How to write a LinkedIn summary + tips & examples

Picture of Written by Melania
Written by Melania

Content Writer at SocialBee

Almost done setting up your LinkedIn profile, but can’t quite figure out what to put in that “About” section? We’ll help you fill it in with a few tips and tricks on how to write a LinkedIn summary.

Summarizing your career and personality in just a few paragraphs might seem complicated at first, but rest assured that it can be easier than you think. All you need is a few smart ways to tackle the task, and you’ll have a compelling LinkedIn summary in no time.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about writing your LinkedIn profile summary, plus some useful examples to get you started. 

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Short summary

  • A LinkedIn summary is the text in the “About” section below your profile picture and headline and summarizes your experience and skills in under 2600 characters. 
  • A well-written LinkedIn summary helps you stand out, showcase your personality, and improve your profile’s visibility in search results.
  • To add a LinkedIn summary, go to your profile, click “Add profile section,” select “Add about,” and write your description.
  • Your LinkedIn summary should start with a strong, engaging hook that grabs attention and encourages people to click “See more.”
  • Use storytelling to make your LinkedIn summary engaging by sharing your career journey, motivations, and key turning points.
  • Include relevant keywords in your LinkedIn summary to improve search visibility, but keep the text natural and engaging.
  • End your LinkedIn summary with a clear call-to-action that encourages users to connect, message you, or explore your services.
  • Highlight your specific expertise and back it up with data to make your LinkedIn summary more credible and impactful.
  • Avoid making your LinkedIn summary a copy of your CV, overloading it with personal details, jargon, clichés, or grammar mistakes that can weaken your professional image.

What is a LinkedIn summary?

A LinkedIn summary is the text in the “About” section below your profile picture and headline and summarizes your experience and skills in under 2600 characters. This section is also known as the LinkedIn bio.

Source

While this is a great place to help people understand who you are and what you do, don’t copy-paste your resume and call it a day. Your summary is as much about your experience as it is about your personality. It should capture attention quickly and compel people to want to learn more.

Showcase your professional journey and most relevant skills in a new way, one that paints a bigger picture and can make it easier for potential connections to foster a relationship. Take it as an opportunity to add things that can’t be found in your resume or the Experience section of your account. 

What are the benefits of a good LinkedIn summary?

A good LinkedIn summary can lead to more connections, clients, and even a successful job search. It’s the part of your profile where you have the most freedom to write about yourself and your experience and aspirations, so making the best of it can differentiate between a good and a bad LinkedIn presence.

Here are three benefits of a good LinkedIn summary:

  1. You can give people an overview of your professional story.
  2. It’s the one place on your LinkedIn where you can show your personality.
  3. You can add keywords and improve your ranking in search results.

How to add a LinkedIn summary to your account

To add a summary to your LinkedIn profile, you have to find and edit the “About” section. To do so, sign in to your LinkedIn account and go to your profile page. Click on “Add profile section.”

You will find various section options, but the one we are interested in right now is the first one on the list. Tap “Add about.”

This will open the “Edit about” box where you can write your summary. For those with Sales Navigator, you can even get AI suggestions on how to improve your description. At the bottom, there is also a place to add your skills which you shouldn’t hesitate to use.

When you’re happy with what you’ve written, click Save and your summary will be added to your account.

Tips for writing an effective LinkedIn summary

To write an effective LinkedIn summary, you have to capture attention from the very beginning and know how to maintain it throughout, leading to an action at the end. 

Here are seven tips for writing an effective LinkedIn summary:

  1. Hook your readers from the beginning
  2. Use storytelling
  3. Include keywords
  4. Keep it short
  5. Add a CTA
  6. Mention your expertise
  7. Add numbers and data

1. Hook your readers from the beginning

While your “About” section can be up to 2600 characters, only around 200 characters will be visible before users have to click “See more.” If you want that button to tempt them, then your opening has to be strong and eye-catching.

That isn’t an invitation to go overboard to the point where you come off as obnoxious. LinkedIn is, after all, a place for professionals, and your purpose is to appeal to thought leaders, clients, and hiring managers. 

You can hook your profile visitors by making a claim so unusual that it would only make sense if people read the rest of the context. Or, your first sentence can start a story that will only get its resolution if people reach the end of your summary. 

Here are three hook examples:

  1. Unexpected claim: “I got my dream job because of a terrible mistake. Let me explain.”
  2. Story-driven opener: “Two years ago, I walked into a meeting thinking I was about to close the biggest deal of my career. Five minutes later, I realized I had made a huge miscalculation. What happened next changed everything.”
  3. Thought-provoking question: “What if I told you that the best career advice I ever received was to stop following my passion?”

