How Do We Know Who You Are?
As women, we often hesitate to trumpet our accomplishments. We were taught that humility is better than boastfulness, and we are hesitant to look like braggarts. Whether it is imposter syndrome or just because it is item #3784 on the to- do list, a lot of us have not updated our LinkedIn profile as recently or as completely as we should. We figure that if we are looking for a new job, we will be sending out our resume anyway, and if we’re not actively looking for a new job, why should we bother?
Throughout our leadership journey, we need to be cognizant of the impressions we are making. While there may have been a time that LinkedIn was only valuable for job seekers, it has grown into a place where professionals connect and network. In this increasingly digital world, your online profile has become your firm handshake and business card.
Whether you’ve met at a networking event (remember those?), reached out to make a sale, or been referred by a colleague, the first place many people will go to learn who you are is your LinkedIn profile. A well- curated and up-to-date profile shows that you are an engaged professional who is interested in building business relationships. Conversely, a profile with sparse detail and no recommendations can make you seem like an out- of- touch dinosaur.
Almost every time I spend a few minutes organizing my profile, I notice new sections and possibilities. There are other ways to connect along shared interests, geography or professional affiliations. This is the place where you share exactly what you want to be known for out into the world, and the place you want to be found. Make sure the information is current and detailed.
One last thing, even if none of the other points I’ve made are resonating with you: Giving recommendations and skill endorsements is an easy (and totally free) way to thank a current or former colleague for the work that they’ve done or the impact they’ve had. It is a way to support people who you have mentored or who have worked for you. Solid recommendations can be a huge asset to people who are trying to move up in their careers, and recent kind words carry more weight.
Our entire Nexus group philosophy is that leadership is a shared journey, please share some of yourself with those who are taking that trip with you.
As the Delivery Manager at Back Pocket Resources, Kaydi is able to leverage her experiences in education and entrepreneurship to help small businesses thrive through consultation, training, and process development. She is also the founder of MakeGreatAdults, a parenting website that exists to provide support and resources to families, particularly while dealing with the challenges posed by distance learning.