Is your LinkedIn profile blending in, with nothing clearly articulating your expertise or thought leadership?
The right makeover can take you from simply existing to truly inspiring your network. After all, why settle for mere visibility when you can establish real authority?
This LinkedIn makeover guide will show you how to build a profile that:
- Introduces the expert you are
- Attracts the connections, opportunities, and influence you deserve
Why Your LinkedIn Profile Matters More Than Ever
With over 1 billion members, LinkedIn is the platform for thought leadership. Now, more than ever, a strategic LinkedIn profile is essential for turning your visibility into influence because:
- First impressions are digital: Potential connections or prospects will likely check your LinkedIn profile before reaching out. They’ll look up your expertise and credibility.
- Thought leaders are vocal and provide value: LinkedIn is the platform where you can do both, sharing insights, expertise, and bold opinions.
- Business opportunities start here: An optimized profile with solid connections and regular engagement gets you seen by decision-makers.
- The algorithm wants you active: LinkedIn rewards actively engaging profiles that share valuable content. At 500+ connections, more professionals in your network will start seeing your content.
Research by Edelman and LinkedIn shows that professionals position themselves as industry leaders on the platform to:
- Increase positive sentiment among potential customers (55%)
- Persuade leads to reach out for more information (48%)
- Compel prospects to consider their services (40%)
Ready to freshen up your LinkedIn profile and make yourself noticed? Our savvy senior-level marketers at Crackerjack Marketing can help you create a professional and impactful profile.
Let’s connect and start your LinkedIn profile makeover. We’ll use a blend of strategy, personal branding, and corporate alignment to:
- Make your personal brand shine
- Boost your employer branding
Key Components of a LinkedIn Profile
Every single section of your LinkedIn profile should pull people in deeper, like a funnel that:
- Offers a preview of what you have to offer
- Grabs attention and teases your best work
- Makes your audience hit follow
Here’s how each of your profile’s key components helps.
LinkedIn Banner
This image at the top of the page sets the stage. It’s the first thing someone sees on your profile. Use it to tell who you are or what you offer before they read a word.
LinkedIn Profile Picture
Based on your picture, people decide whether to trust you in seconds (hello, halo effect). Upload a professional, approachable headshot to nail the first impression.
LinkedIn Headline
The headline is the first thing people see after your face. It expands on what you do and the value you provide. So, it can either hook them or have them scroll past.
LinkedIn About Section
People read this to figure out if you’re worth following. Convince them by sharing your “why,” what you’re passionate about, and what you bring to the table.
LinkedIn Experience Section
Traditionally, your CV would go here. It’s the place to lay bare your credibility in a way that tells people, “I’ve been there and done that.”
LinkedIn Featured Section
This section spotlights your best work so visitors get a snapshot of your expertise. It’s the best place to slide a call to action or share your website or landing page.
LinkedIn Recommendations
Peer reviews carry weight. People trust them more than self-promotion. Put your social proof here, inviting others to back up what you’ve said about yourself.
LinkedIn Content Strategy
This platform is both a social network and a search engine. You must consistently post insightful content to stand out. And you can only do that with a strategy.
LinkedIn Audience Network
On LinkedIn, your network really is your net worth. To make it powerful, don’t just connect without aim. Build relationships with those who best support your goals.
Strategic Approach to LinkedIn Makeover
You need more than a few profile tweaks to transform your LinkedIn presence. Discover the impactful strategy that helps you turn visitors into active connections.
How to Write a LinkedIn Headline
Your headline must be a 220-character power statement. Say what you do and who you help using clear, bold language that shows confidence in your expertise.
If you’re struggling, try this formula:
I help/coach/teach/train/work with [target audience] [solve pain point] [how].
LinkedIn Headline Examples
The two examples below show you how to establish authority and capture attention in your headline.
What we like about Ramit Sethi’s headline:
- Leads with authority and promises value
- It’s specific and appeals directly to his audience’s desire
What we like about Madeline Mann’s headline:
- Engaging and energetic style
- Blends credibility with creativity
- Makes the most of the 220 characters
What is a Good LinkedIn Profile Picture and Banner?
Your headshot should provide a sharp first impression of professionalism and build trust. Anything with the “stock photo” or “blurry selfie” vibe is a big no.
