When you apply for a job or connect with someone new on LinkedIn, your headline is often the very first thing they see—right next to your name and photo. It’s your digital elevator pitch, and it can make the difference between getting ignored and getting clicked.
So how do you write a headline that actually grabs attention—and helps you stand out?
Let’s break it down, with 5 proven LinkedIn headline formulas that get results.
Why Your LinkedIn Headline Matters
By default, LinkedIn fills in your headline with your most recent job title. But here’s the problem: “Marketing Manager at XYZ Corp” doesn’t tell anyone what you do well, what kind of role you want next, or what makes you different.
That’s a missed opportunity.
Your headline follows you everywhere on LinkedIn:
- In recruiter searches
- In your connection invites
- In job applications submitted via LinkedIn
- In group discussions and comment threads
And recruiters notice it. According to LinkedIn’s own data, profiles with customized headlines get up to 3x more profile views than those with default headlines. And in a recent Jobscan analysis, keywords in your headline can significantly impact whether your profile shows up in recruiter search results.
What Makes a Great LinkedIn Headline?
Your headline should be:
- Clear – No buzzwords or vague phrases
- Keyword-rich – So recruiters can find you in searches
- Value-driven – Highlight what you bring to the table
- Forward-looking – Reflect your career goals, not just your past
Now let’s get into some formulas that work—and why they do.
1. [Job Title] Helping [Audience] Achieve [Result]
This formula positions you as someone who delivers outcomes—not just does tasks. It’s great for service-oriented roles or anyone who wants to lead with value.
Examples:
- Content Marketer helping B2B brands grow with storytelling & SEO
- Career Coach helping early-career professionals land their first job
Why it works: It’s specific, client- or employer-focused, and easy to understand.
2. [Your Title] | [Specialty or Industry Keywords] | [Biggest Strength or Unique Offer]
Use this if you want to blend credibility (your title) with clarity about what sets you apart.
Examples:
- Data Analyst | SQL, Tableau, Python | Turning messy data into clear business insights
- Customer Success Manager | SaaS & Onboarding Expert | 90%+ Retention Track Record
Why it works: It balances keyword optimization for recruiter searches with a strong personal value prop.
Pro tip: According to LinkedIn Talent Solutions, 94% of recruiters use the platform to search for candidates using job titles and skill keywords—so including both is key.
3. Actively Seeking [Role Type] | [Key Skills or Industry] | Let’s Connect!
Perfect for job seekers who want to show they’re open to new opportunities without sounding desperate.
Examples:
- Actively Seeking Marketing Coordinator Role | Social Media, Email, Events | Let’s Connect!
- Open to Remote Software Engineering Roles | React, Node.js, Agile
Why it works: It’s clear, friendly, and packed with intent—plus, it shows confidence. Recruiters don’t have to guess what you’re looking for.
4. [Previous Title or Identity] Turned [Current Role or Goal] | [Skills or Passion]
This one’s ideal if you’re pivoting careers or trying to rebrand yourself.
Examples:
- Teacher Turned UX Designer | Empathy-Driven Design | Figma, Wireframing, Usability Testing
- Journalist Turned Content Strategist | SEO, Editorial Planning, Brand Voice
Why it works: It tells a story in one line—and humanizes you while highlighting your transferable skills.
According to a 2024 Resume Genius Hiring Trends Survey, 65% of hiring managers are open to hiring candidates based on their skills rather than traditional education or work experience—even if they lack traditional work experience.
5. [Mission Statement or Tagline] + [Relevant Keywords]
This format is great if you want a personal brand vibe—and it works especially well for creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
Examples:
- Building purpose-driven brands that make people feel something | Branding, Copywriting, Storytelling
- Designing clean, human-centered digital experiences | UX/UI, Prototyping, Figma
Why it works: It blends personality and professionalism, which helps you stand out in a sea of same-sounding profiles.
Bonus Tips
✔ Keep it under 220 characters – LinkedIn will cut off your headline if it’s too long. Use vertical bars (|) or commas to separate elements.
✔ Match keywords from job descriptions – Scan a few target roles and pull relevant terms into your headline.
✔ Avoid fluff like “guru,” “ninja,” “rockstar,” or anything that doesn’t translate into a real skill or search term.
✔ Update it regularly – Especially if you’re changing industries, learning new tools, or shifting focus.
Final Thoughts
Your LinkedIn headline is more than just a job title—it’s a first impression. Whether you’re job hunting, networking, or just growing your professional brand, your headline is a key opportunity to show people who you are, what you do, and why they should care.
So try one of these formulas, plug in your strengths, and test it out. A small change could lead to big results—whether that’s more views, more connections, or that recruiter DM that leads to your next big role.