2. Use storytelling

Your “About” section is one of the few creative places on your profile, so you can play with the way you present your professional life. 

Instead of rattling off job titles and skills that you’ll list on your profile anyway, take readers on a journey that connects the dots between where you started, what drives you, and where you’re headed. 

Here’s how Desiree Thompson did it:

Maybe you changed careers after an unexpected opportunity, or perhaps a single project shaped your entire professional philosophy. Whatever the case, storytelling gives your summary a natural flow and keeps people reading. 

3. Include keywords

Your summary is one of the elements of your profile that determines how your profile ranks in search results. Including relevant keywords, just like you would in a LinkedIn article or post, can impact how many users actually get the chance to read your summary and take action.

But, just like with any SEO task, the quality of your text is just as important, so this isn’t an invitation to start keyword stuffing and ignoring the natural flow of the text. Balance is always key. Include keywords that could help you rank, but remember that it’s your actual description that keeps people reading.

For example, if you work in digital marketing, you could include keywords like “marketing strategy”, “social media strategy”, or “pay-per-click” in your summary.

4. Keep it short

Your LinkedIn summary should only be as long as it needs to be to get your story across successfully. Fluff and repetitions will get you nowhere with prospects of potential employers. On the contrary, they might lead them to lose interest and move on to another account.

John Thornton gives us a great example of how a short bio can be very impactful:

To avoid rambling and saying little and too many words, begin by writing an outline for your summary. Make sure you know exactly what you want to include in it and get a general idea of what its structure will be. This way, you won’t lose yourself in unnecessary details during the write-up.

5. Add a CTA

If someone reaches the end of your summary, then they have enough interest in you to dedicate their time to learning about you. Don’t let the opportunity go to waste. Add a call-to-action that will prompt users to take action, whether it’s sending a message, an invitation to connect, or purchasing your services.

George Chasiotis gave a comprehensive list of how the reader can take the next step and work with him:

Here’s an example a freelance social media manager might use to grow their client base:

“Ready to take your brand’s social media presence to the next level? Let’s connect! Whether you need a strategy that drives engagement, content that converts, or hands-on management to free up your time, I’m here to help.

📩 Email: [Your Email]
💬 DM me on LinkedIn or [Your Preferred Platform]
🌐 Portfolio: [Your Website or Link]

Send me a message, and let’s chat about how we can grow your brand together!”

6. Mention your expertise

Your professional accomplishments can be varied, but you aren’t an expert in everything. We all have a few things that we excel at, or that we have perfected ourselves in. Those are the things that should take center stage in your summary.

Think about what sets you apart in your field. Maybe you’re a social media strategist who has mastered viral content creation, a content marketer known for crafting high-converting copy, or a PPC specialist with a track record of driving impressive ROAS.

Whatever your niche, make it clear so the right people can recognize your value.

7. Add numbers and data

Instead of just saying you’re great at what you do, show it with measurable results. Showing real numbers will improve your credibility and therefore the impact on readers.

Here’s how Rachel Higgins included numbers in her summary:

Did you reduce operational costs by 30%? Improve project delivery times by 20%? Manage a team that completed 50+ successful projects? These details make your achievements tangible.

What to avoid adding to your LinkedIn summary

We’ve looked at the good, now let’s look at the bad. There are certain things that can hurt rather than help the effectiveness of your LinkedIn summary.

Here are five things to avoid adding to your LinkedIn summary:

  1. Your entire CV
  2. Too many personal details
  3. Professional jargon
  4. Cliches
  5. Grammar mistakes

1. Your entire CV

Your LinkedIn profile already has your past and present job descriptions in the “Experience” section. Bring something new to the table that can’t already be found in other parts of your profile or in your CV. 

2. Too many personal details

While mentioning parts of your personal story can help you relate to others, LinkedIn is a place for professional connections. Don’t get lost in your life story to the detriment of your professional background. This is meant to be an elevator pitch for potential clients or employers.

3. Professional jargon

Even if the people you want to attract have the same level of knowledge as you in your field, jargon-y text isn’t entertaining to anyone.

People will have plenty of time to learn the depth of your technical expertise when they review your experience and CV. Your summary is the place for a bit more of a creative approach.

4. Cliches

Don’t fill your summary with buzzwords that just sound good but have no substance. Chances are, readers will be more inclined to believe you aren’t the things you claim to be. Show through examples and stories rather than just telling.

