LinkedIn is no longer just a networking site; it’s a dynamic platform that propels professional growth, facilitates meaningful connections, and increases organic traffic.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for SEO. At Clapping Dog Media, I recommend nearly every one of my clients to be active on it. Why? Because clients are on it.
40% of the active users on LinkedIn are on it everyday.
This post, is the second of at least three, but likely many more articles about how to use LinkedIn to get more clients and organic traffic. This post will zoom in on individual strategies to amplify your professional brand and digital influence. If you missed the first part of our LinkedIn series about how LinkedIn directly affects SEO, read it now.
This is worth repeating.
Google is displaying multiple platforms on the Search Results Page, in addition to websites, Google puts LinkedIn profiles + articles, YouTube Channels, TikToks, and Reddit strings on the Search Results Page. Your goal as a business owner is to take up as much space on Page 1 as possible.
LinkedIn profiles often rank high in search results for anyone searching for your name or your business online. Additionally, a well-optimized LinkedIn profile can showcase your expertise, achievements, and network, establishing your credibility and authority in your industry. This not only attracts quality connections but also leverages the platform’s vast network to amplify your reach, ultimately driving more organic traffic to your website.
How to Optimize LinkedIn for SEO
- Start with a professional headshot. A simple background with you facing the camera is ideal.
- Write an engaging headline. This appears just under your name, and showcases your achievements.
- Here is mine as an example.
Take Advantage of the Banner Image. Notice that the banner image has a purpose, it isn’t just pretty, there is a large, bold What I do headline under the logo.
Here is another great example, from my friend Molly who has taught me a lot about LinkedIn. If you want focused help with your LinkedIn, I highly recommend that you send Molly a message via LinkedIn. She is fantastic.
The next step for optimizing your Linkedin Profile is to write a keyword rich About Section.
This section is the text box at the top of your LinkedIn Profile, just under your photo. It’s an open-ended space (sort of; 2,000 characters max) where you give an overview of your professional life. This is where you post your experience and accomplishments. Here is a site with a good example for the About Section. I encourage to check out other peoples About Section, there is no right answer for this section.
The Featured Links section is next. The Featured section is a new area on your LinkedIn profile where you can showcase work samples that you’re most proud of. For example, you can feature posts that you’ve authored or re-shared, articles you’ve published on LinkedIn, and even external media like images, documents and links. I really like my friend Stephens.
He offers 3 clean, easy ways to connect with him – Power Hours, Newsletter and his Podcast.
Following that, is the Experience section. In my profile, I’ve highlighted several case studies, offering an opportunity to delve into the specifics of past projects and current roles. You can choose to highlight past jobs or specific projects, this includes job titles, company names, employment periods, and notable accomplishments. This approach not only narrates your professional journey but also enriches the section with valuable keywords, making it a pivotal part of the LinkedIn narrative.
The final piece to your LinkedIn Profile is the Recommendation section. This is where your contacts can post a testimonial. These are on TO DO list for the next quarter, I am going to write more for clients and partners AND ask for more recommendations.
Linkedin is a powerful tool to help you extend your brand and build your client list. Take this first step to get your profile found.
