LinkedIn is a great platform to showcase accomplishments, engage with employees and network with other higher–education professionals. Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Social Media manager, Jessica Slattery, says there are plenty of benefits to keeping your LinkedIn profile updated, mainly because it helps professionals stay visible and connected.
“LinkedIn is a powerful networking platform, and maintaining an updated profile maximizes its benefits,” Slattery said. “For instance, updating your job title and workplace prompts LinkedIn’s algorithm to prioritize relevant content from your industry and workplace, enhancing your networking effectiveness.”
Use these five tips, developed by Slattery, for refreshing and optimizing your LinkedIn account as an employee of MSU Denver:
1. Add a professional profile photo and background image.
- Profile photo: Use a high-quality headshot with a neutral background, and dress in professional attire.
- If you need a professional headshot, look out for upcoming dates when employees can receive a free headshot from photographers in University Communications and Marketing.
- Background image: Incorporate a visually appealing image related to MSU Denver, such as a campus photo, to strengthen your professional brand.
- Tip: If you need an MSU Denver photo, grab one from MSU Denver’s PhotoShelter account.
2. Write compelling headlines.
- Be clear and descriptive: Craft a headline that clearly states your current role and field of expertise. For example, “Assistant Professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver | Expert in (your field).”
3. Add an engaging summary to the “about” section.
- Highlight key achievements: Outline your professional background, key skills, accomplishments and role at MSU Denver. Focus on notable projects, research and contributions to the University.
Slattery says consistently posting content such as research, articles and awards on LinkedIn boosts visibility in Google searches.
“Regularly sharing accolades and achievements will distinguish employees as authoritative figures in their respective fields,” she says. “For instance, if you’re a Finance professor who regularly shares your work, you’ll rank higher on Google than less active peers, solidifying your status as a subject-matter expert.”
4. Provide a detailed “experience” section.
- Emphasize your achievements: Provide detailed descriptions of your roles, responsibilities and accomplishments at MSU Denver. Highlight your impact and any significant projects or initiatives.
- Add multimedia: Include relevant presentations, videos or publications to showcase your work.
5. Network and engage with University content and other employees.
- Connect: Network with other MSU Denver employees, alumni and professionals in your field.
- Engage with content: Actively like, comment on and share content related to your field and MSU Denver. Participate in LinkedIn groups related to higher education and your area of expertise.
Slattery says that when employees engage with MSU Denver content, showcasing the University as a vibrant and engaged academic institution, MSU Denver benefits by attracting prospective employees, students and partnerships. It’s also a great way to keep track of professional contacts.
“Employees engaging on LinkedIn can greatly benefit MSU Denver,” Slattery said. “By actively interacting with colleagues, peers and University content on LinkedIn, employees help amplify the University’s visibility and reputation.
“LinkedIn also serves as a centralized hub for all your professional contacts. Whether you’ve met someone at a conference or elsewhere, connecting on LinkedIn facilitates ongoing communication and provides context about your connection, unlike randomly adding a contact to your phone.”
