Signed up on LinkedIn (LI) but feeling like you're still in no mans land? Maybe you're right. When people search for your skill set or industry, what are you doing to ensure that you beat out thousands of other profiles to grab their attention?

By now were all familiar with the term search engine optimization (SEO), used to increase your search engine rankings so that potential clients can find your business. But what you may not realize is that LI employs search in a very similar way. For those that don't know the secrets to LinkedIn Search Optimization (LSO), LI can feel like a ghost town.
Connections
Rankings on LI take into consideration, keywords, recommendations and connections. The more people know you on LI, the more known you are in search. Rule #1 Connect.
Get Specific
Using the right keywords can bring qualified leads to you. But in order to get those leads you need to stand out in sea of people who do what you do. Evaluate your title, does it really tell people what you can do for them? Try to think like someone looking for your service. Would they search for that title or something else? Just like SEO, long-tailed keywords are your friend and don't be afraid to use more than one title. The more specific you can be about what you do, without being too rare, the better.
Complete your profile
No picture, little to no information, zero recommendations you might as well throw in the towel. Be thorough, remember this is your online resume and in essence, the advertisement for you or your business. First impressions count.
Add your Websites
This one is often missed and its a shame because you can drive traffic right to your site. Interested parties can and will click your link for more information. LI gives you three, enough to add your company(ies) and your blog.
Summary
The summary is your shot now pitch. Yours shouldn't read like a flat list of jobs. Speak directly to the people landing on your page. Let them know who you are and what you can do for them in a clear, concise manner that is peppered with keywords. Point out your experience and accomplishments but most important, focus on what you can do for them now.
Recommendations
Some people feel intimidated asking for recommendations don't. If they're on LI they know how this works and have probably been in your shoes. Always offer to reciprocate and do so immediately. It ensures your chances of getting a timely recommendation and one that may sparkle just a little bit more. If you're tied for keywords with someone else in your industry, your recommendations and connections are the tie breakers get them.
Though your goal may be to reach as many potentials as you can by optimizing for search, keep in mind that its real connections and the value you bring to them that seals deals.
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Vanessa Nix Anthony is freelance journalist, SEO copywriter and SMM Strategist living in Portland, Oregon. She writes for a variety newspapers, magazines, websites and businesses nationwide. Her commercial work includes Copywriting and PR solutions as well as branding and reputation management for a diverse array of clients such as physicians, lawyers, photographers, graphic designers, filmmakers, fashion designers and media personalities.