The Vanity URL: Why john-doe-98234 is Hurting Your Brand

## The "Lazy" Signal You Didn't Know You Were Sending When a recruiter sees a LinkedIn link like `linkedin.com/in/gary-pine-192834b9`, they don't just see a link. They see someone who hasn't mastered the basics of the platform. It is a subtle signal of **Digital Illiteracy**. Your LinkedIn URL appears on your CV, your email signature, and your business cards. Random numbers say "I signed up and never looked back." A clean URL says "I pay attention to details." ## The Fix: Create Your Vanity URL You can strip those random numbers in seconds. A clean URL (`linkedin.com/in/garypine`) acts as a **micro-headline**. It says you are established, intentional, and detail-oriented. **How to do it:** 1. Go to your LinkedIn Profile 2. Look for "Public profile & URL" (usually top right) 3. Click the Pencil Icon 4. Delete the random numbers 5. Save That's it. Ten seconds. Done. ## What If Your Name Is Taken? If `firstname-lastname` is already claimed, try these alternatives: - `firstname-lastname-cfo` (add your title) - `firstname-m-lastname` (add your middle initial) - `firstname-lastname-uk` (add your location) Keep it clean. Keep it professional. Avoid numbers if you can. ## Why This Matters for Executives At C-Suite level, personal branding is non-negotiable. Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing a headhunter checks after receiving your CV. A polished vanity URL signals that you understand digital presence. It's a small detail—but small details compound. --- *For more on executive personal branding, explore our [Writing & Content](/writing-and-content) insights.*