Since Microsoft’s $26.2 billion acquisition of business networking site LinkedIn in 2016, we’ve been waiting to see how the technology giant would weave the vast amounts of personal information contained within users’ profiles on LinkedIn into Microsoft’s powerful Office suite. Head of Cambridge PR and Social Media Agency Mobas, Adam Tuckwell brings us up to speed on the changes.
The time has now come as Microsoft rolls out LinkedIn integrations in outlook.com. This update allows email users to view insights, profile pictures, work history and more without leaving Office 365. Users will be able to click on an email contact’s name right in their inbox then view a rich contact card that includes a link to their LinkedIn profile. With a further click, you can view a mini-version of their profile right in this pop-up Office Profile Card, which includes highlights such as mutual connections or shared work experiences.
This added integration means that there has never been a better time to give your LinkedIn profile some love and attention. Here are our top 5 suggestions for smartening up your profile:
1. Add a photo
Your profile picture is the first thing people will see. Make sure it’s up-to-date, professional, and clear... no holiday snaps please!
2. Get your company right
Ensure your job title is still correct and that you’re working for the right company – you’d be surprised how many people fail to do this.
3. Write a compelling summary
The introduction is your chance to tell your own story, the role you have and the value that you add. It’s the first thing people read, so make it shine.
4. Clear out buzzwords and jargon
Resist the urge to add business buzzwords or industry-specific jargon to your profile. Everyone on LinkedIn is ‘passionate’ and ‘experienced’ so try to keep your profile factual.
5. Share your expertise
Many people wrongly see LinkedIn as simply a home for their digital CV. Rather it is a professional community, a knowledge-sharing platform and, critically, a showcase for your expertise. Add media to your profile, articles you’ve written or press coverage your firm has received. It will show some of your personality beyond your job titles and career history, as well as elevating both yours and your employer’s profile within your industry.
At Mobas, we work with a number of businesses looking to raise their profile and deliver business results through LinkedIn. If you’re interested in finding out more about the training we offer, our approach to social media management or our thought-leadership programmes, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
