I receive a lot of questions about the value and use of LinkedIn for career success. And as this “social” medium has become a more important tool for professionals, more people wonder about the impact of their information and behavior on the site.

The LinkedIn “Background Summary” (the narrative at the top of your personal LinkedIn profile) is not a must for career success. But it is a tool that can be used (if used effectively) to enhance your professional brand, marketability and credibility should you elect to use it. The Background Summary provides the LinkedIn user with an opportunity to expand on the basics. A user can leverage this section to provide a detailed narrative on expertise, information on clients, past work projects, awards and the services that s/he provides. So how can this expanded information help your career? Below are a few of the key ways:

Business Development