Here are a few cliches highlighted in a summary that, at the end of the day, doesn’t say anything about a person’s true professional history:

Passionate and results-driven professional with a proven track record of success in [industry]. A highly motivated self-starter, I thrive in fast-paced environments and excel at leveraging my strong communication and problem-solving skills to drive business growth.

I am a dedicated team player with a keen eye for detail, always eager to take on new challenges and deliver innovative solutions.

5. Grammar mistakes

There is nothing more unprofessional than a summary that wasn’t proofread. It would be a waste to write an engaging story of your career journey, give it all the right elements, but have people get distracted by a missing comma or apostrophe that sticks out like an eyesore.

5 great LinkedIn summary examples

There is only so much you can learn from theory alone. To fully grasp what makes a good LinkedIn summary, let’s look at a few real examples.

1. Katrina O., Software Architect/Lead Developer

Katrina starts off strong with her summary and doesn’t lose our attention until the end. Her story keeps you hooked until the end while clearly showing you why she is the best at what she does.

Why this summary works

  • The opening line is intriguing and unexpected, grabbing attention right away and making people want to read more.
  • It tells a compelling story about career transition, making the summary feel personal and memorable rather than just a list of skills.
  • It balances personality with expertise, showing enthusiasm for coding while also clearly outlining technical skills and specialties.

2. Ashley Walton, Fractional Content Leader

This summary doesn’t focus on the personal side, but that doesn’t make it any less effective. Ashley excels at showing exactly where she shines in her area of expertise, with clear examples and results.

Why this summary works

  • The opening line gets straight to the point and includes a link, making it easy for people to learn more right away.
  • It uses numbers to back up achievements, showing real results instead of just making claims.
  • The summary is well-structured, giving a mix of experience, skills, and major career highlights without feeling overwhelming.

3. Fernando Parada, Technical Sourcing & Recruiting Professional

Fernando’s job is to work with people, so he knows the value of making yourself likable and approachable. That is why the friendly tone of voice makes for a powerful LinkedIn summary.

Why this summary works

  • The tone is conversational and human, making it easy to connect with and showing that the writer genuinely cares about people.
  • It highlights key values like transparency and advocacy, which helps build trust with potential job candidates.
  • The personal details at the end make the profile feel authentic and relatable, giving a glimpse into who they are beyond their work.

4. Raphael Parker, Early-Stage Sales/Marketing Consulting

Yes, we did really mean it when we said shorter is better. Raphael says all he needs to say in only a few sentences, and he does so in an entertaining and unique way.

Why this summary works

  • The playful and unconventional opening grabs attention right away, making the reader curious about their unique career journey.
  • It showcases a diverse and well-rounded background without feeling like a formal resume, making it more engaging.
  • The closing section keeps it personal and relaxed while still clearly stating what they do now, making it easy for potential connections to understand their focus.

5. Karen Abbate, Former SVP, Creative Director

Karen is brutally honest from the very beginning by telling us she hates selling herself. That doesn’t stop her, however, from continuing with an amazing LinkedIn summary section. 

Why this summary works

  • The opening is honest and self-aware, making it feel natural and engaging rather than overly polished or salesy.
  • The numbered format keeps it concise and easy to skim, making sure key points stand out without overwhelming the reader.
  • It mixes professional achievements with personal moments, making the writer more relatable while still showing expertise and passion for their work.

PRO TIP

Another thing that all successful LinkedIn users have in common is their incredible content strategy. To keep people engaged and returning to your profile, you need to create a good mix of entertaining and educational posts that add value.

Use SocialBee’s Content Categories to mix up your content and bulk schedule it. Not only will you save time, but you’ll have the tools you need to craft a strategy that drives results.

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LinkedIn summary templates to get you started

Now it’s your turn to write your LinkedIn summary. Need extra help? You can take the following templates and adapt them according to your academic and professional experiences.

LinkedIn summary for businesses

[Hook]
At [Business Name], we don’t just [service/product you provide], we help [target audience] achieve [specific benefit].

[What You Do]
With [X years] of experience in [industry], we specialize in [core services], delivering [specific results, e.g., increased conversions, streamlined operations, higher engagement]. Our approach is built on [key differentiator, e.g., data-driven strategies, personalized solutions, customer-first mindset].

[Proof of Success]
We’ve worked with brands like [notable clients or industries], helping them achieve [specific outcome, e.g., 200% ROI, 50% faster turnaround, industry recognition].

[Call to Action]
Looking to [solve a problem your business addresses]? Let’s connect!
📩 Email: [Your Email]
🌐 Website: [Your Website]
💬 Message me here on LinkedIn.

LinkedIn summary for thought leaders

[Hook]
I believe that [bold statement about your industry or expertise]. That’s what drives my work in [field].

