
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:
PDF presentation of Vicki’s recommendations and LinkedIn changes
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
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.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Dr. Stein. Your point about the stress of the “ever changing” work world is so important. Gosh, yes. Can’t wait to see your post tomorrow. 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
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
LikeLiked by 1 person
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! 🥰😉🥰
LikeLike
We can start our own circus? You in? If not a circus, how about Professional Juggling or a chef on a busy food truck? Or a lion tamer. We could handle those jobs right?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ummmm…did you just say FOOD TRUCK?? I’m in! I’m in! 🥰🤣🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s my threat after a tough day. It couldn’t be that tough could it? 🤣🤣🤣
LikeLiked by 1 person
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…😜
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh yea, we need Wynne too. She’ll figure out the important stuff like how we become a food truck empire, travel around the world, and have off 24/7!!!!😎🤣🤣🤣🤣
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love it. I can almost see the face she’ll make when she reads our rambling thoughts. Herding cats…working with Brian and Vicki…the yahoos! 🤣💕🤣
LikeLiked by 1 person
You two are hilarious! No one I would rather be in the circus with!! 🙂 ❤ ❤ ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yay! 🥰❤️🥰
LikeLike
Oh goodness, this sounds really helpful! And it looks to be an episode to not only listen, but watch as you guys show slides. And I’ll certainly watch this 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Dave! 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
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
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Beth. Terrific point about first impressions. Especially in a digital, online world. 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
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! ❤ ❤ ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are too kind. Happy to share some thoughts to help you! ❤️🥰❤️ You’re a superstar!
LikeLike
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 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so kind, Nancy. I think you’re spot on. Confidence-building…a great point! 🥰 Agree!
LikeLiked by 1 person
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.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for that — agree with you about LinkedIn. Yes! Appreciate you, Alegria. 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
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!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I love that those two aspects resonated for you, Ab! Thank you so much for tuning in! 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person