Raising my Internet Profile

August marks the month of extreme networking…at least in my book.  In August I’ll be visiting two – three schools and also attending a few MBA fairs.  I’m REALLY excited, but at the same time slightly nervous as well.  Although I don’t think every person I meet will GoogleMe....

….I do want to have a presence on the Internet.  In preparation, I’ve decided to make-over my LinkedIN profile.  Not that I have/had anything crazy on there, but I do want my interests to come across more clearly. 
 
Currently, I just have some positions I held..but  I haven’t filled in any  descriptions.  Therefore I’ve been Googling tips on how to put my best foot forward.  So several weeks ago, while I was at a conference for work, I asked my friend with a GREAT camera (DSLR for the photogeeks) to take a few professional headshots of me.  It may sound slightly vain, but I wanted to have a sleek photo for recruiters/Admission Officers/MBA Students.  I contemplated scheduling a professional photo…but these photos came out great…and were free :-)

As a sidebar (based on some convo's I've had) – once you get into school and possibly receive fellowships/awards, a headshot is usually needed.  So its nice to be ahead of the game. 
 
My next step this week is to develop a bio, and provide a short description of my previous roles and general interests….all before August 4 (ideally).  Anyways here are a few tips that I picked up along the way…and a few resources to help:

•    Fully complete your Linked-In profile with a bio and descriptions of your currently held positions
•    Provide a professional headshot in your profile
•    If you decide to share your email address, it should be professional (not reminescent of favorite songs/artists etc).  Also, ask yourself do I want LinkedIN emails going to work? (i.e maybe you shouldn’t use your work email)
•    UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE your profile…don’t let it get too stagnant (like mine….)
 
Additional info:
LinkedIN Tips

-Motown