LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking platform. Whether you’re looking for a job, trying to grow your business, or simply want to connect with people in your field, having a good LinkedIn profile is essential. Many South Africans overlook LinkedIn, thinking it’s only for office jobs or executives, but in reality, it’s useful for all workers—from artisans to entrepreneurs to students.
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This guide shares practical, step-by-step ways to improve your LinkedIn profile, even if you’re just starting out or using a cellphone. It’s designed with the local context in mind, especially if you’re in a low-to-middle-income bracket.
1. Use a Professional Profile Photo
Your profile photo is the first thing people see. A good picture builds trust and makes your profile more attractive to employers and partners.
Tips for a Good Photo:
- Wear neat, clean clothing suitable for your work environment (e.g., a plain shirt, blouse, or even a work uniform if applicable).
- Make sure the background is clean and not distracting. A plain wall, curtain, or outdoor space with a neutral background works well.
- Use natural lighting. Avoid harsh sunlight or dim rooms.
- Face the camera directly and smile naturally.
- Avoid selfies, group photos, or pictures taken at parties or events.
Why It Matters:
Studies show that LinkedIn profiles with a professional photo are up to 14 times more likely to be viewed.
2. Add a Custom Banner Image
The banner is the wide image behind your profile picture. It gives your profile personality and tells visitors more about what you do or value.
Suggestions for Banner Images:
- A photo of your work environment (for example, your sewing machine, your laptop, your small business stand).
- A slogan or message, like “Helping Local Entrepreneurs Thrive” or “Building a Better Future with Clean Energy”.
- A simple image of your town or a landmark in your province.
- Use free design tools like Canva to create a banner if you have internet access.
Recommended Image Size:
- 1584 pixels wide by 396 pixels high.
3. Write a Strong Headline
Your headline is what appears under your name. Many people just list their job title, like “Waitress” or “Electrician”. But it’s better to use this space to say something about what you offer.
Examples:
- “Reliable Welder | Expert in Custom Steel Gates and Frames”
- “Admin Assistant | Skilled in Office Management and Invoicing”
- “Youth Mentor | Passionate about Community Development in KZN”
Why It Works:
This tells people more about what you actually do and makes you stand out in searches.
4. Write a Personal and Powerful Summary (“About” Section)
The “About” section is your chance to tell your story. Don’t worry about using big words—just be honest, clear, and show pride in your work.
What to Include:
- Who you are and where you’re from.
- What kind of work you do or want to do.
- What experience you have, even if it’s informal.
- Any proud moments or achievements.
- What you are looking for now (a job, clients, a mentor).
- How people can contact you or connect.
Structure Example:
“I am a community-based entrepreneur from Mamelodi with over five years of experience selling home-made cleaning products. I started my small business after completing a basic chemistry course at a local NGO. My goal is to grow into a supplier for schools and offices in Gauteng. I’m passionate about helping other young people start their own businesses. Let’s connect to explore how we can support each other.”
5. List Experience Clearly and Professionally
Your work history doesn’t need to be formal. Include informal jobs, internships, community work, and side hustles.
Each Job Entry Should Include:
- Job title (e.g., “Freelance Plumber” or “Community Health Volunteer”).
- Employer or project name (e.g., “Self-employed”, “Thusanang Community Centre”).
- Location.
- Dates.
- Responsibilities or key results.
Example:
Shoe Repair Specialist
Self-employed, Vosloorus
March 2021 – Present
- Repaired over 500 pairs of shoes for local clients.
- Built a loyal customer base through word-of-mouth.
- Trained one assistant in basic shoe repair techniques.
6. Highlight Skills That Reflect Your Strengths
LinkedIn allows you to list up to 50 skills. Choose a mix of practical and soft skills.
Hard Skills (technical):
- Tiling
- Sewing
- Carpentry
- Microsoft Excel
- Social Media Marketing
- Welding
Soft Skills (personal):
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Leadership
- Problem-solving
- Time Management
Ask your contacts to endorse your skills—this adds credibility.
7. Customise Your LinkedIn URL
You can change your LinkedIn address to something simple. Instead of “linkedin.com/in/u7aj28k”, change it to “linkedin.com/in/thabiso-mashaba”.
This looks more professional and is easier to share on your CV or business card.
8. Add Languages You Speak
If you speak more than one language, list them. This is helpful especially in South Africa, where being multilingual is a big advantage.
Example:
- English (Fluent)
- isiXhosa (Fluent)
- Afrikaans (Basic)
Also check: 5 Strategies to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand Out to Recruiters
9. Use the Featured Section
The Featured section lets you add links, pictures, videos, or PDF files to show your work.
You can add:
- Photos of your products or services
- A video explaining your work
- Links to a blog or Facebook business page
- A scanned certificate or award
10. Engage with Others on LinkedIn
Don’t just set up your profile and leave it. Be active.
Ways to Stay Engaged:
- Share updates about your work or goals.
- Like and comment on others’ posts.
- Follow companies, schools, and leaders in your field.
- Join LinkedIn groups (e.g., South African Job Seekers, Township Entrepreneurs).
Posting once a week keeps your profile visible.
11. Join LinkedIn Groups and Network
Groups are great for learning and meeting people in your industry. Join groups based on your profession, interests, or area.
Search for groups like:
- South African Youth in Business
- African Freelancers Network
- Township Business Owners Forum
When you connect with someone, always add a short message like:
“Hello, I see we both work in the events industry. I’d love to connect and learn from your experience.”
12. Keep Your Profile Updated
A LinkedIn profile is not something you set and forget. Update it every few months.
Check that:
- Your photo is recent.
- Your job and skill details are correct.
- Any new achievements are added.
This shows you’re active and professional.
13. Request Recommendations
Ask people you’ve worked with to write a short recommendation on your profile.
You can say:
“Hi Sipho, we worked together on the school fundraising campaign. Would you be willing to write a short LinkedIn recommendation about our work?”
Recommendations give your profile more trust and personal touch.
14. Monitor Profile Visits and Improve
LinkedIn shows how many people view your profile, what companies they’re from, and which job titles they have.
Look at what kind of people are finding you, and adjust your headline or skills to better target your goals.
Also check: How AI Tools Can Help You Land Your Dream Job
Improving your LinkedIn profile doesn’t require a fancy computer or lots of experience. All it takes is honesty, effort, and consistency. Whether you’re job hunting, running a spaza shop, or learning a trade, a good profile helps open doors you never imagined.
Remember, LinkedIn is not just for top managers or university graduates. It’s for anyone who wants to grow, network, and succeed.
