5 LinkedIn Hacks You Need to Know to Improve Your Online Reputation
January 12, 2020
LinkedIn is the number one social media platform for professionals. Launched in 2003, LinkedIn has more than 690 million active users in over 200 countries. It has emerged as one of the most powerful platforms for building collaborations with others in your industry, engaging with your consumer audience, and improving your online reputation. And at a time when consumer trust in online content is at its lowest, LinkedIn has emerged as the most trusted network. It continues to strengthen, and if you’re not taking full advantage of this powerhouse social media channel, you should be. Put these five LinkedIn hacks to work to improve your online reputation.
1. Make Sure Your LinkedIn Profile is SEO Optimized
LinkedIn profiles rank high in online searches, something that will significantly improve your digital reputation. Like Google, if you want to improve your LinkedIn reach, you need to strategically incorporate the keywords that best represent you and your company. Embed them in the information you provide about your brand, experience, background, education, and skills.
2. Your Banner Image is Your Billboard
Linkedin has many under-utilized tools that can help you improve your online reputation. One of these is your profile banner. Your banner image is free advertising space. Think of it as a digital billboard. The imagery can be creative or emotive, if appropriate. However, be sure that it speaks to who you are and what you do. Make it vibrant, eye-catching, and informative so that in a few seconds, the viewer will know who you are and what you offer to the world.
3. Change Your Featured Content
The “About” section of your LinkedIn profile gives you an option to select featured content. Update your selected featured content with your latest website blog article, YouTube video, or other content that establishes you as a thought leader in your industry. Even if you open a company page, you’ll want to use the featured content tool on your personal profile.
4. Publish Regularly
LinkedIn Publishing offers a ready-made platform for publishing articles to increase your visibility and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. Your articles are visible on your profile, exposing your name and brand to thousands of LinkedIn members. LinkedIn Publishing is also a powerful marketing tool to secure contracts and partnerships with governments and businesses. According to a LinkedIn marketing survey, 55% of corporate decision-makers used thought leadership to vet companies.
5. Join and Participate in Relevant Groups
This LinkedIn hack is key to improving your online reputation and establishing you as a thought leader. Remember, the platform is a digital network of professionals. The more connections you have, the higher you will rank in LinkedIn search results. Make useful and engaging comments on your connections’ posts. Join relevant LinkedIn groups. Aim to become a designated “top contributor.” You earn this designation by consistently starting and engaging in group discussions.
Conclusion
Follow these five LinkedIn hacks, and you’re sure to improve your online reputation: