What Should I Put as My Headline on LinkedIn?

Your LinkedIn headline is like a virtual slogan - it's one of the first things people see when they land on your profile. So, what do you want it to say? Think of it as a chance to make a great first impression and tell people what you're all about.

Crafting a killer first impression

Your LinkedIn headline is essentially a personal elevator pitch that tells others who you are and why they should care. It's the first thing people see when they land on your profile, so it's gotta be good. Think of it as a digital handshake that sets the tone for your online presence.

To make a lasting impression, keep your headline concise, clear, and specific. Instead of using generic terms like "Entrepreneur" or "Business Owner", try "E-commerce Expert" or "Digital Marketing Strategist". This will help you stand out and showcase your unique value proposition.

What makes a good LinkedIn headline?

A good LinkedIn headline should swiftly convey who you are, what you do, and what sets you apart from the rest. To grab attention and start meaningful conversations, aim for a headline that is:

• Clear and concise - no one wants to decipher a cryptic message.
• Keyword-rich - use terms that resonate with your industry and expertise, so the right people can find you.
• Unique and valuable - highlight your professional strengths and goals, showcasing what makes you stand out.

Examples of effective LinkedIn headlines

Let's take a look at some examples of LinkedIn headlines that really work:

• Chris's headline "I'm a revenue growth expert who builds strong relationships with my clients."
• Nicole's headline "I'm a thought leader with achievements to back it up."
• Marin's headline brands him as a "Professional Troubleshooter" who gets the job done on time and within budget – no fuss, no muss.
• Justin's headline combines his personal mission with his professional titles, making him stand out as a dedicated and forward-thinking leader.

What do these effective headlines have in common? They all convey value and results, giving potential clients and collaborators a clear idea of what they can expect from working with these individuals.

Common mistakes to avoid

When crafting your LinkedIn headline, it's just as important to know what not to do as it is to know what to do. A poorly written headline can be a major turnoff, making it harder to attract potential clients and connections. So, what are some common mistakes to steer clear of?

• Avoid generic terms like "Hard worker" or "Team player" – they don't add any real value to your profile.
• Leave out your current job status or the fact that you're "Open to opportunities" – it's not relevant to your professional brand.
• Steer clear of clichés like "Guru/ninja/rockstar" and overly used phrases like "Motivated self-starter" – they're tired and unoriginal.
• Keep personal information and unrelated hobbies out of your headline – they're not what people are looking for when they search for someone with your skills.

By sidestepping these common mistakes, you can create a headline that showcases your unique strengths and expertise, helping you stand out in a crowded LinkedIn landscape.

Crafting your unique value proposition

Your LinkedIn headline is the perfect opportunity to showcase what sets you apart from the competition. Think of it as a brief elevator pitch that highlights your unique value proposition (UVP). This is what makes you different and valuable to your target audience.

To craft a compelling headline, identify what makes you unique and use that to craft a headline that resonates with your target audience. Use keywords that recruiters and potential clients are searching for to increase your visibility and attract more profile views. By striking a balance between optimization and creativity, you'll increase your chances of getting noticed by the right people.