You’re a savvy professional. You already know that you need a strong LinkedIn presence to increase your visibility, grow your network, enhance your reputation and personal brand, and take your career to the next level.

But leveraging the full value LinkedIn offers as a job-search and career-building tool takes more than uploading a professional headshot and drafting a compelling headline. It takes consistent, intentional effort. If you’re ready to up your LinkedIn game, here are four smart action steps (read: habits) to take, starting today:

Make Regular Updates

As you broaden your skills, complete new projects and take on additional responsibilities, reflect those changes in your LinkedIn profile. Periodically update your Summary, Experience, Projects and Honors & Awards sections to reflect your career growth. Double-check your Privacy and Settings options to make sure that those updates get published, so recruiters see your growth, too.

Increase Your Profile’s “Searchability”

Aligning your profile information with LinkedIn Recruiter’s search fields naturally increases the chances that recruiters or hiring managers will find it. Edit your profile so that it addresses the following search fields recruiters commonly use: title, status, current company, location, industry, degree, field of study, function, seniority level, years at position, years at company, years of experience, all groups, interested in and when joined.

Add Media

Most people are “visual learners,” and we all process visual information much more rapidly than text. Grab potential employers’ attention – and hold it longer – by:

• Adding thumbnail images of reports, published materials or other projects you’ve worked on.

• Uploading slide examples of PowerPoint presentations you’ve given.

• Linking to blog posts you’ve written or positive press you’ve received.

Direct People To It

Even if you build a phenomenal profile, the right people won’t necessarily find you. So draw a digital map for them! Get more people to check out your profile by:

• Adding a link to your digital resume

• Including a LinkedIn button in your email signature

• Using a QR code (that links to your profile) on your business card, cover letters or even name badges at networking functions 

Need Help Refining Your LinkedIn Profile?

Contact an Exact Staff Career Agent. We can help you identify your strengths, evaluate your career options, and strengthen both your resume and LinkedIn profile. And if you’re ready for a new opportunity to build your skills and advance your career, register with your local Exact Staff office today.