I have taught many Undergraduate and Graduate Business courses that require students to set up their LinkedIn profiles. It is always surprising to me how many people have never created one, and among those who have, many fail to use even the most basic features. Some don’t upload a profile picture or use a background image. Others leave their “About” section blank, missing a key opportunity to introduce themselves to potential employers, clients, or collaborators. LinkedIn is one of the most powerful professional networking tools available, yet even experienced users often overlook some of its most valuable features. Knowing how to use LinkedIn effectively can set you apart in your industry, enhance your professional presence, and help you build stronger connections. Here are some features you may not be using—but should.
How To Use LinkedIn Creator Tools To Establish Thought Leadership
LinkedIn previously had a Creator Mode toggle, but as of 2024, it has been replaced with individual Creator Tools that users can enable separately. These tools include LinkedIn Live, Newsletters, and a Follow Link option. If you have access to these features, they will appear under Analytics on your profile. To enable them, go to your profile and scroll down to Analytics, which is located near the top, just below the section that shows your profile picture. Here, you’ll see options for LinkedIn Live, which allows live broadcasting; Newsletters, which lets you create recurring content that followers can subscribe to; and Follow Link, which prioritizes followers instead of connection requests. You can activate each of these features individually based on your content strategy.
These tools help professionals build a stronger presence on LinkedIn by giving them more ways to engage with their audience and showcase expertise. If you don’t see these options, LinkedIn may not have granted access to them on your account, as some features may require a Premium subscription.
How To Use LinkedIn’s ‘Featured’ Section To Showcase Your Best Work
Most people’s LinkedIn profiles list their jobs and responsibilities, but few take advantage of the Featured Section. This section allows you to highlight key accomplishments, including articles, media appearances, presentations, or other content that reinforces your expertise.
To add content to this section, go to your profile and select Add Profile Section, then choose Featured. From there, you can upload files, link to external articles, or highlight specific LinkedIn posts. This is particularly useful for speakers, authors, and consultants who want to showcase their work in a highly visible area of their profile.
How To Customize Your LinkedIn URL For A More Professional Presence
By default, LinkedIn assigns a long, random URL to your profile, but you can customize it to make it cleaner and easier to share. A custom LinkedIn URL—such as linkedin.com/in/drdianehamilton—makes your profile look more polished and is easier for recruiters, clients, or collaborators to remember.
To change your URL, go to your profile and click on Edit Public Profile & URL in the top right corner. Under Edit Your Custom URL, you can modify it to reflect your name or brand. If your name is already taken, consider adding your industry or credentials (e.g., linkedin.com/in/johndoeconsulting).
How To Use LinkedIn Newsletters To Build An Engaged Audience
LinkedIn Newsletters are one of the best ways to engage your network on a recurring basis. Unlike regular LinkedIn posts, Newsletters allow users to subscribe, meaning they receive notifications whenever you publish new content. This makes them an excellent tool for thought leaders and business owners who want to stay top of mind with their audience.
To start a Newsletter, go to Analytics on your profile and check if the option for Newsletters is available under Creator Tools. If it is, enable it and go to Write An Article on LinkedIn. From there, select Create A Newsletter, choose a name, describe your focus, and start publishing articles that will automatically be shared with your subscribers.
How To Get Clients Through LinkedIn Services Marketplace
LinkedIn Services Marketplace connects freelancers and consultants with potential clients looking for professional services. Unlike the general LinkedIn job board, Services Marketplace is designed specifically for contract and project-based work, making it a tool suitable for speakers, consultants, and independent professionals.
To access Services Marketplace, go to the top navigation bar on LinkedIn and click For Business. In the dropdown menu, select Services Marketplace. From there, you can apply to be a service provider. If approved, you’ll be able to receive project requests and submit proposals. While it doesn’t guarantee leads, it’s an additional way to get in front of businesses actively seeking your expertise.
How To Use The Providing Services Feature In LinkedIn To Attract Clients
If you offer professional services, the providing Services feature allows you to list them directly on your profile. Unlike Services Marketplace, which operates as a separate platform, this feature is visible to anyone who visits your page. It acts as a mini landing page for your business, helping potential clients understand what you offer and making it easier for them to contact you.
To enable this feature, go to your profile, click Add Profile Section, and select Services. From there, you can list your expertise and specify whether you’re open to working remotely, in person, or both. You can list up to 10 services, so choose the ones that best describe your offerings.
How To Use LinkedIn Events To Host Webinars Or Networking Sessions
LinkedIn Events allow users to create virtual or in-person events and invite their network. This is particularly useful for speakers, coaches, and industry experts who want to host webinars, networking sessions, or live discussions.
To create an Event, click the LinkedIn icon at the top of your homepage to go to your main feed. Scroll down the left-hand column until you see Events. Select Create Event, fill in the details, and invite attendees. You can also promote your event through LinkedIn posts, making it a powerful way to grow your professional community.
How To Use Career Explorer In LinkedIn To Find Unexpected Job Opportunities
LinkedIn’s Career Explorer is a lesser-known tool that helps professionals discover career paths they might not have considered. By analyzing your current skills, Career Explorer suggests roles that align with your background and highlights any skill gaps you may need to fill.
Since this tool is not easily found on LinkedIn’s site, you can access it directly here: LinkedIn Career Explorer. Whether you’re looking to pivot careers or simply understand new opportunities, this tool provides data-driven insights that can guide your next steps.
How To Use Showcase Pages On LinkedIn To Highlight Specific Business Initiatives
For companies or personal brands that want to spotlight specific products, services, or initiatives, Showcase Pages offer a dedicated space beyond the main LinkedIn page. These are particularly useful for businesses that serve different audiences or want to maintain separate branding for various offerings.
To create a Showcase Page:
- Go to Your Company Page
- Click Create (near the top of the page)
- Select “Create A Showcase Page” from the list of options
- Enter Your Page Details and publish
This same menu also allows you to start a post, create an event, post a free job, publish an article, create a newsletter, or run an ad campaign.
Final Thoughts
LinkedIn is more than just a place to list your work history. Its features and navigation often change, so if you have trouble finding a tool, a quick search can help you locate the latest instructions. When used effectively, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for building your personal brand, finding clients, and growing your career. Whether you’re a job seeker, freelancer, or thought leader, these features can help you stand out. If you haven’t been using them, now is the time to start.