How to Create a LinkedIn Account Step-by-Step

If you’re asking how to open a LinkedIn account or wondering how to get started on LinkedIn, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, an experienced professional, or someone exploring new job markets, creating a LinkedIn account can open doors.

Related: Professional LinkedIn Writing Services

In this post, we’ll walk you through a LinkedIn new account guide, covering everything from the initial LinkedIn sign up process to crafting a professional profile that recruiters will notice. This step-by-step LinkedIn tutorial is designed for beginners, job seekers, freelancers, and anyone aiming to level up their digital presence.

If you're wondering what it means to sign up for LinkedIn, how to use LinkedIn for job search, or how to build a profile from scratch, we’ll answer it all. By the end, you won’t just know how to register a LinkedIn account—you’ll also be ready to stand out.

Step 1: Go to the LinkedIn Website

Start by visiting www.linkedin.com. Click the “Join now” button, and you’ll be prompted to enter your email address and create a password.

Yes, that’s it. No resume is needed at this point, but you can always upload one later when you’re building your LinkedIn professional profile.

💡 Tip: Use a professional email address for a stronger first impression.

Step 2: Add Basic Personal Details

After clicking “Continue,” LinkedIn will ask for your full name, job title, and location. These initial fields help personalize your feed and ensure you get LinkedIn basics for users such as content suggestions and job alerts based on your industry.

Step 3: Email Verification

A quick but essential step: LinkedIn email verification. You’ll receive a code in your inbox. Enter it to confirm you’re a real person and move forward.

If you're stuck here and thinking “how do I create a LinkedIn profile when I don’t see the email?”—check your spam or junk folder.

Step 4: Add Your Most Recent Job Title

LinkedIn will prompt you to enter your current or most recent position. If you're currently unemployed or a student, select options that best match your career goals.

This is where creating a LinkedIn profile becomes valuable. You’ll start shaping how people view you professionally.

Step 5: Upload a Professional Photo

This part is often underestimated. A clear, smiling headshot with good lighting instantly boosts credibility. Skip selfies and overly filtered images.

Step 6: Write a Compelling Headline

This will appear right under your name, so make it count! Your headline can be your job title, area of expertise, or even a career goal like “Aspiring Data Analyst” or “Digital Marketing Intern Seeking Opportunities.”

Step 7: Customize Your LinkedIn URL

Your default URL may look messy. Click “Edit public profile & URL” to shorten it to something memorable like linkedin.com/in/yourname. It looks better on resumes and business cards.

Step 8: Add Education & Skills

Next, fill out your academic background, certifications, and key skills. Be honest and relevant. These entries help you show up in recruiter searches and boost your LinkedIn profile optimization.

Step 9: Connect With People You Know

Once your profile is set up, start connecting! Add colleagues, classmates, and mentors. The more connections you have, the richer your feed and the more visibility your profile gets.

Step 10: Follow Industry Leaders and Companies

Stay updated by following top professionals, companies, and industry groups. It’ll personalize your feed and expose you to relevant insights.

How to Create a LinkedIn Profile via Desktop

Most professionals still prefer the desktop version when setting up their LinkedIn profile, and for good reason—larger screens, better editing capabilities, and more control over layout.

Here’s how you can do it from your computer:

Visit linkedin.com

Click “Join Now” and begin the LinkedIn registration guide steps.

Use drag-and-drop resume uploads and full profile editing.

Customize your LinkedIn URL.

Use the “Add section” tool to expand your profile.

Pro Tip: The desktop version is perfect for a detailed LinkedIn account setup for professionals or job seekers who want full control over presentation.

Make Your LinkedIn Profile on Phone

On the go? You can also make your LinkedIn profile using your phone with the LinkedIn app for Android or iOS.

Steps:

Download the LinkedIn App

Tap “Join Now”

Enter your email, name, and job title

Verify your email via mobile

Upload a photo and begin adding experience and education

Bonus: The mobile version lets you record name pronunciation and gives instant updates—perfect for staying connected while job hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the process to create a LinkedIn account?

It includes signing up, email verification, profile setup, and customizing your information.

2. Can I create a LinkedIn profile without a resume?

Yes, you can manually input your experience and education during LinkedIn profile setup.

3. Is LinkedIn free to join and use?

Yes. Basic accounts are free and powerful enough for most users.

4. What details are needed to sign up for LinkedIn?

Name, email, password, job title or student status, and location.

5. How long does it take to set up a LinkedIn account?

Under 15 minutes for the basics, but a polished LinkedIn professional profile may take longer.

Final Thoughts:

Now that you know how to create a LinkedIn account step-by-step, including how to do it from desktop or phone, you’re ready to make your professional presence known. Whether you’re registering a new LinkedIn profile or making your first connections, this guide offers everything you need to start with confidence.

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