Q:  I have a LinkedIn account that I haven’t touched in years, mainly because I have a stable job and thankfully I’m not looking for one. 

I’m aware LinkedIn came out with a new version earlier this year, but I’m questioning whether I should bother updating my profile, what’s the benefit of LinkedIn to someone like me?

A:  Well, LinkedIn is not just for job hunters.  Granted, it’s probably most useful for them, but I think that everyone who’s a professional (or white collar worker) should have a LinkedIn profile.  I see many benefits to having one, here are at least three:

1. It’s like having a digital business card.  Anyone can find you, know your workplace, title and reach out to connect.  But the option to reply or acknowledge the request is always yours since your e-mail and phone number are not public.

2. It’s a way to connect with colleagues outside your company- and also stay in touch with former coworkers.  It’s a way to avoid isolating yourself from the world which is easy to do from the safety of a good job.

3. You can stay connected without trying.  Even if you have no time to attend meetings and network with your peers, you can still know what’s going on.  You’ll be notified when someone in your network gets a promotion, has an anniversary or some other noteworthy event.  Then, LinkedIn helpfully offers you the option to congratulate (or not.)

Have I now convinced you to update your profile?

Regarding the new version of LinkedIn: I’d say -for casual users- the change is mostly cosmetic, more white space, and a cleaner font.   Just like in previous versions, when someone first pulls up your profile, they see a screen (similar to “above the fold” in a newspaper), with your picture, name and a tagline of about 120 characters.  This is where you have a chance to define yourself, so put some thought into it.

The one thing that IS different in the update is that the first two lines of your summary (instead of being buried in the section below) are now prominently previewed “above the fold”.  Offering you another good chance to define your story.

Now, go update your profile. Hope I convinced you it’s worth it.

Here’s a good 13min video tutorial.

©Copyright Eva Del Rio

Eva Del Rio is creator of HR Box™ – tools for small businesses and startups. Send questions to Eva@evadelrio.com