What To Know
- Knowing how to make a LinkedIn header that is both visually appealing and strategically effective can help you attract attention, showcase your expertise, and ultimately, land your dream job or connect with valuable collaborators.
- Consider using a high-quality photo of yourself, a relevant background image, or a graphic that represents your skills or interests.
- Your LinkedIn summary is your opportunity to elaborate on your headline and provide more context about your professional background and goals.
In the competitive landscape of professional networking, your LinkedIn profile is your digital resume. It’s your first impression, and a well-crafted LinkedIn header can make all the difference. Knowing how to make a LinkedIn header that is both visually appealing and strategically effective can help you attract attention, showcase your expertise, and ultimately, land your dream job or connect with valuable collaborators.
The Power of a Compelling LinkedIn Header
Your LinkedIn header is more than just a background image. It’s a strategic element that can significantly impact your online presence. A compelling header can:
- Grab attention: A visually engaging header can make your profile stand out in a crowded feed.
- Showcase your brand: Use your header to communicate your personal brand, values, and expertise.
- Highlight your skills: Include relevant keywords and phrases that potential employers or connections are searching for.
- Boost your credibility: A professional and well-designed header adds to your overall credibility.
- Drive engagement: A captivating header can encourage people to click on your profile and learn more about you.
How to Make a LinkedIn Header: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the importance of a strong LinkedIn header, let’s dive into the process of creating one.
1. Choose the Right Image
The first step is selecting an image that reflects your brand and resonates with your target audience. Here are some tips:
- Professionalism: Choose an image that is professional and appropriate for your industry. Consider using a high-quality photo of yourself, a relevant background image, or a graphic that represents your skills or interests.
- Visual Appeal: Select an image that is visually appealing and captures attention. Opt for a clear, high-resolution photo with strong composition and colors.
- Brand Alignment: Ensure the image aligns with your personal brand and the message you want to convey. If you’re a designer, consider using a creative and artistic image. If you’re in finance, a more conservative and professional image might be suitable.
2. Optimize the Image Size
LinkedIn has specific image size requirements for headers. Make sure your image meets these guidelines to ensure it displays correctly:
- Width: 1584 pixels
- Height: 396 pixels
You can use a free online image editor like Canva or Adobe Spark to resize your image to the correct dimensions.
3. Craft a Compelling Headline
Your headline is the text that appears directly below your profile picture. This is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and summarize your expertise. Here are some tips for crafting a compelling headline:
- Keep it concise: Aim for a headline that is 120 characters or less.
- Highlight your skills: Include keywords that describe your skills and expertise.
- Use action verbs: Use strong verbs to showcase your achievements and goals.
- Be specific: Clearly state your current role or desired position.
4. Write a Concise and Engaging Summary
Your LinkedIn summary is your opportunity to elaborate on your headline and provide more context about your professional background and goals. Here are some tips for writing a compelling summary:
- Start with a strong hook: Grab the reader’s attention with a compelling opening sentence.
- Highlight your key skills and achievements: Showcase your expertise and accomplishments in a concise and impactful way.
- Use keywords: Include relevant keywords that potential employers or connections are searching for.
- Keep it concise: Aim for a summary that is 2-3 paragraphs in length.
5. Utilize Background Text
LinkedIn allows you to add background text to your header, which can be used to further emphasize your skills or goals. Here are some tips for using background text effectively:
- Keep it short and impactful: Use a few words or a short phrase that summarizes your expertise or desired position.
- Use keywords: Include relevant keywords that will help people find you.
- Choose a contrasting color: Select a color that contrasts with your background image to make the text stand out.
Beyond the Basics: Tips for Making Your Header Stand Out
While the steps above provide a solid foundation, there are additional strategies you can use to make your LinkedIn header truly stand out.
1. Use a Custom Background Image
Instead of using a generic background image, consider creating a custom image that reflects your brand or expertise. You can use a design tool like Canva to create a unique and eye-catching image.
2. Add a Call to Action
Include a call to action in your header, such as “Connect with me” or “Visit my website.” This encourages people to engage with your profile further.
3. Update Your Header Regularly
Keep your header fresh by updating it regularly with new images, headlines, or background text. This helps keep your profile relevant and engaging.
The Final Touch: Make It Your Own
Remember, your LinkedIn header is a reflection of your personal brand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative. Use the tips and strategies outlined above as a starting point, and adapt them to suit your unique needs and goals.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What are some good examples of LinkedIn headers?
A: There are many examples of effective LinkedIn headers. Look for headers that are visually appealing, showcase relevant skills, and include a clear call to action. You can also find inspiration by browsing the profiles of people in your industry or field.
Q: Can I use a personal photo as my LinkedIn header?
A: While using a professional headshot is common, you can also use a personal photo as long as it is appropriate for a professional setting. Consider using a photo that showcases your personality and interests in a positive light.
Q: How often should I update my LinkedIn header?
A: It’s a good idea to update your header at least once a year or whenever you make significant changes to your career or personal brand.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when designing a LinkedIn header?
A: Some common mistakes to avoid include using low-resolution images, choosing an image that is too busy or distracting, and failing to include relevant keywords.
Q: How can I make sure my LinkedIn header is mobile-friendly?
A: Always preview your header on both desktop and mobile devices to ensure it displays correctly. Make sure the image is optimized for different screen sizes and that the text is legible on smaller screens.
