LinkedIn Profile Tips: Make Your Profile Stand Out in 2025
There are over 1 billion people on LinkedIn — basically, everyone with a business card and a Wi-Fi connection. People go to LinkedIn to search for solutions, discover trusted professionals, and figure out how to fix their business headaches, and yes, just like you, plenty of folks are also trying to sell stuff.
But with that many users, it's way too easy to get lost.
I first wrote this blog back in 2017, and LinkedIn has since rolled out new formats, new tools and features. And yet, somehow, so many businesses still skip the easy steps that could make their profile shine. So here I am again, giving some simple tips that should help your personal linkedin profile page. In the coming weeks I'll write another guide on how to do this for your company page.
Your Profile Photo:
Let's start with the basics. Your profile photo is the first thing people notice, and it's shocking how many professionals get this wrong. Here's what actually works:
Use a 400×400 pixel headshot with a genuine smile. Not a vacation photo, not a group shot where you've cropped everyone else out, and definitely not your company logo. People connect with people, not brands.
Add a subtle branded color in the background for personality. This doesn't mean going wild with neon pink (unless that's genuinely your brand), but a soft color that reflects your industry or personality can help you stand out while maintaining professionalism.
Think of it this way: if someone scrolled through 50 profiles, would yours make them stop and take a second look?
Headline:
Your headline is prime real estate, and check out what it looks like when you just see it on mobile. It’s not as long as you think…view it in preview.
Keep it short, punchy, and benefit-focused. Instead of "Marketing Manager at ABC Company," try something that shows the value you bring.
Here are two formats that consistently perform well:
"I help [X] do [Y] with [Z]"
"[Problem you solve] | [Job Title + Company] | [Proof point]"
Your Banner:
The banner space (1584×396 pixels) is like having a billboard on your profile, yet most people leave it completely blank. That's free advertising space you're throwing away.
Keep the bottom-left area clear because that's where your profile photo sits. But use the rest of the space strategically.
Add a call-to-action. This could be directing people to your newsletter, booking a demo, downloading a free resource, or visiting your website. Make it crystal clear what you want visitors to do next.
Featured Section: Your Professional Highlight Reel
The Featured Section is your chance to curate what matters most. Instead of just dumping your latest blog posts, think "next step" for visitors.
What do you want people to see that will move them closer to working with you or taking action? This could include:
Lead magnets that capture email addresses
Newsletter signup links
Demo booking pages
Your website or portfolio
Case studies or testimonials
Speaking topics or availability
Custom Link:
LinkedIn lets you add a clickable link right under your headline, and you'd be surprised how many people either skip this entirely or waste it on something generic.
Make your custom link work harder. Instead of just linking to your company homepage, try:
"Visit my website"
"Book an intro call"
"Download my free guide"
"See my portfolio"
"Join my newsletter"
The key is making it action-oriented and specific. Tell people exactly what they'll get when they click.
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression you make in the digital business world. Make sure it's working as hard as you are.