As we launch into the New Year, it seemed like a fun exercise to look at the Presidential Candidates LinkedIn profiles and leverage them to highlight best practices and opportunities.
Many people underleverage their profiles, and like some of the candidates, have not updated them in a long time.
If LinkedIn profiles determined nominations, and then elections, who would win? Remember, for many professionals LinkedIn can be a deal breaker when it comes to making a first impression. LinkedIn can also be a life saver when it comes to staying visible and relevant to your network.
Top 10 Insights from the Presidential Candidates
1. Do have a great headshot and banner for your profile
Make sure the sizing is right and look at your profile as a visitor would, View Profile As.
2. Do create a company page
Leverage it to share information and news, this is a self-selected audience, and they care about staying in touch.
3. Don’t underestimate the power of writing Posts
LinkedIn allows you to blog and write your own story. The most powerful part of LinkedIn is that you have the ability to create your own narrative – visually and verbally.
Many of the candidates have outdated profiles and could use some help checking them and making updates.5. Make sure your profile can be seen by others
Donald Trump and Chris Christie do not have profiles; it could be because their profiles were private. Double check and make sure your profile is public.6. Tell Your Story – I.M.P.R.E.S.S. people
Earlier, I wrote about leveraging the I.M.P.R.E.S.S. model to assess your LinkedIn profile and resume. It is important to include details that highlight your impact and conveys the value of your contribution. Most candidates missed this opportunity.
7. Do leverage video this year
If you have not done a video, it is highly recommended to create a short video bio to introduce yourself on your profile. You could also include video about your company, a TED talk you gave, etc.
8. Share content regularly
Be sure to share interesting insights that you curate and create with your audience. If you never interact, do not be surprised when you are out of sight, out of mind.
9. Do develop goals and metrics
Be clear on what you want LinkedIn to do for you and then invest accordingly. Measure where you are on views, engagement, etc. and then go for it.
10. Reframe your perspective
Think of LinkedIn like your professional playground, get to know others, celebrate others, and share interesting and provocative ideas. Remember to be nice and keep it professional.
If LinkedIn Profiles could predict candidate success, check out the below presentation to learn which candidate would be nominated from each party and then who would be the ultimate winner.
Sincerely,
Jen
