s professional, easy to share, and leaves a great impression
How to Do It:
Go to your profile, click “Edit public profile & URL,” and change it to something like linkedin.com/in/janedoe-marketing.
Add this new URL to your resume, email signature, and business cards.
13. Join In on LinkedIn Conversations
Active engagement is a key part of LinkedIn etiquette. Like, comment, and share thoughtfully to build visibility and credibility. Being active on LinkedIn keeps you visible and shows you know your stuff.
What to Do:
• Like and comment on posts about your industry.
• Share interesting articles and add your thoughts.
• Tag colleagues or mentors to start good discussions.
Make your comments thoughtful. Try something like: “Great article, [Author]! I’ve seen this happen at my company too, especially when it comes to [specific topic].”
14. Write Your Own Posts
Posting original content on LinkedIn is a powerful way to establish your personal brand, showcase your expertise, and engage with your network.
Here are some ideas to inspire your posts:
- Share insights from a recent project: Talk about challenges you overcame or lessons learned to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
- Offer tips for others in your field: Share advice, best practices, or industry tricks that can help others improve their skills.
- Discuss trends in your industry: Write about the latest developments, technologies, or changes in your sector to position yourself as a thought leader.
- Celebrate work milestones: Announce achievements like completing a major project, earning a new certification, or reaching career goals to keep your network engaged with your progress.
15. Grow Your Network with Personal Messages
When reaching out to connect with someone on LinkedIn, always include a personalized message to make a strong first impression. A thoughtful note shows genuine interest and makes your request stand out.
Here’s an example of a message you could send:
‘Hi [Name], I admire your work in [specific area]. I’d love to connect and hear your thoughts on [specific topic]—I think we could have some great discussions.’
Why Personal Messages Matter:
- Build rapport: Personalizing your message helps build a connection and shows that you’ve done your research.
- Set yourself apart: Many connection requests are sent without a message, so a personal note makes yours more memorable.
- Strengthen relationships: Once connected, stay engaged by liking, commenting on, or messaging your connections periodically. Keep the conversation going to nurture long-term professional relationships.
Keep your messages concise and relevant, and avoid sending generic connection requests to build more meaningful connections.”
16. Show Off Your Certifications
Certifications can give you an edge and show you’re serious about your skills.
What to Include:
• Tech certifications (like Google Analytics or PMP)
• Industry-specific certifications (like CPA or CISSP)
• Soft skill certifications (like leadership or public speaking)
In your profile summary, explain how your certification has helped you in your work.
17. Talk About Your Volunteer Work
Sharing your volunteer work shows what you care about and adds a personal touch to your profile.
How to Write It:
Be specific about what you did and how it helped. For example: “Organized a free medical check up for the underpriviledged”
Focus on volunteer work that relates to your career or shows off skills you can use at work.
18. Use LinkedIn’s Built-In Stats
LinkedIn gives you data about your profile. Use it to see how you’re doing.
Things to Look At:
• Who is viewing your profile
• How many people engage with your posts
• How often you show up in searches
Use this info to try out different types of posts or updates to your profile.
By focusing on these areas, you can make your LinkedIn profile really shine. It’ll show off who you are as a professional and help you stand out in a good way.
19. Turn on Creator Mode
Why Creator Mode?
Creator Mode is a powerful feature on LinkedIn that can elevate your profile and expand your audience. By activating this mode, you gain access to tools and features that help you:
- Share Your Expertise: Create engaging content like articles, posts, and videos to showcase your knowledge and insights.
- Grow Your Following: Reach a wider audience by optimizing your content for discovery.
- Connect with Like-Minded Professionals: Engage with other creators and build valuable relationships.
How to Activate Creator Mode:
- Log in to LinkedIn.
- Go to your profile.
- Click on the “Edit Profile” button.
- Scroll down to the “Creator Mode” section.
- Toggle the switch to turn on Creator Mode.
- Select Topics: Choose topics that align with your expertise and interests.
Tips for Using Creator Mode:
- Consistent Posting: Share high-quality content regularly to keep your audience engaged.
- Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and messages promptly.
- Use Visuals: Incorporate images, videos, and infographics to make your content visually appealing.
- Experiment with Different Content Formats: Try different formats like articles, polls, and live videos.
- Leverage LinkedIn’s Analytics: Track your performance and adjust your strategy accordingly.
By taking advantage of Creator Mode, you can position yourself as an industry expert and build a strong personal brand on LinkedIn.
20. Participate in Collaborative Articles When Invited
LinkedIn has recently introduced collaborative articles. These are AI-initiated pieces that our editorial team refines, but they’re not complete without input from our members. We ask professionals to add their expert insights, resulting in articles that showcase diverse viewpoints on topics important to the professional community.
As a member, you can react to individual contributions or the entire article. If you receive an invitation to contribute, it’s an excellent chance to share your expertise. This participation can also help you earn a “Top Voice” badge.
By contributing, you’re not only sharing your knowledge but also engaging with the wider professional community on LinkedIn. It’s a straightforward way to increase your visibility and demonstrate your expertise in your field.