You’ve been hearing for years how important it is that you have a completed LinkedIn profile. However, even if you do you may wonder what all the fuss is about. If your LinkedIn page isn’t grabbing anyone’s attention it may be time to make a change. Now that we’ve turned the calendar to 2015, give your LinkedIn profile a much needed makeover that can help the right employers find you online. Here are some changes you can make today.

1. Make your summary a call to action: The LinkedIn summary section is where most people put a paragraph or three about their background, experience, and skills. In general, the summary is going to be one of the first things a new or prospective connection reads so make sure it tells them what to do next. End the summary with a statement such as, “I am always looking for a new challenge so feel free to email me at,” and include your contact information. If you are currently employed and you don’t want your boss to see that you are looking, try to use more subtle language.
2. Know your audience: Before you start crafting your summary, you should also know who your target audience is. Your summary doesn’t have to be generic and boring. If you are specifically interested in accounting be sure to include information for that segment of the business world. The more specific you are in your personal marketing strategy the more likely you will be able to connect to the right people for your career.
3. Be conversational, not formal, in your summary: You’ve probably been told a thousand times to make sure your resume uses formal language and leaves out the first person pronouns. Even though LinkedIn is a form of a living, online resume it doesn’t need to follow the same format. Instead, think of it as face-to-face networking. When you introduce yourself in person you would say something like, “I am the IT manager of a large network security department at ABC Company.” Write on LinkedIn like you would speak.
4. Create an engaging and original professional summary: Finally, you want to make sure your summary statement is interesting to read and will keep the new connection’s eyes on your page as long as possible. Some people use humor but always be sure to keep it professional and appropriate. Be sure to focus on your accomplishments. Make statements that will trigger a need for your connection to learn more about you. Don’t give them every last detail because you want to save something for your first conversation.

Are you ready to make a major career change in 2015? VincentBenjamin is seeking talent in accounting, finance and information technology so call us today!