Lessons from LinkedIn and online user profiles

Most readers here will be seeking new customers. And some may also be
seeking a new romantic relationship. And LinkedIn and reputable dating sites
are key channels to achieve those objectives.

Now before anyone starts throwing darts of outrage or grits their teeth to the gum, let me state clearly that internet dating sites are not intended for business. Neither is LinkedIn the platform to find a date or spouse. Yet the core elements of success, mistakes, lessons and intent of both are comparable.

LinkedIn and several dating sites provide great opportunities for
visibility, impact and influence. Profiles that authentically reflect the brand
promise achieve the best results.

Profiles that are clear, honest, creative and interesting aren't always easy to deliver. Being a LinkedIn trainer and marketer for several years, along with meeting my current husband on RSVP nine years ago, I have waded through thousands of profiles. I know a thing or ten on which will, and won't, cut the mustard.

Duplicated banality

Does any of the following sound familiar?

LinkedIn: “I am a seasoned, results-driven professional with a solid
track record. I have a proven history of solving problems. I worry about my
clients and building new networks.”

Dating sites: “I love quiet nights at home and going out. I enjoy walks
around the beach and good food. I have a great sense of humour and my loved ones is
very important to me.”

The above are recurrent examples of lazy, duplicated boring clichés that may apply to any other Tom, Dick and Mary. They have no value or context, are subjective and are as inspiring as a sack of rotten potatoes.

Delusion vs optimism

Trust is the foundation of all successful relationships. It's useless
attempting to portray yourself as 2 metres tall if you are 1.5 metres; as
extroverted if the introvert; or as a global influencer if you are a local TAFE
graduate. Rhetoric must match reality.

It's a rabbit hole of delusion when initial interest rates are driven by
pretence and hence not sustainable. “Fake it until you make it” is complete
nonsense. It causes undue stress as it is impossible to be the answer to
everyone's prayers and requires. You will attract some and repel others as your
vibe will attract your tribe.

Top LinkedIn profile tips

1. Self-reflection and
   courage may be the backdrop to attract ideal clients, position your value and
   expertise.
2. Share why is you
   tick and what is important to you. Put a spotlight in your who, what, why,
   where, when and different differentiators (you have 2000 characters).
3. Show some
   personality or even a glimpse of your life passions (as appropriate).
4. A current and clear
   photograph that is a realistic best version of you. No sunnies, wedding, group
   and out-of-focus photos.
5. The headline is a
   critical identification search field. With circa 180 characters, add your
   profession, areas of expertise, target markets, key information and concentrate.  Leave out extraneous and salesy fluff.
6. A branded banner
   constitutes a real impression. Add logos, images, taglines, media and website
   elements.
7. Name field – just for
   names (and suffixes and qualifications), extra information is tacky.
8. Voice recording
   feature. Introduce yourself in Thirty seconds.
9. Show don't tell,
   weave your unique story conversationally.
10. Ditch clichés, banal
    and blanket statements. Add context.
11. Make simple to use to be
    contacted and include your details.

Summing up

LinkedIn profiles that are unique, relevant and engaging plus a
strategic marketing plan will deliver top results.

Oh, and unless you are a food, you are not seasoned and not everyone enjoys walks on the beach!

DARE Group Australia is a valued content partner of Inside Small Business