What To Know
- And while your experience and skills are crucial, your “About” section is your chance to tell your story, showcase your unique value, and truly connect with your audience.
- Highlight your relevant skills and experience, and showcase your accomplishments in a way that demonstrates your value to their company.
- A professional background image can help you stand out and create a more engaging profile.
Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume and professional brand. It’s the first impression you make on potential employers, recruiters, and industry connections. And while your experience and skills are crucial, your “About” section is your chance to tell your story, showcase your unique value, and truly connect with your audience. This is where “how to write about for LinkedIn” becomes a key skill.
Start with a Compelling Hook
The “About” section is your opportunity to grab attention and make a lasting impression. Don’t waste it with a generic, boring statement. Instead, begin with a powerful hook that draws readers in and makes them want to learn more.
Here are some ideas:
- Start with a question: “Are you tired of feeling stuck in your career?” “Want to learn how to build a successful business online?”
- Share a personal anecdote: “My passion for [your field] began when…” “I’ve always been fascinated by…”
- Highlight a key achievement: “I helped my previous company achieve a [quantifiable result]…”
- Use a bold statement: “I’m a results-driven professional with a proven track record of success.”
Craft a Compelling Narrative
Once you’ve hooked your reader, it’s time to tell your story. This isn’t just about listing your skills and experience; it’s about showcasing your unique personality, values, and what drives you.
Here’s how to craft a compelling narrative:
- Focus on your “why”: Why are you passionate about your work? What are your goals and aspirations? Why should someone connect with you?
- Highlight transferable skills: Don’t just list your job titles; explain how your skills and experience are relevant to different roles and industries.
- Use action verbs: Instead of saying “I am responsible for…” say “I lead…” or “I manage…”.
- Show, don’t tell: Back up your claims with specific examples and quantifiable results.
Tailor Your “About” for Your Audience
Your “About” section should be tailored to the specific people you want to connect with. Think about your target audience and what they’re looking for.
- For recruiters: Highlight your relevant skills and experience, and showcase your accomplishments in a way that demonstrates your value to their company.
- For potential clients: Focus on your expertise and the solutions you offer.
- For industry peers: Show your knowledge and insights, and express your desire to collaborate and learn.
Use Keywords Strategically
Keywords are essential for making your profile discoverable on LinkedIn. Use keywords that are relevant to your industry, skills, and experience, and incorporate them naturally into your “About” section.
- Research relevant keywords: Use LinkedIn’s search bar, job postings, and industry websites to find relevant keywords.
- Use a keyword tool: There are several free and paid keyword tools available online that can help you identify high-volume keywords.
- Use keywords throughout your profile: Include keywords in your headline, summary, experience, and skills sections.
Keep It Concise and Engaging
Your “About” section should be concise and easy to read. Use bullet points, short paragraphs, and clear language.
- Aim for 2-3 paragraphs: Don’t write a novel; keep it short and sweet.
- Use strong verbs and active voice: Make your writing dynamic and engaging.
- Use white space: Break up your text with bullet points, line breaks, and headings to make it easier to read.
Proofread and Optimize Regularly
Once you’ve written your “About” section, proofread it carefully for any typos or grammatical errors. Also, consider optimizing your profile regularly by updating your experience, skills, and keywords.
Beyond the Words: The Visual Element
Your “About” section is more than just words; it’s also about visual presentation.
- Use a professional headshot: A high-quality headshot is essential for making a good first impression.
- Add a background image: A professional background image can help you stand out and create a more engaging profile.
- Link to your website or portfolio: Include links to your website, portfolio, or other relevant online presence to showcase your work.
The Final Touches: Call to Action and Engagement
End your “About” section with a strong call to action. Let people know what you want them to do next.
- Connect with you: Encourage readers to connect with you on LinkedIn.
- Visit your website: Direct readers to your website or portfolio.
- Follow you on social media: Share your social media handles.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the ‘About’
Your “About” section is just one part of your LinkedIn profile. To maximize your online presence, you need to focus on all aspects of your profile, including your headline, experience, skills, and recommendations.
Questions You May Have
Q: How long should my “About” section be?
A: Aim for 2-3 paragraphs, or around 200-300 words. Keep it concise and engaging.
Q: What if I don’t have much experience?
A: Focus on your transferable skills and what you’re passionate about. Highlight any relevant projects, volunteer work, or academic achievements.
Q: How often should I update my “About” section?
A: It’s a good idea to update your “About” section at least once a year, or whenever you make significant career changes.
Q: What are some examples of “About” sections I can use as inspiration?
A: Search for profiles of people in your industry or with similar experience. Look at their “About” sections and see what works well.
Q: How do I make my “About” section stand out?
A: Use a compelling hook, tell your story, use keywords strategically, and keep it concise and engaging. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and passion.
