As we’ve already discussed, your LinkedIn profile is your professional showcase, where every detail matters. One of the most common mistakes people make is using multiple languages in their profile. For example, the headline and summary are written in English, while job titles remain in another language. A minor issue? Not at all. In fact, this inconsistency creates an impression that’s far from the professional image you want to project.

 

Why is mixing languages a problem?

 

It creates an impression of carelessness

Using multiple languages in a single profile gives the impression that you were either in a rush or didn’t pay enough attention to the details.

 

It makes your profile harder to read

When different sections of your profile are written in different languages, it can confuse readers. This distraction takes the focus away from the essence of your profile—your achievements and competencies.

 

It ruins the appearance of your PDF

LinkedIn allows users to export their profiles as PDF files to share with employers or partners. In this format, language inconsistencies become glaringly obvious, turning the document into a visually and stylistically unbalanced piece.

 

How to check your profile for language consistency

 

Review your profile

Go to your profile page and carefully check key sections for any language discrepancies:

• Headline
• About (Summary)
• Experience
• Skills and Recommendations

Export your profile to PDF

• Click on the “More” button below your profile picture.
• Select “Save to PDF” from the dropdown menu.
• Open the downloaded file and review how it looks. Any language inconsistencies will stand out.

Get an external review

Sometimes, small mistakes or inconsistencies may escape your notice. Ask a colleague or friend fluent in your target language to take a fresh look at your profile.

 

How to fix mixed languages in your profile

 

Choose a primary language for your profile

Select the language that aligns best with your target audience:

• If you’re targeting international companies or markets, go with English.
• If your work is focused on a specific local market, it’s better to use the local language.

Ensure uniformity across key sections

Make sure all sections are written in the same language:

• Headline: This is the first thing visitors see. Keep it concise, clear, and in line with your chosen language.
• About section: Write in one language and tailor the tone to your audience.
• Experience: Job descriptions and accomplishments should match the language of the rest of the profile.

Create separate language versions of your profile

LinkedIn allows you to add profiles in multiple languages. To avoid mixing languages:

• Go to your profile settings.
• Find the “Add profile in another language” option.
• Create a fully translated version in the secondary language instead of blending languages in one profile.

Verify your updates via PDF export

After making changes, export your profile as a PDF again to ensure it looks professional, coherent, and consistent.

 

Additional tips

 

Retain original company names

• For globally recognized brands, use their official English names.
• For local companies, keep the original name in its native language but add a brief explanation in your profile's primary language if necessary.

Be cautious with auto-translation

Sometimes, LinkedIn automatically translates section titles or prompts, but this can lead to incorrect phrasing. Always double-check how the system displays your text.

 

Not just a stylistic error

 

Mixing languages in your LinkedIn profile is not just a minor oversight; it signals a lack of professionalism. A profile written in a consistent style and language leaves a stronger impression, highlights your attention to detail, and makes it easier for others to read and understand your information. By addressing this issue, you make your profile more attractive to recruiters, employers, and business partners.

Paying attention to details like this will always work in your favor.

 

Julia Jolkin 👠👠

Top IT Recruiter & LinkedIn Expert

 

Feel free to contact me if you need:

• A review of your LinkedIn profile to understand how potential employers, partners, or clients perceive it. This will help you quickly find a job or confidently promote your services at any time. Sign up for the upcoming LinkedIn Makeover session.

• A career consultation to revise your career path and skills, especially if you haven’t been to an interview in a while and want to prepare thoroughly.