5 Practical Steps to Build a Strong Personal Brand on LinkedIn
If you’re not leveraging LinkedIn to build your personal brand, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful career tools available. Whether you’re job hunting, pivoting industries, or looking to grow your network, a strong LinkedIn profile makes a lasting impression.
Here’s how to stand out and show up professionally:
1. Start with a Strong First Impression: Your Photo
Your profile photo is often the first thing people see—it’s your digital handshake. Choose a high-quality, professional headshot with a clean background. Aim for a look that’s approachable but polished and aligns with your target industry.
Bonus tip: Add a custom background image using royalty-free sites like Unsplash or Pexels to give your profile a more polished, branded feel.
2. Craft a Compelling Headline
Your headline isn’t just your job title—it’s your chance to tell people who you are and what you’re about. Use clear, searchable keywords and speak directly to your desired role. Separate multiple roles with a vertical bar “|” (e.g., Project Manager | Logistics Coordinator).
Avoid vague or military-specific terms like “retiring” or “senior leader”—instead, focus on industry-relevant job titles and keywords that recruiters are actually searching for.
3. Tell Your Story in the About Section
The “About” section is where your personality and value proposition shine. Think of it as a mini-cover letter: highlight your strengths, your experience, and—most importantly—how you add value.
Use real job descriptions from your industry to sprinkle in relevant keywords, and be sure to translate any military terminology into civilian language. Remember: results speak louder than duties. Share how you made an impact, not just what you did.
4. Showcase Your Experience and Skills
Just like a resume, your experience section should highlight the last 10 years of your professional journey:
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Add context and quantify your achievements with metrics whenever possible.
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Use civilian job titles and explain your military experience in a way that non-military professionals can understand.
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Align your listed skills with the job descriptions you’re targeting—this boosts your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.
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Connect those skills to your actual job experiences so your profile tells a cohesive, results-driven story.
5. Engage and Expand Your Network
Once your profile is looking sharp, it’s time to engage. Follow professionals in your field, join industry-specific groups, and start commenting on posts that resonate with you. Don’t worry about creating your own content right away—thoughtful comments can lead to meaningful conversations and connections.
Also, take advantage of endorsements and recommendations. Shout out your colleagues and mentors—many will gladly return the favor, adding social proof to your skill set.
Want to dive deeper? Check out these helpful resources:
Written by Anthony Wagner