LINKEDIN PROFILE

OPTIMIZATION CHECKLIST

PROFILE PHOTO
• 400 x 400 px BACKGROUND
• Face at least 60% of image IMAGE
• Natural Lighting • 1584 x 396 px / 4:1
• Warm, Approachable Face • Re ective of your brand
• Wear what you wear to work • Consistent with your pro le pic
• Try a bright color background • Make a graphic on Canva – add
some text!

HEADLINE
SUMMARY
• 220 characters – make it count!
• Add relevant keywords • 2000 characters
• Job title / what you do • Use storytelling – share your
• Make it fun career journey
• Add a value proposition – what • Consider adding your goals and
value do you add? hobbies
• Mention key career moments &
achievements

SKILLS
• Up to 50 (but be selective) EXPERIENCE
• Categorized by: Industry • Add details about each role
knowledge, Tools & Technologies,
you've held, focussing on
Interpersonal Skills – Try to add all 3
responsibilities, skills learned
• Reorder based on most important
and projects delivered
• Ask others to endorse your skills
• Include measurable
• Add licenses or certi cations
performance outcomes

RECOMMENDATIONS
• These are personal testimonials about you
• Ask former managers, colleagues and team members for recommendations
• Give recommendations to people you’ve worked with
© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 1
fl
fl
fi
fi
THE POWER OF LINKEDIN
LinkedIn, with its vast network of over 930 million professionals
worldwide, has emerged as the leading platform for business
networking. It has transformed from a mere recruitment tool to
a robust marketing platform, making it indispensable for
Advisors seeking to expand their professional connections.

If you haven't yet established a presence on LinkedIn, you're

overlooking valuable opportunities to engage with prospective
employers, clients, prospects, and industry experts, ultimately
hindering your growth and potential for success.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 2
fl
 Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
1. Claim your Vanity URL Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
In the default LinkedIn URL, a unique identi er consisting of numbers is
automatically appended to the end of the URL. This identi er differentiates
your pro le from others with the same name on LinkedIn.

On the other hand, a customized LinkedIn URL allows you to personalize your
pro le's web address by removing the random numbers and tailoring it to your
name or professional brand. This customized URL makes it easier to share your
LinkedIn pro le with others and enhances your professional image.

Example of a default LinkedIn URL:

www.linkedin.com/in/johndoe-123456789

Example of a customized LinkedIn URL:

www.linkedin.com/in/johndoe

To change your URL, follow these steps:

1. Under your pro le, choose ‘’Edit Pro le’’.

2. Next to public pro le, you’ll see your LinkedIn URL.
3. Click ‘’Edit’’ to change the URL.
4. To the right, in the ‘’Your public pro le’’ URL dialog box, click ‘’Customize
your public pro le URL’’.
5. Choose a URL that matches your name as closely as possible.
6. Click ‘’Set Custom URL’’ to save your change.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 3
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linke
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin
2. Photo & HeadlineLinkedin Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin

PROFESSIONAL PHOTO
When uploading a photo to your LinkedIn pro le, choose one taken in a
professional setting where you are dressed appropriately. It's important to
present a personable and professional image that accurately re ects who you
are as a professional. While you don't necessarily need to hire a professional
photographer, aim to upload a smiling photo that conveys professionalism and
approachability. Remember, your pro le picture is the rst impression you
make on others, so selecting a photo that showcases your best self will help
you make a positive impact.

COMPELLING HEADLINE
Your headline matters! It's is the rst thing someone will see (besides your
photo) so make it catchy and attention grabbing. It should go beyond your job
title to highlight your unique value proposition and the outcomes you deliver,
showcasing your passion and expertise in a concise and engaging manner.

Suggested Template:

[Job Title] with a Passion for [Area of Expertise] | Helping

[Target Audience] Achieve [Desirable Outcome]

Examples:
• Digital Marketer with a Passion for Brand Strategy | Helping Small
Businesses Achieve Online Success
• HR Consultant with a Passion for Talent Development | Helping
Professionals Unlock Their Full Potential
• Financial Advisor with a Passion for Wealth Management | Helping
Individuals Secure Financial Freedom

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 4
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fl
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
Linkedin Linkedin
3. Summary Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
ENGAGING SUMMARY
In your LinkedIn summary, take advantage of the 2000 characters available to
create a captivating and informative narrative. Use this space to provide a
comprehensive overview of your professional journey, including your role,
experience, notable achievements, unique qualities, and future aspirations.

