Beginner8 min read15 steps

How to Write a LinkedIn Headline (Complete 2026 Guide)

Your LinkedIn headline is the most-read line on your entire profile. Here is exactly how to write one that gets you noticed.

220characters — the maximum LinkedIn headline length
5xmore profile views with an optimized headline vs the default job title
1stthing recruiters read after your name on LinkedIn
40%of LinkedIn users never change their headline from the default job title

What you'll learn

  • Why your LinkedIn headline is the most important line on your profile
  • The 3 headline formulas that work for any role or career stage
  • Specific examples for job seekers, freelancers, founders, and executives
  • Which keywords to include for LinkedIn search visibility
  • What NOT to put in your headline (common mistakes)

Your headline appears next to your name in search results, connection requests, comments, and post bylines. It is the most-seen line on LinkedIn.

1

It appears everywhere on LinkedIn

Your headline shows in search results, 'People You May Know', post bylines, comment sections, and notifications. Every time you interact on LinkedIn, your headline is visible. Most people treat it as an afterthought.

Tactic

Think of your headline as a micro ad — it has to communicate value in under 10 words.

2

It is a primary LinkedIn search signal

LinkedIn's algorithm uses your headline as a key ranking signal. When a recruiter searches for 'UX designer fintech' or a buyer searches for 'Salesforce consultant', LinkedIn matches against headlines first.

Tactic

Include the exact words your target audience types when searching for someone with your skills.

Avoid

Don't use vague terms like 'strategic leader' or 'passionate professional' — no one searches for those.

3

You have 220 characters — use them

LinkedIn increased the headline limit to 220 characters. Most people use fewer than 60. The additional characters are free space to include keywords, your value prop, and a CTA.

Avoid

Don't truncate to your job title and company. You're wasting 160+ characters of searchable, visible real estate.

Key takeaways

  • 1

    Your LinkedIn headline is the most-read line on your profile — treat it as a searchable ad, not just a job title

  • 2

    Use 150–200 of the 220 available characters to include keywords, your value prop, and a CTA

  • 3

    Job seekers should use the keyword stack formula; freelancers and founders should use the value proposition formula

  • 4

    Put your strongest keyword or credential in the first 60 characters — that's what mobile users see

  • 5

    Avoid vague adjectives — include specific skills, tools, industries, and outcomes that people actually search for

Frequently asked questions