As a chartered accountant, you have dedicated years of hard work to earn your professional credentials, and it’s important to ensure that your skills and expertise are recognised in the business world. With more than 875 million members worldwide, LinkedIn offers a tremendous opportunity to network with other professionals in your industry, showcase your skills and expertise, and build your reputation as a trusted advisor. The following content ideas can help you use the social media platform to develop your personal brand.

Create a complete profile

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital CV, and it is essential to have a complete profile that showcases your professional experience, education and skills. Use a professional headshot as your profile picture, and make sure that your headline and summary accurately represent your expertise. Don’t be afraid to highlight your accomplishments and awards, as well as your community involvement and volunteer work.

Share relevant and timely content

One way to help establish your credibility and expertise is by sharing relevant and timely content related to your industry and profession. You can share articles, blog posts and even your own thought leadership content – for example, sharing a post on how to navigate tax changes for small business owners or offering advice on managing finances during a pandemic. Be sure to use relevant hashtags and tag other professionals or companies in your posts to increase visibility.

Engage with other professionals

LinkedIn isn’t just about what you post. Engaging with other professionals can help you build relationships and establish your personal brand. Comment on other professionals’ posts, share their content and congratulate them on their accomplishments. You can also participate in LinkedIn polls and surveys and answer questions related to your industry. These actions will help you establish yourself as a thought leader and build your reputation as a trusted advisor.

Create and share original content

Creating and sharing original content can also help establish you as a thought leader in your industry. For example, you could create a video series on common tax issues facing small business owners, or write a blog post on the importance of financial planning. By sharing your insights and knowledge, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field and build a following.

Participate in industry groups

LinkedIn offers groups related to various industries and interests, including accounting and finance. Joining and participating in these groups can help you build your network and establish your personal brand. For example, you could join a group focused on tax planning for small businesses or a group for finance professionals in your area. Engage in conversations and share your insights and expertise.

Use LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers online courses and professional development opportunities that can help you develop your skills and knowledge in your field. Completing courses related to your profession can help establish your expertise and set you apart from other professionals in your field. You can also share your course completion certificates on your LinkedIn profile to showcase your dedication to professional development.

Host webinars or workshops

Hosting webinars or workshops related to your profession can help establish your expertise and build your following on LinkedIn. For example, you could host a workshop on tax planning for small businesses or a webinar on the importance of financial planning for individuals. By providing value to your audience, you can establish yourself as a thought leader and build your reputation as a trusted adviser.

Damilola F Badmus is a personal branding consultant and author of How LinkedIn Works. 

• Search “ICAEW” on LinkedIn to find a group relevant to your area of professional interest, and follow key ICAEW people including Chief Executive Michael Izza to keep up with developments.