LinkedIn offers a wide array of applications that can add value and interest to your profile. Check them out in this handy guide!

1. Elevate Your Profile with LinkedIn Apps
Is your online branding good, but you want it to be great? Are you looking for ways to become
more visible to the people in your network? Many people overlook the power of adding LinkedIn
applications to their profiles. Here, in alphabetical order, are seven useful apps to help you
stand out from the crowd:
1. Blog Link or Wordpress. If you use one of these blogging platforms, you can add these
apps to connect your blog posts to your LinkedIn profile. Just remember only to sync your
blog to LinkedIn if you write professionally appropriate content.
2. Box.net. This file-sharing application allows you to share important documents with people
in your LinkedIn network. If you’re job hunting, you can post your resume for review and
download. If you’re a business owner, you can post a brochure or one-sheets. If you’re a
writer, post some samples of your work. Box.net also allows you to send files to your
LinkedIn contacts.
3. Events. The event app helps you maximize the value you get from any live event you take
time to attend. Whenever you register for an event, this app will tell you who else is attending
so you can check out people’s profiles (to see who you’d like to meet) or reach out to
introduce yourself beforehand. After an event, you can look up the contacts or potential
customers you met and keep in touch.
4. My Travel by TripIt. If you’re a frequent flyer or road warrior, this is the app for you. TripIt is
a simple way to share with your LinkedIn network where you’ll be and when. TripIt then
alerts you to other people in that area so you can set up meetings or just reach out to say
hello. Plus it tells you when people in your network are visiting your city so you can invite
them to get together.
5. Polls. Not sure what tagline to use for your new business venture? Create a poll and ask
your LinkedIn network for their opinions. Wondering whether a certain job search tool is
worth investing in? Poll your network. As long as your poll is professionally related and quick,
many of your LinkedIn connections will likely be happy to share their views.
6. Reading List by Amazon. Have you ever started an interesting conversation on an airplane
or elsewhere because you noticed the book someone was reading? This is a valuable form
of professional networking and it’s possible to create this experience virtually on your
LinkedIn profile. The Amazon app allows you to create a virtual bookshelf where you can
share and comment on books you’re currently reading, have just read or want to read.
7. SlideShare or Google Presentations. Are you a PowerPoint pro? These apps allow you to
add your favorite PowerPoints directly to your LinkedIn profile. You can include a portfolio of
your work, slides from a recent conference presentation or anything else that will promote
you or your company to your existing and potential LinkedIn connections.
Looking for other apps? Just click on the “More” tab in the LinkedIn navigation and you’ll find a
complete directory.