You want it to be high-resolution and clean, making you look approachable—like you just closed a deal and are ready for the next one.
LinkedIn Profile Picture Examples
If an image speaks a thousand words, here’s how pros do it through their LinkedIn profile pictures.
What we like about Rand Fishkin’s profile picture:
- Aligns with his brand of thoughtful, friendly, and helpful marketer
- Appears professional but with a friendly demeanor
- Makes him look competent and easy to talk to
What we like about Jennifer Stojkovic’s profile picture:
- Exudes the savvy confidence of a Venture Capitalist
- Projects authority and leadership
- Looks professional and approachable
What Should My LinkedIn Banner Be?
Your banner should help visitors understand:
- Who you are and what you do
- Who do you help, and what problems do you solve
Customize it and align it with your message. If you’re all about tech, make it sleek and minimal. If you’re in marketing, try something dynamic with energy.
LinkedIn Banner Examples
The following thought leaders clearly know how to convey their expertise and prompt visitors to take action.
What we like about David Green’s banner:
- Immediately shows what he specializes in
- Prominently features key visuals that prompt you to take action
- Provides free value that gets you one step closer to becoming a follower
What we like about Serena Huang’s banner:
- Well-structured and engaging
- Positions her as an authority in her field
- Cleverly incorporates her upcoming book
- Tells potential clients where to reach out
How to Write a LinkedIn About Section
With your About section, granularity is key. You want to get deep into what you have achieved and the projects you’ve been involved in. Talk about the problems you’ve solved and how you add value.
But don’t list your resume. Tell your story, real and sharp.
Ensure your About section is easily readable by adding line breaks, bullet points, and plenty of white space between ideas.
LinkedIn About Section Examples
Look at two strong examples of how to communicate your professional impact and personal values.
What we like about Nathan Hirsch’s About section:
- Strong lead that highlights extensive experience and entrepreneurial success
- Clear achievements with measurable results
- Proof of diverse expertise and skills
What we like about Lottie Khan’s About section:
- Balances professionalism with warmth, coming across as approachable
- Clearly outlines her role, areas of expertise, and recruitment interests
- Adds immediate value for readers, with direct links to apply
How to Write LinkedIn Experience Descriptions
Think of this as your highlight reel, full of numbers and percentages. Tell where you’ve been and what you’ve done, but focus on results, not tasks.
Instead of “Responsible for streamlining operations,” say, “I have increased revenue by 30% through streamlining operations.”
LinkedIn Experience Section Examples
Below are two perfect examples of thought leaders showing their achievements and impact instead of job duties.
What we like about Evan Fisher’s Experience section:
- Direct and results-oriented
- Confidently positions him as a leader
- Roles showcase a clear value proposition, proven results, and unique differentiation
What we like about Anna Elwood’s Experience section:
- Highlights her leadership, strategic thinking, and impressive results
- Proves her ability to manage large teams and drive growth
♟️ Your Turn
You’ve seen the examples and why they work, but execution is another game.
Need help shaping your experience into a LinkedIn profile that positions you as a thought leader? Count on our senior marketers!
With years of expertise in data-driven LinkedIn marketing, we’ll help revamp your profile and craft a high-converting content strategy.
Let’s work together to enhance your personal brand and thought leadership.
How to Add Featured and Activity Sections
Missing some profile sections? Click on your photo at the upper right corner and select “View profile.” From there, simply:
- Tap on “Add profile section”;
- Select the “Recommended” field;
- Select the sections you want to add from the menu that will drop;
- Follow the prompts and tap Save when you’re done.
Pro Tip:
Use your Featured and Activity sections to display content that:
- Makes you look like a rockstar in your field
- Offers free value with a CTA to collect emails
You could share articles you’ve written, projects you’ve completed, or case studies. Or invite them to register for a free masterclass or webinar.
How to Get Recommendations on LinkedIn
Ask people who’ve seen your work in action, and don’t hesitate to suggest what they should mention.
The more tailored and detailed their answers, the better. So, instead of vague compliments, aim for specific praise and results sharing, like “increased client satisfaction by 25%.”
