LinkedIn has consistently ranked as the most trusted social media site. With 700 million users as of 2020, it is not surprising that more and more professionals are making it their platform of choice. For those new to the world of LinkedIn, the website markets itself as a social media platform that revolves around professional networking, allowing people to connect with clients, co-workers, friends, employers and employees.
As a lawyer, it is essential to create a LinkedIn profile people want to look at.
Here is a handy guide to show you the six most crucial parts of your LinkedIn profile.
LinkedIn Attorney Profile Picture
Do not use a photo that is twenty years old, shows you in a group, or a full-length photo. LinkedIn profile pictures are incredibly small, and they need to showcase you as you are today. Upload a photo that is a recent, high-quality image, ideally with a light background. While we are on the subject, please check your background as well. I have seen way too many profiles with a dirty or cluttered background, and it takes my focus off you.
LinkedIn Profile Headline
Aim for a headline that says a lot about you. Do not use inspirational quotes from your favorite author or a funny meme. Professionals are going to view this. Instead, list some of your key skills and talents. List your keywords, practice areas, what you specialize in, any awards you have received, etc. Do not be afraid to brag. Your headline needs to make you stand out.
Profile Background Image
Select an image that is professional and says a lot about you. Again, avoid cheesy quotes or memes. I recommend hiring a graphic designer to create a background image that includes your practice areas, branding, website URL, and phone number. Doing this allows people who are quickly going through profiles to discover the most vital information they need about you.
Summary Statement
Too often, I see people use their summary statements to focus on what they do. Ideally, your headline already tells them that. Instead, focus on why you chose to go into law and your practice area, then also how you help your clients. Talk about why you enjoy helping people and what made you choose your specialty in the first place. This is the best spot on your profile to talk about your career highlights and accomplishments.
Recommendations
Recommendations are basically reviews of your services and you as a person, building trust and credibility with potential clients by showing them how pleased others are with your services. Nothing speaks to potential clients more than testimonials from people you have worked with. These third-party validations are crucial for your success on the platform and give you authority in your sector.
Consistent LinkedIn Posting
Just like any other social media platform, you need to post consistently to keep your followers in the loop. Stay active by posting, liking, sharing, and commenting on posts. However, do not share or post just to stay active. People want engaging and informative content they can reference. You can publish articles through LinkedIn to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. If you simply do not have the time to write content, make sure everything you share is educational and catches people’s attention to keep them engaged with your profile.
LinkedIn is one of the most important social media tools at any attorney’s disposal, allowing them to connect and interact with established and potential clients as well as industry leaders. After following this guide to optimize your LinkedIn profile, you can find more about using the platform to get better client referrals in my post below. Let 2021 be the year you make your LinkedIn profile a key marketing tool for your practice.
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