A very common and important question I receive is, “How do I improve my LinkedIn page?” Well, LinkedIn is now answering the question of how they can improve their resources for you. LinkedIn recently announced that they would be expanding to include online resources to build their user’s skills. They plan to do this through acquiring Lynda.com, an online learning company.

Ryan Roslansky, LinkedIn’s head of content products stated in a company blog, “together, I believe we can make it even easier for professionals around the world to accelerate their careers and realize their potential through the learning and development of new skills.”

It is not clear what these resources will look like just yet, but it is interesting to note that LinkedIn is embracing the idea that they can help you build your resume.

In the meantime, while we await the launch of these new tools, I would like to provide 7 tips to answer the question of how to improve your LinkedIn profile. With these tips, everyone can shine online.

1) Your Headline: This can be up to 120 characters but I advise individuals to consider using key words that describe them not only as a scientist but also as a team player. These key words should show in brief who you are and how you feel others view you in your work environment.

2) The Summary: I encourage you to use bulleted points about who you are and what you do. Include your research (in brief and in layman’s terms), additional skills you may have, and ideas for potential future areas of interest. If you are looking to collaborate, include a call to action for others to get in touch with you. The key here is to be brief so that a reader
can digest the information easily.

3) 100% Complete: You need to strive for a 100 percent completed profile. Completed profiles show up higher in search results and are therefore a better resource to those who view them.

4) The photo: Include a photo on your profile, but make sure it’s professional. Everyone needs a professional photo. You can get a professional photo taken here at UTHSCSA. It is reasonable and painless. Book your session here now.

5) Links: Many of you have profiles on your department’s site you could link there. Also, do not hesitate to link to a personal site, as long as it reflects the positive image that you’d like to give out to other professionals. I often link to articles that I have written and those that have been written about my work.

6) Update your profile regularly: I know that we are all busy, but it is key to keep this site up to date with the work
ou are doing as well as your accomplishments. I view mine as an extension of my NIH biosketch or C.V. and update them bi-monthly.

7) Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for someone to review your profile just like you would your C.V. or biosketch. Please contact me to schedule an appointment and I will be happy to go through any/all of these documents with you.

For additional resources, click here to see another tip sheet or to see Dr. Teresa Evans‘ full LinkedIn profile.