5 LinkedIn profile updates to make today

LinkedIn is a tool used to build professional relationships so it's important it is updated to reflect the current version of you.

Here are 5 tips to pimp your LinkedIn profile:

Refresh your profile photo

It’s important to update your profile photo. Make sure it is taken facing forward with a professional backdrop and a smile. When uploading the file, name it 'yourname.jpg' this will ensure it sits on the first page of Google as well as in Google image searches when your name is entered.

Revise your summary

Your summary is an opportunity to tell your story and introduce yourself to profile viewers. 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 as to what next steps you want the reader to take.

Add supporting media and documents

Review any documents such as presentations, whitepapers and images of your work that can support your profile. This will boost your visual portfolio and support your written profile. Always ensure you have permission to share your work publicly, especially if there is commercially sensitive information included within it.

Update your current experience & record achievements

Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume, so even if you're not looking to change roles it's important to update your current experience with any new achievements. Things to include are certifications, courses, awards, languages, projects and publications. Also reflect on any charity or volunteering work you may have done which can be added to your profile.

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

Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume

Review your contacts and groups

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

Take the time to review which groups you're 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.