LinkedIn: Are You Even Doing It Right?
Some people use LinkedIn as an active professional network. Others only remember it exists when they need a job. And then there is a third group that barely uses it at all.
There seem to be a few different kinds of LinkedIn users.
One type logs in often, fills out the profile as much as possible, and actually uses LinkedIn to network with other people. They usually have a photo of themselves, fill in their work history, list where they went to school, join groups, and follow newsletters. Many times, this kind of LinkedIn user tends to have over 500 connections.
The second kind of user only thinks about LinkedIn when they are looking for a new job. They may fill in the profile and hopefully add a picture, but since they do not spend much time on the platform, they never seem to build up enough connections. And since they do not have many connections, they do not have much reach on LinkedIn. And since they do not have much reach, they end up not using it.
And I guess there is a third kind of user, one I do not really understand. It is someone who has a profile on LinkedIn but never adds a picture, does not fill in work history, and has zero connections or less than 20 connections. If this is you, I would recommend adding a photo, some work history, and inviting people you actually know in real life, so you have at least 20+ connections before you try open networking.
Think about it. You get a LinkedIn request from someone you do not know, who has no picture, no work history, and nothing else filled out on their profile. Why would you want to connect with that person? What value does that connection bring you? Could this be someone trying to scam you by collecting your information? Who knows?
I go through that same thought process when I screen potential members trying to join the Accounts Payable Professionals Group (APPG) on LinkedIn.
Here Is What I Recommend at a Minimum
- A photo of yourself
- At least 20 connections of people you know in real life
- Your work history
Some time ago, I did a poll asking the Accounts Payable Professionals Group whether they consider it important to have a photo or not. Over 80% responded that it is important to have a photo on a LinkedIn profile.
Open Networking, What Is It?
First, know your connections. Ideally, these are people you know in real life or interact with regularly online. After that, it is a good idea to grow your network intentionally.
Networking with people in shared groups works well, especially in APPG, since we filter for quality members.
You can create a post introducing yourself and invite others to connect. Or comment on someone else's post, introduce yourself, and mention you are open to connecting.
Quick Red Flags on a LinkedIn Profile
- No profile photo
- No work history listed
- Very few connections
- Very little profile information
- A profile that feels incomplete or unclear
Final Thought: LinkedIn Is Not Just a Resume
LinkedIn only works if you use it.
If you treat it like a resume you update once every few years, it will not do much. If you treat it like a place to stay visible and connect with people, it can open doors you did not even know existed.
You do not need to be an influencer. You just need to be present.
Start small. Fix your profile. Add connections. Join conversations.
That is how it builds.
LinkedIn Profile Improvement Checklist
Basic Setup
- Add a clear, recent profile photo
- Build to at least 20 real connections
- Fill in your work history
- Add education if relevant
- Update your location
Make the Profile Stronger
- Write a headline that explains what you do
- Add an About section
- List relevant skills
- Add a background banner
Start Using LinkedIn
- Join relevant groups
- Follow industry voices
- Engage weekly
- Connect with peers and coworkers
- Write a short introduction post
Join the Conversation
If you work in Accounts Payable, join the Accounts Payable Professionals Group (APPG) and start connecting with others in the field.
Robert Ruhno
Founder, Accounts Payable Professionals Group (APPG)
Robert Ruhno leads APPG, a professional community focused on practical insights, networking, and career growth in Accounts Payable.
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