How to Build a Standout LinkedIn Profile as a Physician

By: Sara Veri + Samantha Creighan, PhD from The Corcoran Collective

🧠 Why LinkedIn Matters for Physicians

Let’s be real—most physicians didn’t go into medicine thinking they’d need a LinkedIn strategy. But in 2025, LinkedIn is more than a digital CV. It’s a powerful tool for building professional visibility, connecting with thought leaders, and opening doors to speaking engagement, research collaborations, and policy influence.

From thought leadership to peer connection, LinkedIn gives you a seat at the table—no extra degrees required. You don’t have to post daily or build a personal brand empire. You just have to show up, thoughtfully and consistently.

🚦 Getting Started

You don’t need a personal brand coach to show up well on LinkedIn. Start with the basics:

• ✅ Upload a clean, current headshot
• ✅ Update your headline to reflect who you are beyond your title
  • Try: “Pulmonologist | Clinical Researcher | Advocate for Equitable Care”
• ✅ Refresh your summary with your passions, areas of expertise, or goals
• ✅ Add specialties, certifications, and publications
• ✅ Follow relevant physicians, organizations, journals, and hospitals

Think of it like building your digital attending badge—one section at a time.

❌ Dos and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Engage thoughtfully with your peers’ posts: this builds your professional visibility and fosters connection.
• Share helpful resources or insights from your specialty: It positions you as a trusted voice in your field, builds credibility with peers, and contributes to the larger medical conversation on LinkedIn.
• Highlight clinical focus, research, or advocacy in your profile: Specifics help others understand your expertise, identify collaboration opportunities, and refer relevant connections or opportunities your way.
• Show personality—medicine is personal: A little authenticity goes a long way. Sharing your human side fosters connection and helps others relate to you as more than just your credentials.

❌ DON’T:

• Just list your job title and log off: A bare-bones profile won’t attract attention—or opportunity. Taking a few extra minutes to personalize your profile helps others understand who you are and what you bring to the table.
• Overshare personal content—it’s still a professional space: Balance is key. While personality matters, too much unrelated content can dilute your professional message and confuse your audience.
• Wait until you “have time” (hint: you never will): Small, consistent engagement beats perfection. If you wait for the perfect moment, you’ll miss the chance to build meaningful connections over time.
• Ignore your inbox—LinkedIn DMs can lead to real opportunities and meaningful connections: Opportunities often start with a single message. Whether it’s a speaking invite, a media request, or a new collaborator, staying responsive keeps doors open.

🗒️ What to Post: The 4-1-1 Rule for Busy Physicians

You don’t need to be a content creator—you just need to be present.

Here’s an easy formula that builds trust and boosts visibility without burning you out:

The 4-1-1 Rule

• 4 posts from others (relevant articles, peer updates, journal pieces)
• 1 repost with your take or commentary
• 1 original post (a patient story, research takeaway, personal reflection)

Content ideas for physicians:

• “What I wish more people understood about [your specialty]”
• Quick thoughts on a new guideline or article
• A behind-the-scenes look at med ed or residency
• “This made me a better doctor this week…”

Authenticity wins. Your voice doesn’t need polish—it just needs to show up.

💬 Building Engagement

Posting is only half the equation. If you want to grow your network ad build community (and visibility), focus on:

• Leaving thoughtful comments on others’ posts
• Asking questions to start real conversations
• Congratulating peers on new roles or publications
• Messaging people you admire—yes, even if you’ve never met

Set a 5-minute weekly timer to scroll, comment, and connect. Over time, these touchpoints create momentum and engagement, which builds relationships. Relationships build trust. Trust builds influence.

🩺 How ACMS Can Help

LinkedIn doesn’t have to feel like self-promotion. It’s about connection, contribution, and conversation—on your terms. Your digital brand doesn’t have to be a solo effort. The Allegheny County Medical Society is your partner in professional growth—on and offline. Contact the ACMS team today if you want help getting started with your LinkedIn profile.