RESOURCE:
Customize this template to keep the ask focused and get a stronger recommendation:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently refining my LinkedIn profile and would love to include a recommendation from you, who have seen my work up close. Could you highlight [specific project, result, or skill]?
Your feedback would mean a lot. Feel free to mention anything else you think stood out. Thank you for considering this!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
What to Post on LinkedIn
Lack of consistency is why people fall behind on LinkedIn. But don’t post just for the sake of it.
Keep things fresh by mixing up text, video, and polls. And try to stay on one of these three content paths that fit your role:
- Share insights from your executive experience
- Research emerging trends in your industry
- Interview other thought leaders and report their strategies
How to Network on LinkedIn
Be strategic. Select the most relevant industry peers, potential clients, and thought leaders and engage with their posts—don’t just lurk.
Aside from being a part of the conversations on their profiles, you can:
- Write them a recommendation
- Feature them in your various posts
- Invite them to do an online event together
Pro Tip:
The first hour after posting is crucial for reach and visibility. Message the top performers in your industry and ask when they usually post so you can:
- Show up daily as the first one commenting with something valuable
- Boost their visibility and yours
- Build stronger relationships
(Yes, you can assign this task to your corporate team or whoever is in charge of your LinkedIn growth.)
Feel free to tweak this short networking template:
“Hi, [Name] – I love your content and want to engage daily as soon as you post. What time do you normally post?”
Is it Worth Hiring a Professional for Your LinkedIn Makeover?
Absolutely—if you want to:
- Grow your personal brand as an industry thought leader
- Attract high-level connections and opportunities
- Boost your employer brand in the process
On average, visitors spend under 8 minutes on your profile (if your messaging resonates.) An expert LinkedIn profile consultant helps you:
- Create a lead magnet profile
- Prove you’re worth your audience’s time and attention
At Crackerjack Marketing, we specialize in these makeovers. Want to stand out as a thought leader and make every minute visitors spend on your profile count?
Contact us today! Our team will craft a profile that showcases your value and drives growth—for you and your company.
What to Expect from a LinkedIn Makeover Service
Our LinkedIn makeover service blends strategy, personal branding, and corporate alignment. Here’s what you get with us:
- LinkedIn-centric executive branding: We revamp your profile to align your personal brand with your corporate goals. You’ll come across as authoritative and attract higher-level connections.
- Bold, human-centered approach: You want to look professional and approachable. We nail that balance by combining credibility with personality—confident enough to stand out but genuine enough to build trust.
- Proven, data-driven strategies: We’ve honed our strategies through experience, so our data-backed methods actually work. You get content that converts and delivers measurable impact.
- Senior-level expertise: Our senior experts (no juniors allowed) handle every detail. They ensure your strategy is tight, your profile boasts expertise, and you have a winning content formula.
- Global perspective: With teams in Chicago, Mumbai, and Barcelona, we bring a global outlook to your LinkedIn branding. Your executive profile will resonate and make an impact across diverse markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Need more clarity on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile? Read these FAQ answers:
What Are the Best Ways to Ask for Recommendations?
Reach out to people you’ve worked closely with. Instead of generic requests, specify what you’d like them to highlight. The more tailored your ask, the better the recommendation.
Should I Connect With Everyone on LinkedIn?
No. 500+ connections are critical for your reach, but you should connect with people relevant to your industry or goals. Focus on those who add value to your network or vice versa.
Should I Keep My LinkedIn Profile Public or Private?
A private profile limits visibility, so it’s not an option if you’re serious about building your brand or attracting opportunities. Keep it public to allow recruiters, peers, and even diverse buyer personas to discover you. Just be mindful of what you share, and make sure it’s polished.
How Often Should I Post Content on LinkedIn?
Posting too often without value can dilute your credibility. Then again, consistency is key. So, aim for 2-3 times a week, focusing on valuable insights that position you as an expert.
Conclusion
Your insights, ideas, and expertise deserve to be seen. And LinkedIn can put you under the spotlight. But without the right makeover strategy, your profile might be holding you back.
If you’re ready to take the lead in your industry, Crackerjack Marketing is here to help.
Reach out and inquire about our LinkedIn profile optimization service. We’ll craft a LinkedIn presence that:
- Showcases your value
- Opens doors to high-level connections and opportunities
Is your LinkedIn profile blending in, with nothing clearly articulating your expertise or thought leadership?
