How to Write a LinkedIn Profile Summary

Hey guys! I'm back again to talk to you about another aspect of building your perfect LinkedIn presence – the profile summary section. If you've been struggling with what to write in those crucial first few paragraphs of your profile, you're not alone. This often-overlooked section is actually your prime real estate for making a memorable first impression and telling your professional story.

In today's post, I'll break down exactly what makes a LinkedIn summary stand out, share some proven templates you can customize, and walk you through my step-by-step process for crafting a summary that attracts the right connections and opportunities.

Let's dive in and transform this challenging section into your most powerful personal marketing tool!

Why your LinkedIn summary matters more than you think

Before we get into the how-to, let's talk about why this section deserves your attention. Your summary is basically your professional elevator pitch – you've got about 30 seconds (or in this case, 2,600 characters) to convince someone you're worth connecting with or hiring.

The truth? Most recruiters and potential connections will skim your headline, glance at your photo, and then immediately check out your summary. If it doesn't grab them right away, they might never scroll down to see your impressive experience or education. Harsh, I know, but that's the reality of our quick-scrolling world!

Plus, your summary is prime keyword real estate for LinkedIn's search algorithm. The right words here can dramatically boost how often you appear in searches by recruiters and potential connections. So yeah, these few paragraphs are kind of a big deal!

Where to find your LinkedIn summary section

Before we dive into creating the perfect summary, let's make sure you can actually find where to put it! The summary section (officially called the "About" section by LinkedIn) appears right below your profile photo, headline, and connection information.

Here's how to locate and edit it:

1. Log in to your LinkedIn account. Click on your profile photo in the top navigation bar to go to your profile. Scroll down slightly past your header image, profile photo, and headline.

2. Look for the "About" section – this is your summary. To edit it, click the pencil icon in the top right corner of this section. You'll then see a text editor where you can write or paste your summary. After writing, click "Save" at the bottom of the editor.

3. If you're brand new to LinkedIn, you might need to add this section by clicking the "Add profile section"( Highlighted in the first screenshot) button and selecting "About" under the Core options.

Keep in mind that the first 3 lines (approximately 300 characters) of your summary are what people see before they have to click "see more," so make those opening lines count!

Why your LinkedIn summary matters more than you think

Before we get into the how-to, let's talk about why this section deserves your attention. Your summary is basically your professional elevator pitch – you've got about 30 seconds (or in this case, 2,600 characters) to convince someone you're worth connecting with or hiring.

The truth? Most recruiters and potential connections will skim your headline, glance at your photo, and then immediately check out your summary. If it doesn't grab them right away, they might never scroll down to see your impressive experience or education. Harsh, I know, but that's the reality of our quick-scrolling world!

Plus, your summary is prime keyword real estate for LinkedIn's search algorithm. The right words here can dramatically boost how often you appear in searches by recruiters and potential connections. So yeah, these few paragraphs are kind of a big deal!

The 5 essential elements every LinkedIn summary needs

Let's break down what makes a summary work:

1. A hook that grabs attention

Your first line of summary act as the headline of a daily newspaper article – it needs to make the reader stop scrolling. Whether it's a surprising statement, an intriguing question, or a bold claim about your expertise, make those first 10-15 words count!

Example: "I turn failing startups into million-dollar success stories – and I've done it seven times in the last decade."

2. Your professional story (Not just your resume)

Don't just list your jobs – tell the story behind them! What drives you? How did you get where you are? What unique perspective do you bring because of your particular journey? This is where you add the human element that makes you memorable.

The fun fact is, people connect with stories, not just credentials. Share yours in a way that highlights your unique value and makes an emotional connection.

3. Proof of your impact

Anyone can claim to be "passionate" or "innovative" – but can you back it up? Include 2-3 specific achievements with real numbers when possible. This transforms vague claims into concrete evidence of your value.

Instead of saying "Experienced marketing professional," try "Marketing strategist who increased client conversion rates by 43% through data-driven campaign optimization."

4. Your professional personality

Your summary should sound like you. Let your authentic voice shine through. Are you witty? Straightforward? Passionate? Strategic? Whatever your professional personality is, make sure it comes across.

This doesn't mean getting super casual or sharing inappropriate details – just making sure your unique professional voice comes through. 

5. A clear call-to-action

Don't leave readers hanging! Tell them exactly what you want them to do next. Looking for collaborations? Seeking new clients? Open to mentoring? Spell it out.

Example: "I'm currently looking to connect with sustainability-focused startups in need of growth strategy consultation. Feel free to message me directly to discuss how we might work together."

Writing your summary: A step-by-step approach

Now let's get practical! Here's my foolproof process for creating a LinkedIn summary that works:

Step 1: Brainstorm your professional brand

Before writing anything, ask yourself:

• What problems am I exceptionally good at solving?
• What makes my approach different from others in my field?
• What am I known for professionally?
• Who exactly do I want to reach on LinkedIn?

The answers become your personal brand ingredients.

