With more than 2m members in Ireland, LinkedIn has become an essential networking tool for Irish professionals, but some are better at using it than others.

Perhaps you haven't logged on in a while and your page is in need of a refit? Or maybe you're trying to make the most of the site, but you're unsure how? Here are seven ways for individual users to improve their LinkedIn profile.

1. Optimise your profile

A LinkedIn profile that is appealing to employers, clients or colleagues will feature a professional profile image, a headline that summarises your skills and expertise, and a succinct summary of your achievements, work experience and educational qualifications.

A professional profile picture and banner image will increase views and interest in your profile. Similarly, a well-done headline and about section reflecting your values and professional progression will act as an effective showcase for you.

When filling out your professional and academic qualifications, be sure to include company names, relevant dates and achievements.

If you were to go the extra mile, you could also create additional profile sections for publications, courses, projects, languages, patents, awards and honours if applicable.

It's also important to use keywords relevant to your industry to ensure your profile will appear in searches.

2. Engage with your connections and expand your network

Engaging with your connections on LinkedIn is a tried and tested way of not only building professional relationships but also increasing your profile visibility.

It's a virtuous circle that will facilitate connections and deeper trust with new contacts.

You can engage your network by liking, commenting and sharing content that is relevant to your field and interests, and you can also participate in discussions in LinkedIn groups or by starting your own conversations.

Engaging your network allows you to stay up to date with your interests and will put you on the radar with helpful connections.

3. Publish thought leadership content

By writing and publishing original content on subjects within your expertise, you can generate interest and provide value to your network while becoming a trusted authority in your field.

Sharing tips and insights, case studies or even just opinions on your industry will set you out as a thought leader in your space, helping you attract followers and, again, boost your visibility.

It's important, however, to format your content well and keep it concise, augment it with high-quality images and give your posts the best chance of being read widely by using hashtags, choosing optimal times for sharing, and posting frequently.

4. Ask for recommendations

You can build credibility and demonstrate your skills by asking former employers, colleagues and clients to write recommendations or give endorsements that highlight your credentials and experience.

Recommendations can also help you to stand out when applying for jobs, but make sure to reciprocate and write recommendations for others too.

5. Follow companies and influencers

Stay informed and connected by following relevant companies and influencers.

By following companies, you will receive updates on their latest news as well as events and potential job openings.

By following influencers, you'll receive insights from experts and thought leaders in your field and gain a broader range of perspectives, and you can also engage and build relationships with them,

6. Be consistent

Many have a tendency to not use LinkedIn or leave their account dormant for long periods of time, so consistency is key to building a strong presence on the site.

Aim to post, engage and update your profile regularly so that your network is regularly aware of you and engaging with your content. Using third-party tools to schedule posts and save time if it is too much of an imposition.

By being consistent, you show your followers that you are engaged and invested in your professional development.

7. Attend LinkedIn events

Attending LinkedIn events consolidates the work you have been doing online by bringing it into the real world, helping to deepen the connections you have made.

LinkedIn hosts events including workshops, webinars and conferences that are designed to help professionals learn and network, but they are also an opportunity to connect in person with connections, clients and like-minded people outside your network.

(Pic: Getty Images)