Additionally, leverage the summary section to strategically incorporate relevant

keywords that align with your desired search engine rankings. By crafting a
compelling LinkedIn summary, you can effectively showcase your expertise,
differentiate yourself from others, and attract meaningful connections and
opportunities.

Here are a few ways to personalize your LinkedIn summary to make it more
engaging and memorable, adding a personal touch:

• Tell a Story: Begin your summary with an intriguing anecdote or a personal

story that highlights your professional journey or a signi cant career
milestone. This helps create a connection with the reader and makes your
summary more relatable.
• Use Humor: Incorporate a touch of humor or wit into your summary to
inject a lighthearted tone. You can include a clever wordplay, a witty remark,
or a funny work-related anecdote that showcases your personality while
maintaining professionalism.
• Include Quirky Facts or Interests: Share unique or unexpected facts about
yourself that demonstrate your diverse interests or hobbies. For example,
you could mention your love for cooking, a quirky collection, or an unusual
skill that sets you apart.
• Infuse Passion and Energy: Use enthusiastic language to express your
passion for your work, industry, or a speci c cause. Let your excitement

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 5
fl
fi
fi
 shine through your words, showcasing your dedication and genuine
interest in what you do.
• Share Inspirational Quotes: Include an inspiring quote that resonates with
your professional journey or re ects your values. This can add a
motivational touch and leave a positive impression on the reader.
• Showcase Achievements with Metrics: Quantify your achievements with
speci c metrics whenever possible. Highlighting your accomplishments in
measurable terms adds credibility and showcases your impact.
Remember to balance professionalism with personalization. While it's essential
to be authentic and engaging, ensure that your personal touches align with
your industry and target audience.

Examples of sharing key skills and experience:

• With over [X] years of experience in [Industry], I am dedicated to delivering
exceptional results through strategic planning, innovative problem-solving, and
collaborative leadership.
• Passionate about [Area of Expertise], I thrive on helping individuals and
organizations reach their full potential. Through customized coaching and
actionable strategies, I empower clients to achieve their career goals and unlock
their true capabilities.
• As a seasoned [Job Title], I have a proven track record of driving revenue growth
and enhancing customer experiences. I combine my strong analytical skills with a
deep understanding of market trends to develop and execute impactful marketing
strategies.
• A dynamic and creative [Industry] professional, I specialize in delivering
compelling content that captivates audiences and drives brand visibility. I thrive in
fast-paced environments, leveraging my strategic mindset and storytelling abilities
to create impactful campaigns.
• With a passion for data analysis and a focus on driving business growth, I excel at
transforming complex data sets into actionable insights that inform strategic
decision-making and maximize pro tability.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 6
fi
fl
fl
fi
Example 1: Fun, Personalized Summary
In this example, Sarah incorporates storytelling, humor, quirky interests,
enthusiasm, and an inspirational quote to create a personalized and engaging
LinkedIn summary.

I'm a Marketing Maven with a passion for storytelling and turning data
into digital magic.
I spend my days juggling marketing campaigns like a circus performer,
crafting captivating content that leaves audiences wanting more.
When I'm not weaving marketing spells, you can nd me exploring the
world through culinary adventures or playing the ukulele.
But let's get down to business. With over 8 years of experience in
brand strategy and digital marketing, I've helped numerous clients
increase their online presence and drive revenue growth. From
launching engaging social media campaigns that go viral to designing
eye-catching websites that turn heads, I'm all about creating a
memorable brand experience.
What sets me apart? My secret ingredient is a mix of creativity,
strategic thinking, and a sprinkle of humor. I rmly believe that
marketing should be both impactful and enjoyable. So, let's ditch the
dull and embrace the delightful!
I live by what Oscar Wilde once said: ’Be yourself, everyone else is
already taken.'
My goal? To collaborate with forward-thinking brands that are ready to
make a splash in the digital world. If you're looking to take your
marketing efforts to new heights and inject a dose of personality into
your brand, let's connect to see how our rm can support you.
Together, we'll create marketing magic that leaves a lasting
impression.

Key achievements:
• Successfully led a cross-functional team in implementing a new
marketing campaign that resulted in a 20% increase in lead generation
and a 15% boost in sales revenue.
• Developed and executed a comprehensive social media strategy
that grew the company's online following by 50% within six months.
• Received the "Employee of the Year" award for exceptional
performance and dedication to exceeding targets, as recognized by
the management team.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 7
fl
fi
fi
fi
 Example 2: Fun, Personalized Summary
This example for a Software Developer incorporates elements such as coding
metaphors, interests, collaboration, enthusiasm, and an inspirational quote to
create a personalized and engaging LinkedIn summary.

