profile

Information about a user. A "profile" may contain details such as the users' name, hometown, interests, pictures, etc. Profiles are commonly used on social networking Web sites to help people get to know each other.

Here are 5 Ways to Optimize Your Social Media Profiles

If you list your name on your Facebook profile as "Buzzy Bob" or some other silly moniker, who is going to take you seriously? You must use your real first and last names on your networks according to  Miriam Slozberg, author of this listicle!

If you want to attract people to your networks, it is not only recommended but essential to use a clean photograph of yourself as your profile picture. Do not use a cartoon or a picture of a dog, a sunset, or even your kids as your main photo. A lot of people feel self-conscious seeing themselves in their profile photos because they may believe they are too fat or too thin, that their faces are asymmetrical or warty or whatever. However, if people see you are authentic and want to build relationships, they will not notice such details. They want to see and know you.

I cannot stress this enough. Putting your real name and adding your own picture as a profile photo is not sufficient to make your profile stand out. You must fill in your "about me" section. Talk about your background, your experiences, your family life, your interests, your likes and even dislikes. Don't feel you have to get too personal if you are not comfortable with that, just be descriptive and authentic. Remember, those who want to network with you want to know you!

You must also add your educational background and current profession in your profile description. Even if you are not working, no one will care. Friends and subscribers want to know what you do and what kind of schooling you had. And if you are looking for work, definitely add that to your professional area of your profile. Someone out there may have the best opportunity for you.

At a minimum, to indicate an interest in connecting with others, add an active email address, your website(s), and links to your other social networks. It is not essential to add a phone number to your profile, especially if you're uncomfortable doing so. However, if you are serious about growing your networks, it is a good idea. Adding your phone number doesn't necessarily mean anyone will call you. What it does is indicate that you are truly interested in networking.