How to write an modular LinkedIn profile in just 4 paragraphs

Let’s be honest. How many times are you going to write or rewrite a LinkedIn profile? Once (when you first join)? Twice (when you look for another job)? Maybe tinker with it now and again when bored?

Anyway, I find it useful to have a LinkedIn template as a ready-reckoner, either for when I’m writing profiles for clients  or for my own (infrequent!) profile updates.

Also, the benefit of this modular approach is that your can copy and paste sections over to other social media outlets (e.g. your Elevator Pitch) and you know which paragraphs to change when necessary (e.g. when you’ve won an award or passed an exam).

Other than that, you shouldn’t need to tinker with it too much!

Key Points to remember

• Tell a story
• Break it up with headings & sub-headings
• Make it easy for people to contact you

Profile for non-secret job searches

If you don’t have to keep your search secret, it’s important to make clear that you’re looking for a job, and to provide clear contact information. Here’s my profile formula:

Opening paragraph: Overview snapshot – your ‘elevator’ pitch

• Describe the work you do and the level you do it at (executive, manager, professional, etc.)
• Include any special expertise (industry specialization, skills, top companies worked for, etc.).
• Include years’ of experience, but don’t go over 15 (if it’s more, say 15+).
• For example:

I’m a marketing manager with 10 years of experience in both web and traditional advertising, promotions, events, and campaigns. I have worked on integrated campaigns for major clients such as Barclays, Bank of America, and the LSE, specialising in financial services products.

2nd paragraph: Work detail – prioritise facts over accomplishments

• Describe what you do currently (or what you did most recently if you’re looking for a job – more likely!)
• Briefly outline a few impressive accomplishments
• Give a concise overview of earlier experience
• Be sure to include any awards
• For example:

Until recently, I headed up the marketing function for XYZ, a digital agency based in London focused on insurance and banking industries. In this role I was focused on B2C marketing, although I have done extensive B2B work in the past. Notable successes included creating a social media and online advertising campaign that generated enormous media attention and was key to the successful launch of the zzz product in 2016. I have been recognized with several awards during my career, most recently for the XXX agency campaign with YYY.

3rd paragraph: Detail about yourself at work – convey your passion

• Describe your personal work style
• Important character traits.

I am known as a highly creative marketer with a particular skill and passion for coming up with new approaches to marketing traditional products and services. However, I recognise that the client’s business must always come first, and never try to unduly impose my vision. I spend a lot of time first understanding both the business and the target audience before suggesting any ideas. I can (and often do) work well alone, but I feel I’m at my most creative when collaborating with others.

4th paragraph: Detail about yourself in general

• Summarize your education – you’ll generally only need degree level
• Professional qualifications – expand as required for the job you’re looking for
• Any other important work-related qualifications – again, keep it relevant

I have an BSc degree from ZZZ University and am a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing ‘CIM’. In 2014, I gained my Diploma in Professional Marketing.  

Contact details:

• Explain that you’re exploring new opportunities
• Provide your phone number & e-mail address (if you have decided to include them).

I’m currently freelancing while I pursue new opportunities and can be reached either through this profile or by phone at xxxx.