Keith Warrick, my friend and fellow LinkedIn evangelist, was interviewed on BDPA Blog Talk Radio about professional social networking. Keith was an early adopter of Linkedin, becoming a member well before I joined April 1, 2005.
In the BDPA interview Keith pointed out the benefits of LinkedIn goes far beyond an online resume. So many people turn to LinkedIn when they are in career transition only. LinkedIn is a powerful tool which can promote your skills, demonstrate creditability and build relationship.
Keith says, “LinkedIn is an unique marketing and advertising platform that promotes a product. That product is YOU.”
Keith suggests fully completing your LinkedIn profile to gain the most benefit. LinkedIn will prompt you to create a 100% complete profile and coax you along to do so. Keith says just 2% of LinkedIn 150 million members have a 100% complete profile.
To reach 100% profile completeness, add all of the following to your profile:
- Industry and postal code
- A current position with description
- Two more positions
- Education
- At least 3 skills
- Profile photo
- At least 50 connections
As Keith says, imitation is the best form of flattery. Take a look at Keith’s or my profile for idea on how you can attract your target audience to find you through the LinkedIn search features.
Click below to listen to Keith’s interview with BDPA.