Does your LinkedIn banner picture attract your ideal clients? It's important to remember that your banner picture is your chance to make a good first impression. We all know you only get one shot at a first impression.

In general, your banner picture should be consistent with your messaging. Whom do you serve? How do you serve? What problems do you solve?

Ask yourself, will your ideal client see your banner and think "Where have you been all my life?"

If not, time to rethink it. The more narrow and targeted your message, the more success you will see. This may seem counter-intuitive. Instinct seems to say to speak to as broad an audience as possible. However, it is by being extremely clear and focused on your specific audience that you will attract the people who need you. Too broad and you attract random connections instead of targeted ones.

Want your LinkedIn Banner to work like a magnet?

Once you are clear on your message, check out these 3 powerful tips for creating a banner picture that speaks the language of your prospects:

1. Start with Canva.com – Tips:

Use the LinkedIn banner template for proper sizing NOTE: Once created, do NOT use the Post to LinkedIn Option – it will be show as a post and not as your banner picture
Leave space on your Canva creation for your headshot so that none of your words are covered up
Spelling and grammer MATTER - proof and then proof again if you want to be seen as the professional you are (did you spot my intentional typo in this newsletter?)
You may have to make several adjustments before it shows up the way you want when uploaded to LinkedIn.

2. Include your NAME, LOGO, and some contact info - phone number, email, website - your choice.

3. Include a CTA (Call to Action) – This could be “ring my bell”, Follow me, Click the link below for [name of your lead magnet/opt-in], or something else. One thing it should NOT be is some version of contact me such as “Message me” or “Call me” or “Schedule a meeting”.

A banner picture is not a "one and done". Think of it as a billboard. I like to change mine about once a month. You can see some of the ones I've used in the past below. It is important to use your brand colors. Here are some banner pictures I've used in the past:

I can't wait to see your new banner picture creation on YOUR LinkedIn Profile! Please tag me or message me on LinkedIn so I can check out your new banner picture! Here's my LinkedIn Profile - linkedin.com/in/laurabarkerjd/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LinkedIn