Are you looking to bring your business into the world of social media? So, you create profiles on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Youtube and Instagram to build brand awareness, attract potential customers and use as a way of direct communication. But if you ultimately want to make business connections, generate leads and close a deal – Get LinkedIn!
Other social networking sites certainly play a major role in the business world, however, LinkedIn is the most powerful social networking site for businesses that specifically targets social media in a professional light. People on LinkedIn are business professionals strictly looking to connect and network with other business professionals. Here are a few tips to get started on LinkedIn:
Use LinkedIn Groups – Join groups within your industry and reach out to users with similar interests and professional goals. Groups can be categorized by search groups, company groups, networking groups and alumni groups to name a few. You can also create your own group targeting a specific professional niche.
Build Connections – It is important to utilize the “networking” aspect of this social site. Reach out and make quality connections with potential leads. When looking for a connection opportunity, one helpful tool to use is the “People You May Know” feature – which factors in your networks, groups and shared connections with your current connections.
Update Profile Page – Make sure to keep your profile page active. Create fresh content and use the “Update” feature allowing you to post articles, web links and pictures. Page updates are a passage for direct social outreach.
Create your own Networking Event – Boost your online presence by hosting an event. The Events tool allows users to search for events related to network connections, industry and geographic location. When creating an event on LinkedIn, you will be able to target a select group of business professionals.
Send Personal Messages – Once you have made that connection and identified a lead, make the extra effort and send them a personalized message. A personal message is a great way to reach out and differentiate yourself in such a large social network. Add your own personal touch.
Just to quickly recap, you can use LinkedIn to seek and hire talent, find leads, network, build brand awareness, build targeted online communities, generate traffic, generate sales, promote events and webinars and ultimately build professional relationships. With over 200 million users, it’s no wonder that LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network on the Internet. So take the jump and leap into using LinkedIn!
Anya is a social media consultant at Ajax Union. Originally from the flavorful city of New Orleans, she made her way up to the Northeast. As a proud alumna from Lehigh University, she graduated with a B.A. in Journalism and minors in Psychology and Mass Communications. Currently residing in Manhattan, she is happily exploring the culture, cuisine and energy of New York City.
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