Episode 87: LinkedIn Tweaks for Authors with Dr. Vicki Atkinson

Wynne and I had a great chat this week, one that we’ve been noodling on for a while. As writers who have other careers in engineering, business, entrepreneurship, technology, counseling and higher education – crafting a snapshot identity for a compelling LinkedIn profile is no small task. Especially when we’re in pivot mode. Leaning into new ventures, exploring fulfilling opportunities.

One of my treasured occupations is that of career counselor and I’ve written about my love of helping others, especially career changers, job seekers, new grads and those engaged in wholesale career pivots. Clients who’ve successfully navigated out of one livelihood and into another.

Sometimes with clear distinctions…start and end dates. But not always.

Increasingly, clients and former students are juggling existing jobs along with new opportunities. Exploring, expanding, growing. Heeding advice, perhaps, from Mary Oliver about our precious lives. Bravely pursuing career and life satisfaction.

Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?

A common denominator in success? In addition to courage? Cohesion, friends. Cohesion. Making sure one’s online presence is compelling and, yes. Cohesive. Especially on platforms liked LinkedIn.

Join us as we peel back the curtain to look at career guidance for writers using the talented Wynne Leon as an example. The daunting task of updating our digital presence needn’t be overwhelming.

Vicki and Wynne 😊

Search (and subscribe!) for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Apple, Amazon, Spotify or Pocket Casts OR Listen to it from your computer on Anchor: Episode 87: LinkedIn Tweaks for Authors with Dr. Vicki Atkinson

AND subscribe to our YouTube channel to see a video clip of each story: @SharingtheHeartoftheMatter.

Links for this Episode:

HoTM episode 87 transcript

PDF presentation of Vicki’s recommendations and LinkedIn changes

Wynne Leon | LinkedIn

Dr. Victoria Atkinson, Ed.D. | LinkedIn

It’s Never Too Late for Courage – Victoria Ponders

Realizing Potential – Victoria Ponders

Vicki’s book: Surviving Sue

Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith


26 thoughts on “Episode 87: LinkedIn Tweaks for Authors with Dr. Vicki Atkinson

  1. I belong to a generation in which it was still possible to “succeed” (whatever that is) simply by doing your job well, being collegial, and having a good eye for opportunity. “LinkedIn” wasn’t there or wasn’t important. Writing wasn’t yet a job being replaced by machines.

    The interesting times of today have delivered higher stress (check the scientific support for this on my blog post tomorrow night). A career counselor must look at the immediate future of her client and help her anticipate an ever changing job market. Vicki and Wynne are just the guides to take a look at a career world in flux.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. This is good stuff Vicki. I need to find a quiet spot later today and really take in your guy’s message. I’ve found that I really do have to think outside of normal job titles and think about the skills I have and the benefits I can offer others. It’s such a vulnerable experience to think through. On top of all that, I’m still trying to figure out how I want to spend “this one wild and precious life.” There’s so many choices. I really want to runaway and join the circus. If only someone would hire me. Ha, ha

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you, Brian. I think your phrase “thinking outside of job titles” is perfect. A great goal, but harder to do than it sounds. As for the circus, I may not be the one hiring, but there are days…LOL…when I’d join you! 🥰😉🥰

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      1. More LOL’s. Depends. We don’t have to cook and drive at the same time, do we? We’ll need to round up Wynne to see what she can add to our ‘three ring circus’ of a food truck empire. Hmmm…😜

        Liked by 1 person

  3. it’s such and interesting undertaking and one that is important to really think through. how you present yourself is a first and perhaps only, impression you leave on someone

    Liked by 1 person

  4. I love this episode — such good and actionable guidance from you, Vicki! And I got an updated LinkedIn profile from it. How’s that for a huge win? And I know everyone else that watches and listens will get tons of benefit too! Love your incredible experience and wisdom! ❤ ❤ ❤

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Digitally introducing yourself can be a tremendous advantage to someone who is a social basket case during initial encounters. Your suggestions would be very helpful to those who are unsure about how to do it 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  6. Social media often gets a bad rap. Though there is good that comes from it too. LinkedIn is a form of social media and you never know what connections you can build. I am sure all who you’ve helped are grateful for your wisdom.

    Liked by 1 person

  7. I really enjoyed the format of this discussion and I loved that Wynne stepped up as the case study for the topic you were exploring.

    These two points really stuck out at me. That the LinkedIn profile is not a resume but a digital calling card. And that you should also note your aspirations to pivot from where you currently are to where you want to be.

    I’ve avoided creating a LinkedIn profile for years and if I ever do get to doing it, I’ll be sure to revisit this informative conversation!

    Liked by 2 people

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