Key Takeaways
- As a business owner, your LinkedIn profile isn’t a résumé. You don’t have to include every job you’ve ever had. Feel free to edit and just include what supports what you do now.
- What matters most is how you help people today. Make that the focus of your headline and About section.
- You can shape your profile to attract the right clients. Use the space to show your value, not just your history.
Make Your LinkedIn Profile Work for Your Business
If your LinkedIn profile still reads like a résumé, you’re probably not using it to support your business. As a business owner, you’re not looking for your next job — you’re trying to build trust, get found, and attract the right people.
That means your profile should focus on the value you offer now, not every job you’ve ever had.
Your Headline Should Say What You Do (Not Just Your Title)
Your headline is the short line that shows up right under your name. It’s also one of the most visible parts of your profile.
If it just says “Owner” or “President,” you’re missing a chance to tell people what you actually do and who you help. A stronger version might be: “Helping local nonprofits get control of their finances” or “Accounting support for busy small business owners.”
This one simple change can make a big difference.
Use the About Section to Talk to Your Ideal Client
The About section is where you can speak directly to the people you want to work with. Instead of writing your career history, use this space to share:
- What problems you solve
- Who you help
- What makes your approach different
- What someone should do next
Be sure to include a simple call to action like “Visit our website,” “Schedule a consult,” or “See our latest work.” Make it easy for someone to take that next step.
Add Featured Content That Supports What You Do
Your Featured section is one of the most useful parts of LinkedIn, but a lot of business owners skip it. Use this section to highlight something that backs up what you do. It could be a blog post, a video, a lead magnet, or a testimonial.
You don’t have to do it all at once. Just start by adding one thing that helps someone understand your value.
LinkedIn Is a Search Engine Too
LinkedIn is more than a digital business card. It’s a search engine. That means the words you use matter. Use the same language your clients would. Avoid industry terms or jargon if your customers don’t use those.
If someone lands on your profile today, would they know what you do, who you help, and how to get started? If not, it’s time for an update.
Try This: Simple Updates to Make Today
- Rewrite your headline. Say what you do and who you help, not just your title.
- Cut or edit roles that don’t reflect what you offer now. You’re allowed to leave out what doesn’t support your current business.
- Add one link to your Featured section. A blog post, video, or offer is a great place to start.
The Bottom Line
Your LinkedIn profile should reflect the value you offer today, not just a list of past jobs. With a few simple changes, you can turn it into a tool that works for your business, not just your career history.
Do you prefer to listen in? Here’s our podcast:
Links in this episode: Get the Most Out of LinkedIn
How to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand Out: 30+ Tips
3 LinkedIn Strategies To Turn Your Founder’s Voice Into A Pipeline Driver
