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Tuesday, October 5, 2010

How To Use LinkedIn-Creating A Great Profile

Creating an ideal LinkedIn profile isn't just a matter of filling in the blanks with accurate information and it is an important consideration in learning how to use LinkedIn. Sure, filling in the blanks is important, but it will only get you so far. If you want to wring every last bit of value out of your time on LinkedIn, you'll go above and beyond simple accuracy to create a profile that works.

There is a variety of things you can do to make that happen. We won't try to cover them all in this piece. However, we can isolate at least three tips you'll want to use as you generate your profile and learn how to use LinkedIn.

First, use the right email address. Yes, that sounds simple, but you'd be amazed at the number of people who use an email address for LinkedIn that they don't regularly track. You want to use your primary account--the one you read regularly or have open throughout the day. That's because you'll receive notifications and updates from the service at this account. If you're using a "once a week" account, you'll miss numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful (and valuable) interactions with others. Don't worry, LinkedIn won't bombard you with spam and there are ways to customize your mail flow. When you create your account and start building your profile, use your primary address.

Second, integrate your keywords into your profile. Before you started your profile, you should've given some thought to keywords. People will find you on LinkedIn based on searches using certain keywords. you want to use those identifying terms in your profile. Look at your list of keywords, rank them in importance and make sure you're using them throughout the material in your profile. Doing so will make you more visible and will more clearly identify you and your interests to others.

Third, provide comprehensive information. It's a "more the merrier" situation. The more detail you provide, the more likely it is that the right people will approach you. Being specific also gives people what they really want--information about you to help them determine whether or how to network with you. A comprehensive bio is also an outstanding credibility builder. It's your chance to show off some of your past work and accomplishments. Don't go with a bare bones bio. Get serious and get specific. Prove all of the necessary information.

These are just three examples of things you can do to supercharge your LinkedIn profile. There are many others. That's why you may find it worth your while to invest in a comprehensive system plan for the optimal usage of LinkedIn. A good blueprint will save you a great deal of time and energy as you begin your ascent in the social networking world and learn how to use LinkedIn.

Download your free LinkedIn Strategy Cashmap that shows you the step-by-step strategy of how to use LinkedIn and to leverage this important social platform to grow your business. Visit Cashmap.com to download your free Strategy Cashmap now.

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