Step 2: Structure your summary

Once you know the answers, the next step is to organize your thoughts in this proven format:

• Opening hook (1-2 sentences)
• Who you are professionally (1-2 sentences)
• Your journey and unique perspective (2-3 sentences)
• Your specific achievements and skills (2-3 sentences)
• Your current focus and interests (1-2 sentences)
• Call-to-action (1 sentence)

Step 3: Write a rough draft

Don't aim for perfection! Just get your ideas down following the structure above. Write conversationally, as if you're explaining your professional self to someone at a networking event.

Step 4: Edit ruthlessly

Now trim the fat! LinkedIn summaries should ideally be 3-5 short paragraphs. Cut anything that doesn't directly support your professional brand or speak to your target audience. Every word should earn its place.

Step 5: Add strategic keywords

Review job postings in your target field and note recurring skills and qualifications. Naturally, incorporate these keywords into your summary to improve your searchability.

Step 6: Get feedback

Share your draft with trusted colleagues or mentors. Ask specifically: "Does this sound like me?" and "Would you want to connect with this person?"

Common summary mistakes to avoid

Let's talk about what NOT to do:

1. Writing in the third person – It sounds weird and creates distance. Use "I" and "my" instead of your name.

2. Being too modest – This isn't the time for humility! Own your achievements and skills.

3. Using industry jargon – Unless you're in a highly technical field where specific terminology matters, keep it accessible.

4. Writing a novel – If it takes more than 30 seconds to read, it's too long. Be concise!

5. Being overly formal – Corporate-speak is boring. Write like you talk (but professionally).

Summary templates for different career stages

For Recent Graduates

Recent [Your Degree] graduate from [University] with a passion for [industry/field]. During my studies, I specialized in [relevant coursework/projects] and developed strong and analytical perspectives in [key skills]. My internship at [Company] allowed me to [achievement]. I'm eager to bring my fresh perspective and [specific skills] to a role in [target industry]. Currently seeking opportunities in [specific role/industry] where I can [what you want to accomplish]. Let's connect if you know of exciting opportunities for ambitious new talent in this space!

For Mid-Career Professionals

With [X] years transforming [your expertise area], I've developed a reputation for [your professional superpower]. My career journey through [brief mention of career path] has equipped me with unique insights into [industry knowledge]. At [Current/Recent Company], I [specific achievement with numbers]. I'm passionate about [professional interest] and skilled in [key skills]. Currently focused on [current professional goal], I'm open to connecting with fellow [industry] professionals interested in [specific topics/collaborations].

For Entrepreneurs/Freelancers:

"I help [your target clients] achieve [specific outcome] through [your service/product]. After [brief background], I founded [your business] to solve [problem in the market]. My approach combines [your methodology] with [your unique perspective], resulting in [typical results for clients]. Recent projects include [brief mention of notable work]. I'm particularly interested in working with [ideal client type] facing challenges with [specific problems you solve]. If that sounds like you, let's connect and explore how I might help your business grow.

Final thoughts

After discussing all about summary, i want to take to you to the point that your LinkedIn summary is not set in stone – it should evolve as your career does. I recommend revisiting it every 6-12 months or whenever you make a significant career move.

A perfect summary attract the right people for your specific professional goals. Be authentic, be specific, and focus on the value you bring. Update you LinkedIn summary, notice what approach works best for you. And if you found this blog helpful, make sure to check out my previous post on optimizing your LinkedIn headline for maximum impact!

Faq’s

How long should my LinkedIn summary be?

Your summary should be concise enough to read in about 30 seconds - typically 3-5 short paragraphs. LinkedIn allows up to 2,600 characters (roughly 400-500 words), but you don't need to use all that space. 

Should I include personal information in my LinkedIn summary?

Include personal details only if they're relevant to your professional brand or help you connect with your target audience. For example, mentioning volunteer work to showcase relevant skills or values can be effective, but details about your familyare generally better left out.

How often should I update my LinkedIn summary?

Review your summary every 6-12 months or whenever you make a significant career move. Your LinkedIn summary should evolve as your career does. This ensures it accurately reflects your current skills, achievements, and professional goals.

Should I mention specific technologies or tools I know in my summary?

If you're in a technical field, mentioning key technologies can be helpful for searchability, but don't turn your summary into a skills list. That's what the Skills section is for. 

What's the difference between my LinkedIn headline and summary?

Your headline is the short description that appears right under your name (limited to 220 characters). It's like a title on a business card. Your summary is the longer "About" section that appears below your headline and gives you space to tell your full professional story.

How do I make my summary stand out among millions of others?

Focus on being specific rather than generic. Instead of saying you're "passionate about marketing," explain exactly what aspect of marketing excites you and share a specific achievement that demonstrates this passion. 

Is it better to write my summary in first person or third person?

First person ("I" and "my") is strongly recommended. Third person can create an uncomfortable distance and often comes across as pretentious on LinkedIn. Write as if you're having a conversation with someone at a professional networking event.