LinkedIn mistakes you're too qualified to make

You can't treat every social media platform the same if you plan on getting the most out of their features. LinkedIn, for example, is targeted towards showcasing your professional accomplishments and connecting with individuals working in relevant sectors. Opening up an account is a piece of cake, but you might as well be just another guy on the internet with a profile full of inconsistencies. Take note of these tips to create an identity that stands strong.

1. Using buzzwords

It's pretty obvious that you're glorifying yourself without claim when your LinkedIn says you're "an experienced industry specialist with a strong work ethic". People are past the stage where they'd be awed and dazzled by fancy phrases and terms. In a world full of posers trying to fake it till they make it, stand out by providing specific information on your career. Mention how many years you've spent in your industry, the problems you've solved and the initiatives you took rather than throwing made up job titles and buzzwords at your visitors.

2. Keeping your profile incomplete

Don't leave out important bits of information about your skills. Pay special attention to the title and personal summary since they form first impressions. As for recommendations, don't get caught up in quantity over quality. Two or three influencers saying how you've been an useful addition to their pursuits is more important than your friends and colleagues bluntly writing, "He's great. Very helpful". 

3. Using an inappropriate photo

That selfie you took in the middle of Mohakhali in broad daylight and uploaded on Instagram after filtering the originality out of it might have 179 likes on Facebook, but it is never going to sell on a platform full of potential employers. Take a decent photo with low distractions, in proper lighting, wearing clothes that don't represent your views on life. Also, smile; smug expressions aren't exactly the tell-tale signs of a fun co-worker.

4. Not expanding your network

The very basic point of being on LinkedIn is to connect. Ask to join relevant groups, seek out people who are leading your industry and engage in conversations. Ditch the default message text and mention how you're familiar with their work. Don't be robotic. Talk about what about them intrigues you and how you can relate to it.

5. Forgetting the status update

LinkedIn is a not a site for uploading your resume. Don't be the guy who opened his account ages ago and now stalks people without giving out anything about what he's been up to. Make sure you update your status every few days or so. Read a fascinating article? Finished a new project? Share links, let everyone know. In a fast-paced world where new interest points are coming up every minute, virtual cobwebs are the worst.