Last Updated on March 19, 2025
By Julie Livingston, president, WantLeverage Communications
Earlier this year, Julie Livingston gave a presentation to the NYSAE Community entitled, “Position Yourself for Success by Leveraging LinkedIn.” With more than a billion users, LinkedIn is the premier business networking platform on which to establish your professional presence and industry leadership. More than just a job search tool, it is the place on which to make new connections, meet other like-minded professionals, express thought leadership, attend live audio and video events, and expand your knowledge.
Your presence on LinkedIn is only as dynamic as your profile and content, so be sure to regularly update and optimize your profile using all of the latest features. Start by getting a professional headshot and add graphics to the header background area (often underutilized real estate) to succinctly telegraph what you do. Make sure your contact information includes an email address so people can connect. Leverage the Featured section — like a theatrical marquis — to showcase key accomplishments and news. Then, devise a content strategy and content pillars — key themes you’ll regularly post about. Next comes content. Aspire to maintain a posting schedule of 2-3 times a week on consecutive days. Most importantly, be your authentic self; human and transparent stories are what garner engagement. Show photos or video of yourself in action in the field as this is a valuable community building technique. Finally, close each post with a compelling call to action message, wh ich will prompt people to think about your content and comment, like, or share.
