A LinkedIn handle is a personalized web address that directs people directly to your public professional profile. It streamlines how your digital presence is shared and discovered by potential employers, clients, or collaborators. This article explains the nature of this custom web address, details its importance in professional networking, and provides the steps required to create or modify it.
Defining the LinkedIn Handle
The LinkedIn handle is formally known as the Public Profile URL, often referred to by users as a vanity URL. This custom address serves as the unique web link that points specifically to your public-facing LinkedIn profile page. By default, when a user creates a new account, LinkedIn assigns a generic URL composed of the site address followed by a mix of your name and a sequence of random numbers and letters.
This default address is cumbersome to share and difficult for search engines to process efficiently. A personalized handle replaces that disorganized string with a clean, memorable, and professional structure, typically following the format `linkedin.com/in/yourcustomname`. Defining this handle simplifies the link, making it easily recognizable and immediately associated with your professional identity.
Why a Custom Handle is Essential for Professional Branding
A customized public profile URL plays a role in improving how your professional profile is discovered across the internet. When your handle includes your actual name, search engines like Google can easily associate your profile with your personal brand, often resulting in your LinkedIn page appearing higher in search results. This optimization makes it simpler for recruiters and hiring managers to find your credentials.
Using a custom handle adds polish and credibility whenever you share your professional details. A personalized link looks better than a default alphanumeric string when placed on a business card or included in a professional email signature. This consistency helps maintain a unified brand image across all communications.
A uniform handle across various social and professional platforms strengthens your digital footprint. When your LinkedIn, Twitter, and personal website links share a similar naming convention, it makes it easier for industry contacts to verify your identity and connect across different channels. This professional cohesion reinforces your reputation and demonstrates attention to detail.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating or Changing Your Handle
The process for modifying your LinkedIn handle is managed through the public profile settings, which are most easily accessed on the desktop version of the site.
Accessing Settings
Begin by navigating to your own profile page. Once there, locate the box on the upper right side of the screen titled “Edit public profile & URL.” Clicking this setting redirects you to a new page dedicated to managing your public visibility and URL.
Modifying the URL
On this page, look for the section labeled “Edit your custom URL” and click the pencil icon next to your current profile link. This action opens a text field where you can input your desired new handle.
Finalizing the Change
After entering the preferred sequence of letters, verify the availability of the new handle, as each one must be unique across the entire platform. Once confirmed, select the “Save” button to finalize the change. LinkedIn will immediately update your profile, and your new web address will become active.
Best Practices for Choosing Your Custom Handle
When selecting your custom URL, the most effective strategy is to use your full, real name to maximize searchability and professionalism. The preferred format is typically a simple combination of your first name and last name, such as “john-smith” or “jane-doe.” This straightforward approach ensures your link is immediately recognizable and clearly associated with you.
Keep the handle concise, as LinkedIn limits the URL to between 5 and 30 characters. The platform only allows the use of letters, numbers, and the hyphen as the sole special character. Avoid using numbers or hyphens unless your preferred name combination is already in use by another member.
If your desired name combination is already taken, a simple modification is better than a complex one. Consider adding a middle initial or a relevant professional credential to the end of the name to achieve uniqueness while maintaining a professional appearance. The handle must be unique across the entire LinkedIn membership.