<!--
metadata:
  title: "LinkedIn profile architecture"
  platform: "linkedin"
  objective: "Rules for the visual and structural basics of a LinkedIn profile, including URLs, location SEO, verification, and profile settings."
  status: "draft"
  last_updated: "2026-04-29"
  tags: ["linkedin", "architecture", "seo", "setup"]
  agent_priority: "medium"
-->

# LinkedIn profile architecture

> This file defines the foundational structural settings required for a fully optimized LinkedIn profile, covering URLs, location SEO, and visual hierarchy.

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## 1. Overview

Before writing prose or detailing experience, the profile's underlying structure must be configured correctly. These foundational settings dictate how easily a profile is found via search engines and how it signals technical competence at first glance.

## 2. Structural rules

**Rule:** Claim a custom public URL. Clean your LinkedIn URL to remove the random alphanumeric string appended by default (e.g., change `linkedin.com/in/john-doe-8a3b21` to `linkedin.com/in/johndoe`). This improves SEO indexing and looks professional on a CV.

**Rule:** Earn the Verifications badge. Use LinkedIn's verification tools when eligible. LinkedIn says verified members see 60% more profile views and 50% more engagement on average. Treat verification as a trust and conversion signal, not as proof of a specific ranking boost. At the time of writing, LinkedIn supports identity verification through partners such as CLEAR in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and Persona in many other regions.

**Rule:** Set location and job preferences explicitly. If remote work is a target, configure that through LinkedIn's profile and job-preference settings rather than only mentioning it in free text. Structured settings are more reliable than a headline note.

## 3. Visual and audio hierarchy

**Rule:** Deploy a professional banner with a USP. The banner image is prime real estate. Do not leave it blank or use a generic stock photo. Use a custom design (via Canva or Figma) that displays your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) or a clear Call to Action (CTA).

**Recommendation:** Record the Voice Badge on mobile. Use the LinkedIn mobile app to record the name pronunciation clip if it improves the profile experience. This is optional, but it helps human readers pronounce the name correctly and can make the profile feel more complete.

---

*Next step: Write a high-converting hook in [Headline strategy](./headline-strategy.md).*
