In today’s digital-first world, the way we present ourselves online is more important than ever. For many professionals, LinkedIn has become the primary platform for showcasing our personal brands. When someone looks you up online—whether it’s a potential employer, client, or business partner—chances are your LinkedIn profile will be one of the first things they see. Given this reality, it’s crucial to ensure that your LinkedIn profile is not only up-to-date but also a true reflection of your professional persona.

Despite its importance, many people make three common mistakes when it comes to their LinkedIn profiles:

1. They don’t take it as seriously as they should.
2. They only update it during major career milestones.
3. They fail to leverage new LinkedIn features that could help them stand out.

If you haven’t revisited your profile in a while, or if you’re guilty of any of these missteps, it’s time to make some important changes. Here’s how you can optimize your LinkedIn profile to make a lasting impression on those who check you out online.

1. Strengthen Your Headline

Your LinkedIn headline is one of the most critical elements of your profile, especially when it comes to search results. Surprisingly, many people stick to just their current job title and company name for their headline, missing out on a chance to craft something more engaging and memorable.

Rather than simply stating your role, consider including keywords that highlight your expertise and adding a unique twist that captures attention—something that sets you apart from others. This could be a specific skill you excel in, your passion for your work, or even a personal mantra.

For example, instead of “Marketing Manager at XYZ Corp,” you might write: “Marketing Manager | Branding Expert | Driven by Data and Creativity.”

With 220 characters available, you have ample space to create a headline that not only informs but also intrigues. Make sure it reflects both your professional identity and what makes you unique.

2. Revamp Your About Section

The About section is your opportunity to share your professional story and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Unfortunately, many people either overlook this section or don’t use it to its full potential.

To make the most of your About section, start with a powerful opening that grabs attention. You only have a few lines before the “see more” link, so make those first words count. Think of them as the hook that draws people in.

Here’s how to create an impactful About section:

• Use a conversational tone: Writing in the first person helps establish a connection with the reader. It makes your profile feel more personal and less like a formal biography.
• Blend professional and personal insights: While it’s important to highlight your skills and achievements, don’t forget to include personal elements like your passions, values, and interests outside of work. This makes you more relatable and gives a fuller picture of who you are.
• Tell a story: Use the space to narrate your career journey, highlighting key experiences and accomplishments that have shaped your professional life. Avoid filler content; every sentence should add value to your narrative.

Think of your About section as the story of your professional life—where you’ve been, where you are now, and where you’re going. It should be aspirational, giving people a sense of your goals and ambitions.

3. Optimize Your Skills

Skills are a vital part of your LinkedIn profile because they give others a quick snapshot of what you’re good at. However, the order in which they appear might not always reflect your current priorities or career goals.

LinkedIn allows you to reorder your skills, so take advantage of this feature. Make sure the top skills listed are the ones that best represent your current expertise and what you want to be known for. This not only helps others understand your strengths but also aligns your profile with your career aspirations.

Regularly review and update your skills. Add new ones that are relevant to your role, and remove any that no longer serve your professional brand.

4. Leverage the Featured Section

The Featured section on LinkedIn is a powerful tool for showcasing your most impressive work. It appears near the top of your profile, making it one of the first things visitors see. This section allows you to highlight articles, presentations, videos, or other media that demonstrate your expertise and thought leadership.

If you’re already using the Featured section, keep it updated with your most recent and relevant content. If you haven’t utilized this section yet, think about what you can add that will make a strong impression on those viewing your profile. Whether it’s a successful project you led, an article you authored, or a video where you share insights, the Featured section is the perfect place to put your best work on display.

5. Request New Recommendations

Recommendations on LinkedIn provide an opportunity for others to speak to your abilities and character, adding credibility to your profile. While most people have a few recommendations, they’re often outdated.

To keep your profile fresh and relevant, regularly ask for new recommendations—especially after completing significant projects or working with new colleagues or clients. These testimonials can help paint a fuller picture of your capabilities and the impact you have on those you work with.

When requesting a recommendation, be specific about what you’d like the person to highlight. This ensures that the recommendation aligns with your professional brand and supports the image you want to project.

The Final Word: Keep It Current and Aspirational

Your LinkedIn profile is a living document that should evolve along with your career. Regular updates not only keep your profile relevant but also ensure that it accurately reflects who you are and where you’re headed.

But don’t just focus on the present—think about the future, too. Your profile should be aspirational, positioning you for the next step in your career. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current field or pivot to a new one, your LinkedIn profile is your opportunity to shape how others perceive you and open the door to new opportunities.

Remember, LinkedIn is more than just a digital resume. It’s a platform where you can build and maintain your personal brand, connect with others, and showcase your expertise. By making these key updates, you can create a LinkedIn profile that not only captures who you are but also sets you apart from the crowd.

Take the time to invest in your LinkedIn presence—it’s an investment in your career success.