LinkedIn: A Vehicle for your Personal Brand

Linked In’s tagline is “Relationships Matter.” True, but Linked In can be used for more than reaching out to others.

The social connection tool is a great way to network – not only in your current position, but when seeking employment elsewhere or hiring new customers and employees. But what Linked In can do for you beyond that is become a vehicle for establishing and maintaining your personal branding.

Dan Schawbel, author of Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success, recently contributed a guest post on SuperBlog with 5 tips for using Linked In to effectively brand yourself.

1. Use LinkedIn Groups
2. Fill out your profile completely
3. Unique URL
4. Applications (specifically WordPress blog RSS and Slideshare.net)
5. Linking

These are all great tips to make the most of Linked In, but what do you need to think about when putting yourself out there? Here are a few more tips to consider:

1. Chose a photo that represents you but is clean and professional. Don’t crop others out of a photo just because it’s the only picture you can find of you smiling – get a professional or amateur photographer to take proper pictures.
2. Don’t lie. Make sure that your profile holds you in good light, but don’t lie about any positions. If you’ve moved on from a company, change the dates of employment.
3. Use the system. Don’t expect to reap the benefits without giving Linked In a little love. Call upon connections when appropriate and show that you’re an active member.

Good luck!