This document provides guidance on optimizing a LinkedIn profile. It lists essential elements like a photo, headline, work experience and education that should be included. Optional elements like groups, skills and recommendations are also noted. The document recommends engaging on LinkedIn by posting as a subject matter expert, adding relevant videos or presentations. It also provides tips for connecting with others and templates for connection invitations and informational interview requests.

1.
Nerdy Girl Career Coach
LinkedIn Help Guide
@NerdyCoachKaren
www.linkedin.com/in/karenchontofalsky/

2. Nerdy Girl Career Coach LinkedIn Help Guide
Checklist
Must­have:
Photo/Headline/Contact Information
Summary
Work Experience
Education/Training
Make Connections
● Co­workers
● Alumni
● Newly met connections (IRL)!
Nice­to­have:
Groups
Awards
Skills/Endorsements/Recommendations
Organizations
All­Star:
Posts ­ be a SME
Videos/Presentations
Extras that are relevant in your field:
Volunteer Info/Projects/Patents/Languages
@NerdyCoachKaren
www.linkedin.com/in/karenchontofalsky/

3. Recommended Reading ­ LinkedIn
Summaries:
http://www.linkedinsights.com/3­stunningly­good­linkedin­profile­summaries/
http://www.careercast.com/career­news/5­essential­tips­killer­linkedin­summary
LinkedIn Groups:
http://www.job­hunt.org/IT­job­search/linkedin­groups­benefits.shtml
Connecting Strategies:
http://www.brianhonigman.com/expert­linkedin­marketing­tips/
http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/successful­linkedin­networking/
http://www.linkedinsights.com/a­stunningly­good­linkedin­introduction/
Profile Picture:
http://talent.linkedin.com/blog/index.php/2014/12/5­tips­for­picking­the­right­linkedin­profile­picture
Connection Quick Reminders
1. Customize your invitation to connect. Tell them why you are connecting (one sentence).
2. Offer value. Send links to articles, books, events that might be relevant ­ or offer specific assistance
(i.e. introduce a connection, be a reference, give your time).
3. Groups are gold. If you are having a hard time making a connection, remember to reach out through
your groups!
Informational Interview Request Template:
Establish/emphasize your connection before making your request. Examples:
a. We met at XYZ last week.
b. We both belong to the ABC University Alumni Group (Go Mascot Name!).
c. We both know XYZ and he/she said I should contact you.
Hello name,
We both know XYZ and he/she said I should contact you. I’m reaching out to see if I could speak to you
about your experience working for Amazing Company, Inc. I am (interviewing/applying/interesting in
working) there and would be interested in your insights. Do you have time to schedule a short phone call
(about 10­15 minutes)?
Thank you,
Karen
@NerdyCoachKaren
www.linkedin.com/in/karenchontofalsky/