Source: Dirk Haddow, E-quipMe

The way people connect, communicate, do business, and search for potential employees is changing. Social media tools and platforms are shaping the way people, schools, and businesses work and creating a new route to channel information. However, with this new information age, for all its high-tech gadgetry, your success is still based on how well you communicate, how well you write, and present yourself. Good writing is more important than ever.

Your words are your power. The words you write and how well you write them will define your place and space in the digital world.

When drafting your LinkedIn profile, think about the following:

• Write an informative profile headline
• Pick an appropriate photo
• Show off your education
• Develop a professional, confident summary – define who you are, what you (want to) do and why you are unique
• Fill ‘Skills and Expertise’ with keywords
• Update your status regularly
• Show your connectedness – join groups (university / industry / skills)
• Collect diverse recommendations
• Leverage your alumni network and tap into their experience
• Claim your unique LinkedIn URL.
• Share your work
• Engage with employers – follow company pages, comment on company news etc.
• Update regularly AND edit edit edit!