🧱 Foundation: Exploring My Community - Social Media Guide

LinkedIn is a leading platform for building professional connections. This guide covers profile setup and engagement strategies to enhance your presence.

Profile Setup

Photo

Use a high-quality, professional photo:

• Smile, face the camera
• No sunglasses, pets, or selfies
• Dress for your industry
• Use a neutral background

A profile photo increases your chances of accepted connection requests.

Banner

Choose a cover image that reflects your profession or location (e.g., data for a health policy analyst).

Headline

Craft a personalized headline using first-person voice. Include how you add value, solve problems, and relevant industry keywords.

Summary

Your summary should include:

• A professional overview
• Work philosophy
• Key skills and competencies
• Motivation and results-oriented statements

Experience & Education

Include all professional experiences (e.g., jobs, internships). Focus on achievements rather than copying your resume.

Custom URL

Customize your LinkedIn URL (e.g., linkedin.com/in/yourname) for a professional touch. Learn more in LinkedIn’s help article on customizing URLs.

Engagement

Connecting

Send personalized invites—always click “Add a Note” when connecting. Avoid using the one-click connect button from suggestions, as it doesn’t allow personalization.

Finding Connections

Search for someone you know (e.g., a colleague) and use the Connect button on their profile to add a message.

Alumni Connections

Search Royal Roads University, click Alumni from the left menu. Filter by location, company, field, and skills. Search identified alumni directly to personalize connection requests.

Jobs

Click the Jobs icon on the top bar. Search by job title, skill, or company. Enter location for targeted results.
Tip: Even if applying via LinkedIn, also apply directly on the company’s site.

Groups

Search "groups" to find professional communities. Or, click the Work icon > Groups to explore work-related options.