In a recent post, I shared how to maximize your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn Optimization, or LIO, is key to your networking success. Here are the top mistakes people make when building their network and profile on LinkedIn:

Mistake #1
Using no photo or an unprofessional photo. LinkedIn is clearly not Facebook, so spend a few bucks and have professional headshots taken by a real photographer. Make sure the photographer crops one of your pictures down to the recommended size used by LinkedIn, which is 80 x 80 pixels. The file size limit to upload is 4MB.

Mistake #2
Using your company email as either your contact email or, gasp, your login email. Unless you own the company, use a personal email address. What happens if you’re let go, or the company goes out of business? You may be locked out of your profile (and miss potential connections!).

Mistake #3
Incomplete work and educational history. Think about how you’d build connections – by places you’ve worked at and school’s you’ve attended. It’s natural to start our connections by the familiar, so include complete details about work and school.

Mistake #4
Expecting to close business on the first contact. Networking, whether in person or online, is an ongoing process. Your success comes from constantly making new connections, sharing great content and keeping in touch.

Since there are many ways to get noticed on LinkedIn, you’ll need to get comfortable with this form of self-promotion. Start with the right attitude about networking, which means giving more than asking, and you’ll build much better connections. And if you’re making these mistakes, correct them as soon as you can.

Photo credit by Cieleke.