I thought my LinkedIn profile was fine. This session changed everything.

My first wake-up call: LinkedIn isn’t Instagram

One of the strongest insights from this session was simple but confronting:
LinkedIn is not about aesthetics or empty motivation quotes.

LinkedIn is where:

• You look for jobs and internships

• You build a network that grows with you

• You stay up to date in your field

People change jobs. Companies look for new talent all the time. And very often, opportunities don’t go to “the best candidate on paper”, but to someone who is visible, connected, and active.

That realisation alone made it clear: my profile needed to do more.

1. Stepping up with a professional profile photo

When I heard that profiles with a professional photo get 21 times more views, I stopped hesitating.

I didn’t just take a quick picture. I actually went to a professional photographer.

Neutral and warm background. Head and shoulders. No distractions.
I wanted to look professional, approachable, and credible.

That number (21x more views) made me realise how important first impressions really are.

2. My headline got an upgrade

My old headline only said what I studied. That’s it.
Now, it shows:

• What I’m passionate about

• What interests me professionally

• Where I want to grow

It finally tells people who I am, not just what my status is.

3. Transforming my ‘About’ into a story

I stopped listing facts and started telling a story.

In my About section, I now explain:

• Who I am

• What motivates me

• What I’m good at

• What kind of career I’m aiming for

It’s real. It’s human. People respond to stories they can believe in.

4. Clarifying my education details

Instead of keeping it vague, I clearly described my studies, my focus, and my background. Anyone who opens my profile now immediately understands my foundation.

5. I added all my experience and Yes, even the small stuff!

I used to think student jobs didn’t really matter. I thought they were just something to get by. But I was wrong.

Student jobs, internships, part time jobs, summer gigs,..... Every little experience counts. They show that you take initiative, that you are active and that you are willing to learn. And the numbers don’t lie. Profiles with experience get noticed 36x times more.

Hearing that made me rethink everything. From now on, I am adding it all no matter how small it seems.

6. I added extra sections

I included sections for:

• Projects

• Volunteering

• Extra initiatives

It shows what I do and what I’m passionate about, not just what I study, giving a real glimpse of who you are.

7. The skills that made me stand out 

I picked 10 skills that I’m really good at and that I learned during school, internships, and student jobs. From certain computer programs to other skills I excel at, these are the things that make me unique.

I asked people to endorse these skills so they would be visible on my profile and it really works. Suddenly my profile came alive, everyone could instantly see what I’m good at and the views shot up 17x times.

8. Licenses and certifications? CHECK, added!

I filled in all my licenses and certifications on my profile. It’s a simple step, but it shows proof of what I’ve achieved. Having everything visible gives others confidence in my skills and experience and makes it clear what I can do.

9. Posting projects, learnings, and growth

I don’t do “Thrilled to announce…” posts. Instead, I like to share the things that really matter to me:

• Projects I’m working on

• Events I attend

• Things I learn along the way

It’s my way of showing curiosity, growth, and engagement. Creator mode is on, and I want people to see the journey, not just the headlines.

10. I use LinkedIn to keep learning

I use LinkedIn to keep learning. Following companies, industry voices, and groups helps stay up to date and inspired. LinkedIn Learning comes next to explore new skills. The platform is more than a CV, it is a space for growth and continuous learning.

Things to avoid

Some things instantly reduce credibility:

• AI-generated posts that lack a human touch.
• Buzzwords that sound impressive but say nothing.
• The usual LinkedIn clichés everyone’s seen a million times.

In the end, authenticity always wins. Sharing real experiences, lessons, and perspectives is what actually connects with people and that’s what I aim for every time I post.

Ready to take your LinkedIn to the next level?

Updating your profile isn’t just a task.  It is your chance to tell your story, showcase your skills, and connect with the people and opportunities that matter. I did it, and the difference is real.

If you’ve been putting off your LinkedIn update, there’s no better time to start. Take a look at my profile for inspiration: http://www.linkedin.com/in/estee-boon-92725519a and then go create your version.

You’ll be surprised how many doors can open when your profile finally works for you. Your next connection, internship, or even dream job could be just a click away. Let your LinkedIn tell your story.