The right makeover can take you from simply existing to truly inspiring your network. After all, why settle for mere visibility when you can establish real authority?
This LinkedIn makeover guide will show you how to build a profile that:
- Introduces the expert you are
- Attracts the connections, opportunities, and influence you deserve
Why Your LinkedIn Profile Matters More Than Ever
With over 1 billion members, LinkedIn is the platform for thought leadership. Now, more than ever, a strategic LinkedIn profile is essential for turning your visibility into influence because:
- First impressions are digital: Potential connections or prospects will likely check your LinkedIn profile before reaching out. They’ll look up your expertise and credibility.
- Thought leaders are vocal and provide value: LinkedIn is the platform where you can do both, sharing insights, expertise, and bold opinions.
- Business opportunities start here: An optimized profile with solid connections and regular engagement gets you seen by decision-makers.
- The algorithm wants you active: LinkedIn rewards actively engaging profiles that share valuable content. At 500+ connections, more professionals in your network will start seeing your content.
Research by Edelman and LinkedIn shows that professionals position themselves as industry leaders on the platform to:
- Increase positive sentiment among potential customers (55%)
- Persuade leads to reach out for more information (48%)
- Compel prospects to consider their services (40%)
Ready to freshen up your LinkedIn profile and make yourself noticed? Our savvy senior-level marketers at Crackerjack Marketing can help you create a professional and impactful profile.
Let’s connect and start your LinkedIn profile makeover. We’ll use a blend of strategy, personal branding, and corporate alignment to:
- Make your personal brand shine
- Boost your employer branding
Key Components of a LinkedIn Profile
Every single section of your LinkedIn profile should pull people in deeper, like a funnel that:
- Offers a preview of what you have to offer
- Grabs attention and teases your best work
- Makes your audience hit follow
Here’s how each of your profile’s key components helps.
LinkedIn Banner
This image at the top of the page sets the stage. It’s the first thing someone sees on your profile. Use it to tell who you are or what you offer before they read a word.
LinkedIn Profile Picture
Based on your picture, people decide whether to trust you in seconds (hello, halo effect). Upload a professional, approachable headshot to nail the first impression.
LinkedIn Headline
The headline is the first thing people see after your face. It expands on what you do and the value you provide. So, it can either hook them or have them scroll past.
LinkedIn About Section
People read this to figure out if you’re worth following. Convince them by sharing your “why,” what you’re passionate about, and what you bring to the table.
LinkedIn Experience Section
Traditionally, your CV would go here. It’s the place to lay bare your credibility in a way that tells people, “I’ve been there and done that.”
LinkedIn Featured Section
This section spotlights your best work so visitors get a snapshot of your expertise. It’s the best place to slide a call to action or share your website or landing page.
LinkedIn Recommendations
Peer reviews carry weight. People trust them more than self-promotion. Put your social proof here, inviting others to back up what you’ve said about yourself.
LinkedIn Content Strategy
This platform is both a social network and a search engine. You must consistently post insightful content to stand out. And you can only do that with a strategy.
LinkedIn Audience Network
On LinkedIn, your network really is your net worth. To make it powerful, don’t just connect without aim. Build relationships with those who best support your goals.
Strategic Approach to LinkedIn Makeover
You need more than a few profile tweaks to transform your LinkedIn presence. Discover the impactful strategy that helps you turn visitors into active connections.
How to Write a LinkedIn Headline
Your headline must be a 220-character power statement. Say what you do and who you help using clear, bold language that shows confidence in your expertise.
If you’re struggling, try this formula:
I help/coach/teach/train/work with [target audience] [solve pain point] [how].
LinkedIn Headline Examples
The two examples below show you how to establish authority and capture attention in your headline.
What we like about Ramit Sethi’s headline:
- Leads with authority and promises value
- It’s specific and appeals directly to his audience’s desire
What we like about Madeline Mann’s headline:
- Engaging and energetic style
- Blends credibility with creativity
- Makes the most of the 220 characters
What is a Good LinkedIn Profile Picture and Banner?
Your headshot should provide a sharp first impression of professionalism and build trust. Anything with the “stock photo” or “blurry selfie” vibe is a big no.
