Your LinkedIn About section is often the most-read part of your profile, shaping first impressions alongside your headline, headshot, and background. Despite its importance, many leave it blank or fill it with uninspiring text, missing chances to connect and stand out.
After reviewing thousands of profiles, it’s clear that most About sections lack energy and individuality. To truly engage, your About should reveal who you are, what matters to you, your achievements, and what sets you apart. Since only the first few lines appear before users must click “see more,” crafting a compelling opening is crucial.
Here are seven powerful ways to begin your LinkedIn About, each starting with the letter P:
- Promise: State the value you consistently deliver.
Example: “I help brands become unforgettable by turning casual customers into loyal fans through strategy, storytelling, and design.” - Purpose: Share your mission or “why.”
Example: “I’m on a mission to end illiteracy by raising funds to bring books and teachers to communities worldwide.” - Passion: Highlight what you deeply care about or love doing.
Example: “I’m obsessed with developing apps that solve real-world problems like helping cancer patients track treatments.” - Point of View: Express your unique perspective or approach.
Example: “The 9-to-5 is dead. I create people strategies that prioritize freedom and flexibility to energize employees.” - Point in Time: Begin with a defining moment or milestone that shaped your career.
Example: “When my CFO suddenly quit, stepping in launched the most exhilarating chapter of my career.” - Provocative Phrase: Use an intriguing statement to grab attention.
Example: “I built a $10M business without selling a single thing and can teach you how.” - Punctuated List: Use a dynamic series of descriptors to sum up your strengths.
Example: “Brand whisperer. Idea machine. Deadline assassin. I turn ordinary marketing into unforgettable campaigns.”
Choose the approach that best tells your story authentically and connects with your audience. Your About section is not only key for LinkedIn but also serves as a foundation for other bios across platforms.
About the author: William Arruda is a keynote speaker, author, and personal branding expert. Watch his Maven Lightning Lesson replay for practical AI tools and LinkedIn advice to enhance your personal brand.