Which tone of voice is better? 🗣️
Formal vs Informal
Before starting to fill out your profile on LinkedIn, you should ask yourself which tone of voice to use 🤔
The typical pattern I have noticed is that Junior Software Engineers who have just graduated tend to start with a very formal tone.
👉🏻 This is something I have been through: the lack of experience can be intimidating, and a common reaction is to build an artificial barrier to appear “professional”.
Even worse is when you end up with a biography where you speak in the third person, getting that “Wikipedia page” effect. 😩
When you begin, it’s easy to be tempted by a formal approach: you’ve been taught (by movies, family, or friends) that at work you should dress in a jacket and tie, and that this will help you make a good impression 👔.
This is not necessarily true. As you gain more experience, you quickly realize that you have the power to choose your own approach.
Especially as a Software Engineer.
Your field has a huge demand for people like you, and the range of companies looking to hire you is vast: from banks to consulting firms, and from product companies to startups.
👉🏻 The possibilities are endless.
Why Informality Often Wins 👀
Choosing an informal tone on LinkedIn can be a winning strategy. Not just because it feels more natural, but because it helps you stand out.
A friendly and conversational tone lets you:
Express yourself freely in environments where informality is standard, like tech startups or product companies.
Bring a fresh perspective to more traditional or formal industries.
In both cases, the key is balance: being informal doesn’t mean being sloppy. It means being approachable, engaging, and authentic, while still showing respect for your audience.
🤩 The Role of Emojis in Informality
In today’s digital communication, emojis are the ultimate symbol of informality.
When used correctly, they:
Add color and emphasis to your content.
Make your profile more inviting and dynamic.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overusing emojis: think of them as highlights rather than the main focus. A profile that blends natural language with carefully placed emojis can create an eye-catching, memorable impression.
3 Tips for Your LinkedIn Profile 👇🏻
If you decide to embrace informality, here are 3 important tips to keep your profile polished and engaging:
1️⃣ Write in the first person: Avoid the third-person “Wikipedia effect.” Your story is yours. Own it by writing as yourself.
2️⃣ Speak to the reader as “you”: Imagine you’re talking to a single person, not a crowd. This makes your profile and posts feel more personal.
3️⃣ Stay professional but relaxed: Informality doesn’t mean abandoning professionalism. Use clear, respectful language while letting your personality shine through.
A consideration for you 🫵🏻
Stop thinking that your workplace defines your personality.
It’s your personality that shapes your environment.