1) Refresh your profile photo

Why is it important to update your profile photo? People still connect on a personal level, even in a professional environment, so ensure it is taken facing forward with a professional backdrop and a smile. When uploading the file ensure you name it yourname.jpg, as this will guarantee it returns on the first page of Google and in Google image searches when your name is entered. Making sure it’s a well lit, captures a real sense of your personality, is in an appropriate environment and has you posed well is really the domain of a good (professional) photographer. First impressions are impactful and set up how subsequent interactions will often unfold, so making sure that the best and most natural version of yourself is part of your profile is pretty important and why its ranked in the top of lists like these

2) Revise your summary

Your summary is the best opportunity to tell your story and introduce yourself to prospective profile viewers. Make sure you include any new achievements and career aspirations as to what types of roles you may be seeking to move into. Conclude your summary with a call to action (CTA) as to what next steps you want the reader to take.

3) Add supporting media and documents

Review any documents, like as presentations, whitepapers and images of your work that support your profile. This will enhance your visual portfolio and lift your written profile. Always make sure and check that you have permission to share your work publicly, especially if there is commercially sensitive information included within it, or any copyright attached.

4) Update your current experience & record achievements

Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume and an important part of your overall digital footprint, so even if you are not looking to change roles it is important to update your current experience with any new achievements. Things to include are certifications, courses, awards, languages, projects, publications and any additional roles outside of work that align with your professional practices, like any charity or volunteering work you may have done which can be added to your profile.

Also make sure that your education is up to date by adding your school, college or university from the LinkedIn list as this will open up opportunities for alumni networking.

5) Review your contacts and groups

Go through your connections list and review who is in your network – are there people you have been in contact with recently that you may not have added? If so, reach out with a follow up message. Take a moment to also look to colleagues you work with or new clients that you are not connected with and add them to your network.

Take the time to review which groups you are a member of and whether you are engaging to get the most value professionally. Perhaps there are new groups you can join to broaden your network or leave others that are no longer relevant. A quick review of your group memberships will ensure you get the most value professionally and open up new opportunities.