Everyone knows headlines are important, but what exactly is a headline?
"Headline: [noun] a head of a newspaper story or article printed in large type and giving the gist of the story or article that follows" (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
But if headlines are so important, then why do most LinkedIn profile headlines (maybe even yours) simply state a person's current title and current company name? Because the user hasn't updated his/her headline.
Until you craft a first-class, 220-character (increased last year from 120 characters) descriptor of who you are and what you do, LinkedIn puts your current title and company in your headline so you don't embarrass yourself by simply having the default headline.
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What goes into a great LinkedIn headline
Your LinkedIn headline should:
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- Provide viewers of your profile with a short, concise statement of who you are and how you can help them
- Include your most important keywords so you are at the top of the search results when people search for someone like you
- Encourage people to look at your entire profile, where they can see your full story and find a reason to engage with you
So, how are you feeling about your LinkedIn headline?
If you're feeling great about it, stop reading and share this article with a friend who needs it.
If there's room for improvement, get busy and start crafting a killer headline.
To get you headed in the right direction, below is one of my most popular worksheets, The Definitive Worksheet to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile Headline. I have shared this worksheet with thousands of people over the last eight years. This three-page, downloadable worksheet is the 2021 version that has been updated for the recent changes on LinkedIn.
Also, if you'd like my personal feedback on your headline so you can start attracting people who need your products and services, sign up for one of my specially priced $197 one-on-one LinkedIn consultations. Get more info and book your session here.
I will share my computer screen with you during the call and send you a marked-up copy of your profile prior to the call.
Whether you’re using LinkedIn to find your next high-impact customer, raise your organization’s profile, or land the job of your dreams, this session is for you.
There are limited spots available, so don't delay. Book your session today by clicking here.