You want it to be high-resolution and clean, making you look approachable—like you just closed a deal and are ready for the next one.
LinkedIn Profile Picture Examples
If an image speaks a thousand words, here’s how pros do it through their LinkedIn profile pictures.
What we like about Rand Fishkin’s profile picture:
- Aligns with his brand of thoughtful, friendly, and helpful marketer
- Appears professional but with a friendly demeanor
- Makes him look competent and easy to talk to
What we like about Jennifer Stojkovic’s profile picture:
- Exudes the savvy confidence of a Venture Capitalist
- Projects authority and leadership
- Looks professional and approachable
What Should My LinkedIn Banner Be?
Your banner should help visitors understand:
- Who you are and what you do
- Who do you help, and what problems do you solve
Customize it and align it with your message. If you’re all about tech, make it sleek and minimal. If you’re in marketing, try something dynamic with energy.
LinkedIn Banner Examples
The following thought leaders clearly know how to convey their expertise and prompt visitors to take action.
What we like about David Green’s banner:
- Immediately shows what he specializes in
- Prominently features key visuals that prompt you to take action
- Provides free value that gets you one step closer to becoming a follower
What we like about Serena Huang’s banner:
- Well-structured and engaging
- Positions her as an authority in her field
- Cleverly incorporates her upcoming book
- Tells potential clients where to reach out
How to Write a LinkedIn About Section
With your About section, granularity is key. You want to get deep into what you have achieved and the projects you’ve been involved in. Talk about the problems you’ve solved and how you add value.
But don’t list your resume. Tell your story, real and sharp.
Ensure your About section is easily readable by adding line breaks, bullet points, and plenty of white space between ideas.
LinkedIn About Section Examples
Look at two strong examples of how to communicate your professional impact and personal values.
What we like about Nathan Hirsch’s About section:
- Strong lead that highlights extensive experience and entrepreneurial success
- Clear achievements with measurable results
- Proof of diverse expertise and skills
What we like about Lottie Khan’s About section:
- Balances professionalism with warmth, coming across as approachable
- Clearly outlines her role, areas of expertise, and recruitment interests
- Adds immediate value for readers, with direct links to apply
How to Write LinkedIn Experience Descriptions
Think of this as your highlight reel, full of numbers and percentages. Tell where you’ve been and what you’ve done, but focus on results, not tasks.
Instead of “Responsible for streamlining operations,” say, “I have increased revenue by 30% through streamlining operations.”
LinkedIn Experience Section Examples
Below are two perfect examples of thought leaders showing their achievements and impact instead of job duties.
What we like about Evan Fisher’s Experience section:
- Direct and results-oriented
- Confidently positions him as a leader
- Roles showcase a clear value proposition, proven results, and unique differentiation
What we like about Anna Elwood’s Experience section:
- Highlights her leadership, strategic thinking, and impressive results
- Proves her ability to manage large teams and drive growth
♟️ Your Turn
You’ve seen the examples and why they work, but execution is another game.
Need help shaping your experience into a LinkedIn profile that positions you as a thought leader? Count on our senior marketers!
With years of expertise in data-driven LinkedIn marketing, we’ll help revamp your profile and craft a high-converting content strategy.
Let’s work together to enhance your personal brand and thought leadership.
How to Add Featured and Activity Sections
Missing some profile sections? Click on your photo at the upper right corner and select “View profile.” From there, simply:
- Tap on “Add profile section”;
- Select the “Recommended” field;
- Select the sections you want to add from the menu that will drop;
- Follow the prompts and tap Save when you’re done.
Pro Tip:
Use your Featured and Activity sections to display content that:
- Makes you look like a rockstar in your field
- Offers free value with a CTA to collect emails
You could share articles you’ve written, projects you’ve completed, or case studies. Or invite them to register for a free masterclass or webinar.
How to Get Recommendations on LinkedIn
Ask people who’ve seen your work in action, and don’t hesitate to suggest what they should mention.
The more tailored and detailed their answers, the better. So, instead of vague compliments, aim for specific praise and results sharing, like “increased client satisfaction by 25%.”
