How to Add Credentials to Your Name on LinkedIn

It might make sense for you to add credentials to your name on Linked. If you believe they will achieve either of the following benefits, then go for it.

1. Make you rank higher in LinkedIn search results because a given credential is also a keyword.
2. Make recruiters more likely to click on your profile.

What LinkedIn Allows in Your Name Fields

Regardless of what you might read to the contrary, LinkedIn does allow you to use suffixes and certifications in your profile’s last name field. Click the link to see exactly what LinkedIn says about names and credentials.

Which Credentials?

After you’re convinced it’s OK to use credentials after your name, then you need to choose which ones to use. It’s smart for you to show credentials relevant to your current career.

When you do, you get two benefits (as noted above):

1. A LinkedIn SEO boost.
2. You make an immediate, credible impression.

(Note: It’s a good idea to match these credentials to those you feature on your resume.)

How to Use Your Last Name Field for Credentials

How to place your credentials after your last name:

1. Enter your last name in the last name field.
2. Followed by a comma and a space.
3. Followed by your credentials separated with a comma.

As on your resume, I recommend limiting yourself to two credentials after your name. Beyond my counsel, LinkedIn recently limited the number of characters you can use in your last name field, so it’s hard to go too wild.

More Places to Share Credentials on Your LinkedIn Profile

You can also use the summary, education, licenses & certifications, and skills sections of your profile to showcase your credentials.

Overall, don’t try too hard. Many people overshare. As noted above, limit yourself to credentials that are relevant to your current aspirations. If you think you might be going too far, ask a respected colleague or two for their input.

Let’s Connect on LinkedIn

Please don’t hesitate to invite me to connect on LinkedIn here: Donna Svei, Executive Resume Writer. The more I know about my readers, the better I can make my blog.

Image: Fotolia/ChenCG
Updated April 2019

© 2013 – 2019, Donna Svei. All rights reserved.

Donna Svei

Donna Svei, an executive resume writer and former C-level executive, retained search consultant, and CPA, writes all of AvidCareerist’s posts. She has written for and been quoted by leading business, general, and career media outlets, including Forbes, Mashable, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, Lifehacker, Ask.com, Social Media Today, IT World, SmartBrief, Payscale, Business News Daily, and the Muse. Let her background and experience inform your job search strategy and decision making.

Learn more about Donna’s executive resume writing service or email Donna for more information.