I’m a code enthusiast with a passion for building digital wonders. I'm
that wizard behind the screen who loves turning complex problems
into elegant solutions. When I'm not in front of my keyboard, you
might nd me exploring the latest tech gadgets or getting lost in the
world of science ction novels.

Let's dive into my digital realm! With over 5 years of experience in

software development, I've helped transform ideas into reality by
crafting robust applications and intuitive user experiences. From
creating seamless mobile apps that simplify everyday life to optimizing
complex algorithms that make systems run like clockwork, I thrive on
the thrill of turning lines of code into magic.

What sets me apart? My insatiable curiosity and love for collaboration.

I believe that the best solutions are born from teamwork and diverse
perspectives. I'm always eager to learn, experiment with new
technologies, and embrace the challenges that come with pushing the
boundaries of what's possible.

I'm on a mission to create impactful software that makes a difference.

Whether it's enhancing user experiences, improving ef ciency, or
solving complex problems, I'm here to make an impact through clean
and elegant code.

Whether you're a fellow developer, a tech-savvy entrepreneur, or

someone passionate about innovation, I'm ready to collaborate and
create something extraordinary.

Remember, as Steve Jobs famously said, 'Stay hungry, stay foolish.' So,
let's code with passion and embrace the endless possibilities of the
digital world. Connect with me and we can keep the conversation
going.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 8
fi
fi
fl
fi
 Example 3: More professional approach
The tone of this summary for a Financial Analyst is more formal, re ecting the
nature of the nancial industry, while still adding a personal touch through
sharing hobbies and values.

I’m a detail-oriented Financial Analyst with a passion for numbers and

a drive for precision. With a strong background in nancial analysis
and data interpretation, I thrive on unraveling complex nancial
puzzles and providing valuable insights to drive informed decision-
making.

Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse clients across

various industries. I have helped them navigate nancial challenges
and optimize their nancial performance. From conducting in-depth
nancial modeling to providing comprehensive risk assessments, my
goal is to deliver accurate and actionable nancial analyses that
support strategic business goals.

Beyond the numbers, I am a rm believer in building meaningful

relationships and fostering trust – and yes, I can also make an
exceptional cup of coffee that even the toughest nancial equations
can't resist! I enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams and
stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of business
objectives and develop tailored nancial solutions.

Outside of work, you can nd me exploring new hiking trails, fueling

my passion for photography, or volunteering in my local community.
In fact, if you spot someone capturing breathtaking landscapes while
simultaneously organizing a charity run, chances are it's me
embracing life's adventures with a camera in one hand and a giving
spirit in the other!

My dedication to continuous learning and growth has led me to

pursue advanced certi cations in nancial analysis. This helps me
stay up-to-date with industry best practices. I am always eager to
embrace new challenges and leverage my skills to contribute to the
success of organizations.

Don't hesitate to reach out if I can support you in any way.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 9
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fl
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Link
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin
4. Experience Linkedin Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
EXPERIENCE SECTION
In the Experience section of your LinkedIn pro le, it's essential to provide a
detailed account of your work experience to showcase your professional
journey and accomplishments. Here's a framework to help you effectively
structure this section:

• Job Title and Company: Begin by listing your job title, the company or
organization you worked for, and the duration of your employment.
• Concise Role Description: Provide a brief description of your
responsibilities, highlighting the key aspects of your role and the areas you
focused on. Focus on the most important and impactful aspects of your
position to grab the reader's attention.
• Key Achievements: Use bullet points to highlight your key achievements
and successes in each role. Where possible, quantify your accomplishments
using numbers, percentages, or speci c metrics. This adds credibility to
your achievements and provides tangible evidence of your impact.
• Relevant Skills: Mention any speci c skills or competencies that were
crucial to your role or that you developed during your time in that position.
This helps to showcase your expertise and highlights the value you can
bring to prospective employers or clients.

Here's an example of how you could structure the Experience section:

Job Title | Company Name | Duration

• Concise description of role responsibilities and focus areas.
• Key Achievements:
- Led a cross-functional team in successfully launching a new product,
resulting in a 30% increase in sales within the rst quarter.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 10
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
 - Implemented process improvements that reduced operational costs
by 20% while improving ef ciency and quality control.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive marketing campaign that
resulted in a 50% increase in website traf c and a 25% growth in
customer acquisitions.
• Relevant Skills: Project Management, Team Leadership, Process
Optimization.