RESOURCE:
Customize this template to keep the ask focused and get a stronger recommendation:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently refining my LinkedIn profile and would love to include a recommendation from you, who have seen my work up close. Could you highlight [specific project, result, or skill]?
Your feedback would mean a lot. Feel free to mention anything else you think stood out. Thank you for considering this!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
What to Post on LinkedIn
Lack of consistency is why people fall behind on LinkedIn. But don’t post just for the sake of it.
Keep things fresh by mixing up text, video, and polls. And try to stay on one of these three content paths that fit your role:
- Share insights from your executive experience
- Research emerging trends in your industry
- Interview other thought leaders and report their strategies
How to Network on LinkedIn
Be strategic. Select the most relevant industry peers, potential clients, and thought leaders and engage with their posts—don’t just lurk.
Aside from being a part of the conversations on their profiles, you can:
- Write them a recommendation
- Feature them in your various posts
- Invite them to do an online event together
Pro Tip:
The first hour after posting is crucial for reach and visibility. Message the top performers in your industry and ask when they usually post so you can:
- Show up daily as the first one commenting with something valuable
- Boost their visibility and yours
- Build stronger relationships
(Yes, you can assign this task to your corporate team or whoever is in charge of your LinkedIn growth.)
Feel free to tweak this short networking template:
“Hi, [Name] – I love your content and want to engage daily as soon as you post. What time do you normally post?”
Is it Worth Hiring a Professional for Your LinkedIn Makeover?
Absolutely—if you want to:
- Grow your personal brand as an industry thought leader
- Attract high-level connections and opportunities
- Boost your employer brand in the process
On average, visitors spend under 8 minutes on your profile (if your messaging resonates.) An expert LinkedIn profile consultant helps you:
- Create a lead magnet profile
- Prove you’re worth your audience’s time and attention
At Crackerjack Marketing, we specialize in these makeovers. Want to stand out as a thought leader and make every minute visitors spend on your profile count?
Contact us today! Our team will craft a profile that showcases your value and drives growth—for you and your company.
What to Expect from a LinkedIn Makeover Service
Our LinkedIn makeover service blends strategy, personal branding, and corporate alignment. Here’s what you get with us:
- LinkedIn-centric executive branding: We revamp your profile to align your personal brand with your corporate goals. You’ll come across as authoritative and attract higher-level connections.
- Bold, human-centered approach: You want to look professional and approachable. We nail that balance by combining credibility with personality—confident enough to stand out but genuine enough to build trust.
- Proven, data-driven strategies: We’ve honed our strategies through experience, so our data-backed methods actually work. You get content that converts and delivers measurable impact.
- Senior-level expertise: Our senior experts (no juniors allowed) handle every detail. They ensure your strategy is tight, your profile boasts expertise, and you have a winning content formula.
- Global perspective: With teams in Chicago, Mumbai, and Barcelona, we bring a global outlook to your LinkedIn branding. Your executive profile will resonate and make an impact across diverse markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Need more clarity on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile? Read these FAQ answers:
What Are the Best Ways to Ask for Recommendations?
Reach out to people you’ve worked closely with. Instead of generic requests, specify what you’d like them to highlight. The more tailored your ask, the better the recommendation.
Should I Connect With Everyone on LinkedIn?
No. 500+ connections are critical for your reach, but you should connect with people relevant to your industry or goals. Focus on those who add value to your network or vice versa.
Should I Keep My LinkedIn Profile Public or Private?
A private profile limits visibility, so it’s not an option if you’re serious about building your brand or attracting opportunities. Keep it public to allow recruiters, peers, and even diverse buyer personas to discover you. Just be mindful of what you share, and make sure it’s polished.
How Often Should I Post Content on LinkedIn?
Posting too often without value can dilute your credibility. Then again, consistency is key. So, aim for 2-3 times a week, focusing on valuable insights that position you as an expert.
Conclusion
Your insights, ideas, and expertise deserve to be seen. And LinkedIn can put you under the spotlight. But without the right makeover strategy, your profile might be holding you back.
If you’re ready to take the lead in your industry, Crackerjack Marketing is here to help.
Reach out and inquire about our LinkedIn profile optimization service. We’ll craft a LinkedIn presence that:
- Showcases your value
- Opens doors to high-level connections and opportunities
