You’ve probably heard of keyword optimization in the context of search engine optimization. While there’s no need to stuff a website or blog with the same keywords over and over, making sure that relevant keywords are on the right pages makes it easier for Google and Bing to rank those pages for related searches.

The same concept applies to your LinkedIn profile. When people are searching through LinkedIn for something that’s related to your business, you want to ensure that they come across your page. Even if your business is a perfect fit for what they need, if the keywords they’re using aren’t anywhere on your profile, the odds of them finding it are very slim. That’s why it’s so important for your profile to be properly optimized with the right keywords.

In terms of identifying what keywords to use, you can simply brainstorm or use a tool to get some validation. The most popular free keyword tool is Google’s Keyword Planner. While this free tool does require an AdWords account, you don’t actually need to run any ads to use it. Instead, as long as you have a Gmail account, you’ll be able to log into AdWords and begin using the tool.

Once you come up with a list of keywords from your brainstorming, using the tool or a combination of both methods, you can actually add them to your LinkedIn profile. There are six main areas of your profile where you’ll want to use the keywords. Keep in mind that you don’t have to use every keyword in each of the six areas. Instead, a much better approach is to naturally sprinkle them throughout it.

The first two areas that should contain relevant keywords are your profile’s headline and summary. Next, you’ll want to work some keywords into the descriptions of your current work experience, as well as your past work experience. Finally, both the skills and interests sections are great spots for putting keywords. By optimizing each of those six sections with keywords, you’ll make it much easier for the right people to find your profile and connect with you.

Daily Task

Think about what keywords best describe your business, and then add them throughout your profile in the six areas we covered.

Michelle Hummel is CEO of Web Strategy Plus a full-service digital marketing agency. She was recently nominated for the Woman-Owned Business of the Year! She’s a passionate Social Media Trainer with 15+ years of successful online business development, sales, and marketing experience. She also holds a valuable Internet Marketing Degree however with the ever-changing world of web marketing she strives to learn something new every day. 

She travels Nationwide visiting her 22 Social Media Enthusiasts Chapters delivering in-depth social media training. She also provides Social Media Certifications through founding Web Media University. A current contributing editor to The Franchise Dictionary Magazine and she has written 3 books in her series called, “The Social Media Magnet: Everything You Need to Know to Attract Customers with Social Media”, where she shares her best-kept secrets to success. She also specializes in helping Franchisors and Franchisees develop an integrated web marketing program to drive leads. She’s available for interviews via email, telephone, Skype video, news segments on location and more. Just let her know how she can help!