Remember to tailor the details to each speci c role and emphasize the
accomplishments that are most relevant and impactful. Focus on providing a
concise yet informative overview of your work experience, highlighting the
value you brought to each position.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 11
fl
fi
fi
fi
 Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Link
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
5. Skills & Endorsements Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
ELEVATE YOUR POSITIONING VIA SKILLS &
ENDORSEMENTS
In the Skills and Endorsements section of your LinkedIn pro le, it's crucial to list
the relevant skills that highlight your areas of expertise. Here's how you can
expand and optimize this section:

• List Key Skills: Start by listing the key skills that are relevant to your
professional background and the industry you work in. Include both
technical and soft skills that showcase your capabilities and strengths. Be
speci c and concise, using industry-standard terminology to ensure clarity.
• Highlight Pro ciency: Indicate your level of pro ciency for each skill, such
as "Beginner," "Intermediate," "Advanced," or "Expert." This helps others
gauge your skill level and understand your areas of expertise.
• Seek Endorsements: Actively seek endorsements from colleagues,
supervisors, or clients who can vouch for your skills. Endorsements
strengthen your credibility and showcase the validation of your expertise.
Reach out to individuals you have worked closely with and kindly request
their endorsement, highlighting the speci c skills you would appreciate
their support in endorsing.
• Reorder Skills: LinkedIn allows you to reorder your skills based on their
importance and relevance. Prioritize the skills that align with your current
career goals or the areas you want to highlight to prospective employers or
clients.
• Add New Skills: Regularly update your skills to re ect your evolving
expertise and stay relevant in your eld. As you acquire new skills or gain
pro ciency in different areas, add them to your pro le to showcase your
continuous growth and adaptability.

Remember, the Skills and Endorsements section plays a crucial role in

conveying your expertise and attracting the attention of potential employers or

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 12
fi
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
 Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Link
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin
6. Education & Certi cation Linked
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
clients. Be sure to regularly review and update this section to ensure it
accurately represents your skillset and aligns with your professional goals.

INCREASE CREDIBILITY WITH EDUCATION &

CERTIFICATION
In the Education and Certi cations section of your LinkedIn pro le, it's
important to provide details about your educational background, degrees,
certi cations, and professional development. Here's how you can expand on
this section:

Education:
• Include information about your academic achievements, such as degrees,
diplomas, or certi cations earned. Mention the name of the educational
institution, the program of study, and the duration of your enrollment.
• Highlight any academic honors, scholarships, or awards you received
during your studies.
• If relevant, provide a brief description of your thesis or major research
projects, emphasizing the skills and knowledge you gained.

Certi cations and Professional Development:

• List any certi cations, licenses, or specialized training programs you have
completed that are relevant to your eld. Include the certi cation title, the
issuing organization, and the date of completion.
• Provide a brief overview of the skills or knowledge acquired through these
certi cations and how they contribute to your professional expertise.
• If you have completed any professional development courses or
workshops, mention them and highlight the key takeaways or skills you
gained.

Projects and Publications:

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 13
fi
fi
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
• Highlight any signi cant projects, publications, or presentations you have
contributed to. Include a brief description of each project, emphasizing
your role and responsibilities.
• If applicable, provide links to articles, reports, or presentations to offer a
more in-depth view of your work.
• Showcase any industry-related publications, such as articles in reputable
journals or contributions to industry-speci c blogs or magazines.

Remember, the Education and Certi cations section demonstrates your

commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Use this
space to showcase your academic achievements, certi cations, and any
notable projects or publications you have been involved in. This section
provides additional credibility and depth to your pro le, reinforcing your
expertise and dedication to your eld.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 14
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Link
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin
7. Recommendations Linkedin Linke
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
LEVERAGE SOCIAL PROOF THROUGH
RECOMMENDATIONS
In the Recommendations section of your LinkedIn pro le, you have the
opportunity to showcase testimonials from colleagues, supervisors, or clients
who can vouch for your professional abilities and work ethic. Here's how you
can expand on this section:

Requesting Recommendations:

