LinkedIn is constantly rolling out new features, and if you’re anything like me, you get that “shiny object syndrome” whenever something new pops up. But not every feature is worth your time. Some can supercharge your content and workflow, while others might just be a flashy distraction.
This week, we’re taking a closer look at one of LinkedIn’s newest tools: the rotating profile banner. It’s a feature that allows users with premium accounts to display a slideshow of images in their banner space. Sounds cool, right? But is it actually useful, or just another time sink?
The Rotating Banner: A Missed Opportunity?
I recently got a message from someone showing off their rotating banner. I’ll admit, I didn’t even know it existed! When I finally saw it in action, I noticed that the banner slowly cycled through different images, offering more opportunities to display information.
On the surface, it seems like a valuable piece of advertising space.
But here’s the problem: Most people don’t spend time looking at your banner. They glance at it for a split second and then scroll down to the parts that matter – your featured section, your about section, and your recommendations.
Think back to the video profile feature LinkedIn introduced a couple of years ago. It gave users a 30-second slot to introduce themselves via video. Sounds great, right? But it flopped. Instead of adding value, people spammed viewers with sales pitches, and LinkedIn quietly dropped it. The rotating banner feels a lot like that.
Cool in theory, but in practice? Not so much.
If you want to optimise your profile, focus on sections that people actually engage with. Your featured posts, your recommendations, and your about section are where real connections are made.
New Features Worth Your Time
Not all new LinkedIn tools are duds. LinkedIn’s recent push for vertical video reels, for instance, is worth exploring. With video content getting higher engagement rates, these reels can make your profile stand out – if you use them strategically.
Before you dive into any new feature, ask yourself:
Does this help me connect with my ideal clients?
Will this improve my workflow or add unnecessary complexity?
Is this a feature my audience actually uses or cares about?
If the answer is yes, go for it! If not, skip it and focus on what works.
Remember, efficiency is key.
🎶 Why Sound Matters More Than You Think! 🎶
In the latest episode of MarketPulse: Pros & Pioneers Podcast, we dive into the world of sonic branding with George Holliday 🔊 , co-founder of Hear Me Out. George’s story is fascinating—from touring with Lionel Richie to co-creating an agency that specialises in branding through sound. He’ll explain why sound could be your brand’s most powerful tool for emotional connection and customer recall.
Tune in to discover how audio can enhance your marketing efforts, create stronger customer loyalty, and set your brand apart from the competition. If you’ve never thought about the importance of sound, this episode will definitely change your mind!
If you want to hear the challenges and wins other business owners face in marketing their business, or the expert advice of industry leaders and marketing experts, then you should probably catch MarketPulse: Pros & Pioneers Podcast!
You can find us on all good podcast directories, and on YouTube
Beware of the Shiny Object Syndrome
I get it. New tools are exciting. I’ve fallen into the trap myself. But not every new feature is worth the time it takes to learn, test, and implement. Sometimes, sticking with tried-and-true strategies is the smartest move.
For example, if you’re spending hours designing new banners for LinkedIn’s rotating feature, ask yourself if that time could be better spent writing a killer post or creating a video your audience will love.
The likelihood is, most visitors to your profile won’t look at your banner for more than a split second, so the time spent on creating those extra slides will probably just go to waste!
If the feature doesn’t serve your business goals, it’s okay to ignore it.
Your Action Plan for This Week
Audit Your LinkedIn Profile: Is your banner optimised with clear, relevant messaging? If you’re considering the rotating banner, ask yourself if it adds real value.
Focus on What Works: Update your featured section, refine your about section, and collect fresh recommendations.
Evaluate New Tools: Before adopting a new feature, consider if it helps you connect with your audience or streamlines your workflow.
Remember, LinkedIn is a tool – and like any tool, it’s only as effective as how you use it. Don’t let the shiny new stuff distract you from what truly matters: building genuine connections and sharing valuable content.
