5 Ways to Stop Being Basic on LinkedIn

At this point, everyone in America with at least one ounce of work experience has a LinkedIn profile. We’re all so excited to showcase our skills and awesome connections to the world. Though we’re all racing to join the 500+ crew, basic men and women aren’t going to give us what we need for a power LinkedIn profile. You’re more than likely one of the basic people I’m speaking on. I’ve talked about how you’re misusing LinkedIn and how you can maximize your experience on the site as well. What I haven’t quite touched on is how you’re being basic! Don’t gasp. Everyone is guilty of this to some extent, particularly when they first join the network. These tips below will help you identify your basic behaviors and become a better connection!

1. Engage with your connections. If your inbox is empty, that’s a huge indicator that you’re basic. There are many opportunities to have productive and professional conversations on LinkedIn. You should be congratulating your connections on their updates, reaching out to connections you’ve worked with in the past, checking in on professors and administrators and doing anything to make an impact on your community.
2. Post regularly. If you never post anything to your feed, you’re being basic. LinkedIn is about sharing industry related material, updates on your career and professional life and interacting with others. You can’t do that if you’re not posting anything!
3. Add people. If you have less than 500 connections, something is wrong! The 500+ club is coveted yet easy to get into. You should be adding people daily in your industry, workplace, college/university… you name it! If you know them, add them. If you want to know them, reach out and add them. The purpose of LinkedIn is to build a network. Start connecting!
4. Keep your information updated. LinkedIn is essentially your online resume. Your next employer could be viewing your profile right now. Would they like what they see? Keep your information updated and add as much relevant content to your profile as possible. You want people to knock down your door for a job, not the other way around!
5. Start blogging. Blogging on LinkedIn is a great way to show your expertise in your industry. This will also knock out both #1 and #2 on this list as well because you will be posting regularly and engaging with your connections as you publish new content on a consistent basis!

Being a basic connection doesn’t have to ruin your reputation. Start engaging with others and posting regularly. You’ll see changes in your professional life and you’ll actually be using LinkedIn effectively. How do you use LinkedIn? Leave a comment below.