1. Identify Appropriate Contacts: Consider individuals who have worked

closely with you and can provide meaningful insights into your skills and
character. This can include former colleagues, supervisors, clients, or
business partners.
2. Personalize Your Request: Craft a personalized message when requesting
recommendations. Remind the person of the projects or interactions you
had together and express your gratitude for their willingness to provide a
recommendation.
3. Highlight Speci c Areas: To ensure well-rounded recommendations,
suggest speci c aspects you would like the person to touch upon. This
could include your problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, teamwork,
attention to detail, or any other areas that align with your professional goals.
4. Follow Up and Express Gratitude: Once you receive a recommendation,
take the time to express your gratitude. Send a personalized thank-you
message and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Showcasing Diverse Recommendations:

1. Seek a Range of Perspectives: Aim for recommendations from individuals

with different professional backgrounds and perspectives. This can provide
a comprehensive view of your skills and character.
© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 15
fi
fi
fl
fi
 2. Diverse Roles and Relationships: Request recommendations from
colleagues, supervisors, clients, and other professional connections who
have worked with you in various capacities. This can include project
partners, team members, mentors, or industry peers.
3. Cover Various Aspects: Encourage recommenders to touch upon different
aspects of your professional abilities, such as your leadership skills,
problem-solving capabilities, collaboration, adaptability, or client
relationship management. This ensures a well-rounded and comprehensive
representation of your strengths.

By actively seeking diverse and meaningful recommendations, you

demonstrate your commitment to building strong professional relationships
and provide prospective employers or clients with valuable insights into your
skills and work ethic. Remember to approach the recommendations process
with professionalism, gratitude, and reciprocity, and maintain an ongoing
commitment to building and nurturing professional connections.

How to request a Recommendation on LinkedIn:

Before you request a recommendation, ask the person whether they would be
comfortable doing so. I've shared two examples of how to make the request
below. If they say "yes', then follow the below steps in LinkedIn.

1. Go to the pro le of the connection from whom you want to request a

recommendation.
2. Click on the "More" button (represented by three dots) located next to the
"Message" button on their pro le.
3. In the dropdown menu, select "Request a recommendation."
4. A recommendation request pop-up window will appear. Choose the type of
position you worked with the person on from the drop-down menu.
5. Customize your message by clicking on the pen icon next to the text box.
Personalize your request and explain why you value their recommendation.
6. Once you are satis ed with your message, click the "Send" button.
7. The person will receive a noti cation of your recommendation request.
They can then choose to write and submit their recommendation directly on
your LinkedIn pro le.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 16
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
 Examples of how to request recommendation on LinkedIn.

Formal Request for Recommendation:

Dear [Contact's Name],

I hope this message nds you well. I wanted to reach out and express
my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to work alongside you at
[Company]. Your guidance and expertise have been invaluable
throughout our collaboration.

I would be grateful if you could spare a few moments to provide a

recommendation based on our professional experiences together. Your
perspective on my work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and
contributions would greatly enhance my professional pro le.

Please feel free to share your thoughts on our collaboration, speci c

projects we worked on, or any notable achievements you believe
showcase my strengths. I value your honest feedback, and I am
con dent that your recommendation would provide valuable insight
into my skills and character.

Thank you in advance for your time and support. I truly value our
professional relationship, and I look forward to staying connected.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 17
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
 Informal Request for Recommendation:
Hey [Contact's Name],

I hope you're doing well! I wanted to drop you a quick note to express
my appreciation for the amazing time we've spent working together at
[Company]. Your guidance, support, and friendship have made such a
positive impact on both my professional growth and overall experience.

I was wondering if you could do me a small favor. I'm in the process of

enhancing my professional pro le on LinkedIn, and I would be deeply
grateful if you could spare a few moments to provide a
recommendation based on our collaborative journey. Your insights into
my work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and contributions would be
immensely valuable in showcasing my strengths.

If you have any speci c projects or moments that you feel exemplify my
skills and character, I would love to hear about them. Your unique
perspective would add so much depth and authenticity to my pro le,
and I truly value your honest feedback.

Thank you so much for considering this request. I genuinely cherish our
professional relationship, and I'm excited to see how our paths continue
to intersect in the future. Looking forward to staying connected and
sharing more incredible experiences together!

Warmest regards,

[Your Name]

Remember to personalize the request based on your relationship with the

individual and provide speci c guidance on areas you would appreciate them
highlighting. This helps ensure that the recommendation aligns with your
professional goals and showcases your unique strengths.
Once they leave a recommendation, express your gratitude for their time and
effort. You might also like to leave one for them too.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 18
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
 Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Link
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi
Linkedin Linkedin
8. Engagement Linkedin Linke
Linkedin Linkedin Linkedin Linkedi

ENGAGEMENT AND NETWORKING

Actively engaging on LinkedIn is essential to build a strong professional
network, increase visibility, and establish yourself as an industry expert.