[Experience & Impact]
With [X years] of experience in [industry], I’ve helped [companies, individuals, or teams] navigate [key challenges] by [your expertise]. My focus is on [core principles, e.g., innovation, growth, strategic transformation].

I share insights on [topic] through [public speaking, articles, mentorship, consulting]. My work has been featured in [publications, conferences, or media], and I actively engage with professionals looking to challenge the status quo in [industry].

[Call to Action]
If you’re passionate about [industry topic] or looking for insights on [specific expertise], let’s connect. I’d love to exchange ideas and collaborate on projects that push the industry forward.

LinkedIn summary for job seekers

[Hook]
I love solving [industry-specific problem]—it’s what led me to pursue a career in [field].

[Skills & Experience]
With [X years] of experience in [industry or role], I’ve developed expertise in [key skills]. In my last role at [Company Name], I [key achievement, e.g., increased efficiency by X%, led a successful project, improved processes]. I’m passionate about [specific interest in your field] and always eager to take on new challenges.

[What You’re Looking For]
I’m currently seeking opportunities in [target roles/industry] where I can apply my skills in [key areas] and contribute to [company goals]. I’m especially interested in roles that involve [specific job aspects you love, e.g., strategy, hands-on problem-solving, innovation].

[Call to Action]
If you’re hiring for [target roles] or just want to chat about [industry topic], feel free to connect! I’d love to explore opportunities and discuss how I can contribute to your team.

LinkedIn summary for students

[Hook]
I’m a [your major/field] student with a passion for [specific interest]. My goal is to [career aspiration or what you hope to achieve].

[What You’re Learning & Working On]
Currently studying at [University], I’ve gained experience in [relevant coursework, projects, or internships]. I’ve worked on [specific projects or achievements], where I developed skills in [key skills like problem-solving, teamwork, technical abilities].

Outside of academics, I [any relevant extracurriculars, e.g., research, clubs, personal projects], allowing me to apply what I’ve learned in real-world settings.

[What You’re Looking For]
I’m looking for opportunities in [internships, entry-level roles, mentorship] where I can grow my skills in [industry area]. I’m especially interested in [specific topics or industries] and excited to learn from professionals in the field.

[Call to Action]
If you’re open to sharing insights or have opportunities for students in [field], I’d love to connect! Let’s chat.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I make my LinkedIn profile catchy?

To make your LinkedIn profile stand out, focus on clarity, personality, and value

Here’s how:

  • Craft a strong headline – Instead of just listing your job title, highlight what you do and who you help (e.g., Helping B2B brands scale through data-driven marketing).
  • Write a compelling summary – Start with a hook, share your expertise, and add a call to action. Keep it conversational yet professional.
  • Use a high-quality profile picture and banner – A clear, professional photo makes you more approachable, while a well-designed banner reinforces your personal brand.
  • Showcase results, not just responsibilities – Use numbers and real achievements in your experience section.
  • Add featured content – Share posts, articles, or portfolio work to demonstrate your expertise.
2. Should I post the same content on every social media platform?

Your LinkedIn summary can be up to 2,600 characters, but that doesn’t mean you need to use all of them.

The best summaries are concise, engaging, and easy to skim, ideally 2-4 short paragraphs or 150-300 words. Focus on capturing attention quickly, sharing your key strengths, and ending with a call to action.

3. How do I optimize my LinkedIn summary?

To optimize your LinkedIn summary, focus on making it searchable, engaging, and action-driven. Start by naturally incorporating relevant keywords that reflect your industry and expertise, as this helps your profile appear in search results. 

Your opening lines are crucial since only the first few sentences are visible before users click “See more,” so make sure they’re compelling and spark curiosity. Instead of listing generic skills, highlight specific achievements with data to showcase real impact. 

Keep the tone professional yet conversational, avoiding unnecessary jargon that might make your summary harder to read. Finally, wrap it up with a clear call to action, whether it’s inviting people to connect, check out your work, or reach out for opportunities.

Enhance your LinkedIn profile with a summary that stands out

We’ve taken a look at how to write a good LinkedIn summary, examples of the best LinkedIn profile summaries out there, and a few templates you can adapt and add to your account. The only thing left is for you to open the app, add that “About” section, and improve your LinkedIn presence.

Once your profile has all the elements it needs, from professional profile and cover photos to a great description and a detailed experience section, all that’s left is to create a content strategy that will boost your visibility and influence.

With SocialBee, you can create, schedule, post, and analyze your LinkedIn content from one place. This means less time invested with better results. Start your 14-day free trial today!

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Alexandra

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