The LinkedIn summary, also known as the “About” section, is a few paragraphs of text that appear just before a LinkedIn user’s list of current and past roles. LinkedIn allows up to 2,000 words, but only the first three lines are visible before a visitor has to click “See More.”
This section is crucial for appearing more in LinkedIn searches and making the impression you want on people. We know that many users find filling out this section challenging, but with a few small tips, it can become much easier. Let’s take a look at these tips together:
Start with a Strong Opening Sentence
The purpose of the first sentence of your LinkedIn summary is to keep your audience reading. Therefore, it is important to grab their attention early and keep them interested. Use a unique sentence to describe something about yourself or create curiosity.
Explain Why You Do What You Do
People connect more with stories and values than with a direct description of “what” you do. While the “what” is important, don’t forget to include the “why.” Explain what drew you to your profession and what your mission is in your role. This will make your LinkedIn profile resonate more emotionally.
Discuss Your Industry Expertise
Now it’s time to reinforce your mission with your industry expertise. Describe your background and qualifications in two to three sentences. For instance, if you are a sales representative using LinkedIn to connect with potential clients, your summary should highlight your industry expertise and your interest in helping people achieve results.
Mention Your Skills and Areas of Focus
After highlighting your expertise, tell us what you are focusing on in one or two sentences. For example, if you are a digital marketer, do you focus on SEO or social media? If you recently graduated, did you study something specific to your field?
Highlight Your Professional Interests
Next, it’s time to emphasize your professional interests. How do you help others? What’s your purpose in doing this? Unlike skills, these interests do not necessarily require measurable data or evidence. Show your determination to pursue them and ensure you appear passionate about them.
Tip: Break Your Text into Paragraphs
If your summary is lengthy, try breaking it into shorter paragraphs to make it easier to read. When viewing a profile initially, many people skim for high-level context. Long paragraphs can cause some of your key points to get lost. Try to keep paragraphs to two or three sentences to make your summary more readable and digestible.
