What should be in your professional online profile?

Start with a professional photo

Use a recent, clear headshot where you're looking at the camera with a neutral or slight smile. Professional doesn't mean stiff—use natural lighting. Avoid group photos or vacation pictures. This photo should appear on LinkedIn, your website, and anywhere you can control it.

Write a clear bio

Explain what you do in 1-2 sentences. Be specific: "Marketing consultant specializing in B2B startups" is better than "I help businesses grow." Include one or two keywords that matter to your field. This appears on LinkedIn, Twitter, and your website.

List relevant credentials

Include education, certifications, or experience relevant to your field. Don't list every job—focus on roles and achievements that matter to people searching your name. LinkedIn's experience section handles most of this.

Add links strategically

Link to your portfolio, website, published work, or professional projects. Link to content you control and are proud of. Dead links or outdated sites hurt your reputation more than helpful links improve it.

Keep it updated

Outdated profiles look abandoned or unprofessional. Update at least yearly or when major changes happen. Check that links still work and photos still represent you.

Use consistent information

Your name, job title, location, and bio should match across platforms. Inconsistencies confuse search engines and people trying to find you.