[FAQ]

I’ve been noticing the little audio icon next to some people’s names on LinkedIn that lets you hear their name pronunciation. While its main purpose is obvious, it got me thinking: are there more creative ways to use that 10-second audio clip?

Has anyone seen or used this feature effectively for more than just saying your name? I’m wondering if it could be used as a micro elevator pitch, to state a value proposition, or just to show a bit more personality.

[Jeff Bullas]

While the primary function of the name pronunciation feature on LinkedIn is to promote inclusivity and respect by helping others say your name correctly, you are right that its 10-second audio clip can be used creatively to make a more memorable first impression.

The key is to be concise and to ensure you still fulfill the feature’s main purpose. Here are a few effective ways to use it beyond just stating your name.

First, you can state your name and follow it with a very short tagline or value proposition. This is perhaps the most common and effective creative use. After clearly pronouncing your name, you could add a brief, impactful phrase that defines what you do. For example, “Sarah Chen, and I help technology companies with their global marketing strategy.”

Second, you could include a friendly greeting and highlight a key skill. This can make your profile feel more welcoming. For instance, you could say, “Hi there, my name is David Jones. I specialise in project management for software development teams.” This adds a touch of warmth and immediately reinforces your expertise.

Third, if you are job seeking, you can subtly signal that you are open to new opportunities. After pronouncing your name, a simple addition like, “I’m a graphic designer currently exploring new roles in the gaming industry,” can be an effective and professional way to communicate your status to recruiters visiting your profile.

Regardless of the creative approach you take, there are a few important practices to follow. You must always state your name clearly at the beginning of the recording. The feature’s main purpose is pronunciation, and failing to do this will only cause confusion. You must also be extremely brief with any additional message, as you only have 10 seconds in total. It is a good idea to write a short script and practise it to ensure it fits comfortably within the time limit. Finally, ensure your audio quality is clear by recording in a quiet space, free from background noise.

In summary, the name pronunciation feature is a small but unique opportunity to add personality and a clear value statement to your profile. By adding a concise tagline or a friendly greeting after clearly stating your name, you can make your profile more memorable and approachable.

[Author]

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