Here are some examples of how you can engage on LinkedIn:

• Share Relevant Content: Regularly share valuable and relevant content,

such as articles, blog posts, industry news, or thought leadership pieces.
Add your insights and commentary to provide value to your network and
initiate conversations around the topics that matter to your industry.
• Comment on Posts: Engage with others' posts by leaving thoughtful
comments and sharing your perspectives. This demonstrates your
knowledge, expertise, and willingness to contribute to the conversation.
Engaging in meaningful discussions helps you establish connections and
build relationships with like-minded professionals.
• Participate in Industry Groups: Join relevant industry-speci c groups and
actively participate in discussions. Share insights, ask questions, and
contribute valuable information. By actively engaging in groups, you can
expand your network, gain exposure, and connect with professionals who
share similar interests.
• Network with Professionals: Actively network with professionals in your
eld by sending connection requests to individuals you nd interesting or
admire. Personalize your connection requests by mentioning a common
interest or explaining why you would like to connect. This personalized
approach demonstrates genuine interest and increases the likelihood of a
positive response.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 19
fi
fl
fi
fi
Now, here's an example of a personalized note you could include when
sending a connection request:

PERSONALIZED CONNECTION REQUEST:

EXAMPLE 1: Connecting with a Colleague

Hi [Colleague's Name], It's been a pleasure working alongside you at

[Company]. I admire your professionalism and expertise in [speci c
area]. Let's connect and stay in touch to continue collaborating and
supporting each other's growth. [Your Name]

EXAMPLE 2: Someone you come across on LinkedIn

Hi [Contact's Name], I'm inspired by your expertise in [Industry/Field].

Given our common interest in [speci c interest or industry focus], I'm
excited about the potential to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects,
and explore mutual growth opportunities. If you're open to connecting,
I'd be honored to have you in my network. [Your Name]

EXAMPLE 3: Speaker at an event

Hi [Speaker's Name], I recently heard your inspiring talk at [Event

Name]. Your insights about [speci c insight] resonated with me given
my interest in [speci c interest or industry], and I'd love to connect and
continue the conversation. [Your Name]

EXAMPLE 4: Leader at your company (who you don't know)

Hi [Leader's Name], I've been impressed by your leadership and the

positive impact you've made at [Company]. I really enjoyed
contributing to [Project] which you oversaw. I would be delighted to
connect with you and learn from your valuable insights. [Your Name]

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 20
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
 The Power of LinkedIn
By following this LinkedIn Pro le Optimization Checklist, you can
signi cantly elevate your professional presence and maximize the
bene ts of the platform. Optimizing your LinkedIn pro le goes beyond
merely completing the required elds; it involves strategic
enhancements that can enhance your visibility, attract relevant
connections, and effectively showcase your unique professional brand.

When you optimize your LinkedIn pro le, you open the doors to
expanded networking opportunities. With over 750 million professionals
on the platform, your optimized pro le allows you to connect with like-
minded individuals, potential employers, clients, and industry
in uencers. It provides you with a digital space to engage in meaningful
conversations, share insights, and establish yourself as a valuable
resource in your industry.

Furthermore, an optimized pro le strengthens your online presence.

When someone searches for your name or relevant keywords in your
industry, a well-optimized pro le increases your chances of appearing at
the top of search results. This visibility can lead to more opportunities for
career advancement, collaborations, speaking engagements, and even
potential job offers.

Your LinkedIn pro le serves as a powerful tool to position yourself as a

thought leader and expert in your eld. By leveraging the checklist's
recommendations, you can effectively showcase your skills, experiences,
and achievements in a compelling manner. This not only attracts
attention but also helps you build credibility and establish yourself as a
trusted authority in your industry.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 21
fl
fi
fi
fl
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
fi
 Remember, LinkedIn is not just a digital resume; it
is an active platform for professional networking
and personal branding. By following this LinkedIn
Pro le Optimization Checklist, you can unlock the
full potential of the platform, harness its
networking power, and position yourself for success
in the professional world.

ABOUT SHADÉ:
Shadé Zahrai is an award-winning leadership
strategist and peak performance educator to
Fortune 500s. Through her courses, keynotes
and popular professional development
content, Shadé’s action-focussed and
research-based approach supports people to
build a life and career they love.

© 2023 Shadé Zahrai & In uenceo Global LLC. All rights reserved. 22
fi
fl