Social Media: 4 Keys to Succeeding with LinkedIn
No More “Tip-toeing” for B2B
Over the last few weeks, we have had a number of our Denver-based B2B clients ask us about how to succeed with LinkedIn. They say they are done “tip-toeing around” and really want to know what to do in order to succeed with this social media tool designed for business.
LinkedIn is the Largest Social Networking Site for Businesses
With over 100 million members worldwide, LinkedIn is the premier social networking site for business. The best part of LinkedIn is that it offers features that allow businesses to make meaningful connections with colleagues, customers, suppliers, potential hires and many others in related fields.
For many, the distinction between LinkedIn and sites such as Facebook lies in the quality of the connections. Making friends is great, but when it comes to marketing your Denver business you want networking opportunities that can really grow your business.
5 Important Features
If you are going to use LinkedIn for this goal, it helps to first understand some of its features:
- You can set up a business page that is separate from your individual LinkedIn page
- LinkedIn will automatically group individuals by company
- The Recommendation feature allows members to give and receive recommendations from colleagues that will then show up on the profile page
- Your work and experience history is on your profile page for easy access
- You can’t make a connection until you indicate how you know someone, and you can’t contact anyone outside your network unless you sign up for a paid service
LinkedIn is a “Must-do” for B2B Companies
LinkedIn was specifically designed for workplace professionals. Think of it as the online version of the classifieds, water cooler, job board, trade show/convention and board meeting all rolled into one. If your company provides professional services, engages in B2B sales, or is looking to hire; if you are a consultant in need of an agile and convenient way to drum up business, LinkedIn is a must-do.
Success with this business networking site means sticking to a few fundamental practices.
Use these 4 Keys for growing your Denver business with LinkedIn:
1. Think quality, not quantity. With a platform such as FaceBook or Twitter, the focus is generally on creating as many Likes and followers as possible. With LinkedIn, you need to switch to a mindset of quality. Since you are using it to not only make business connections, but to generate qualified leads, you want to make sure that your connections are truly relevant.
Quick tip: Link to those you already know, and ask colleagues to make introductions.
2. Create a killer profile. This is your mini resume, the place where your company’s qualifications and experience appear to interested parties. Complete each field thoroughly and add details that showcase products, services and expertise. Add links to your company’s site and all other relevant web pages.
Quick tip: Don’t use the standard defaults for “Company Website,” etc. Use the “other” button when editing your website addresses and type in your actual company name next to the URL.
3. Join groups. These also appear on your profile page. They connect you to potentially hundreds or thousands of other professionals in related fields, and can be a rich resource for boosting your company’s growth.
Quick tip: Start and join discussions, introduce topics of interest and comment on others’ topics to showcase your expertise.
4. Use LinkedIn Answers. This feature is a handy way for members to get answers and advice from others in your field.
Quick tip: Provide useful answers on a regular basis, and others will start to judge your answers as the best. This boosts your authority and visibility on LinkedIn.
It’s up to You as a business leader
Can you grow your business with LinkedIn? Absolutely! Will you grow you business with LinkedIn? It depends on how well you use it.
Take advantage of the features to broaden your reach with those in your network. Maximize your company’s profile, be proactive in seeking out quality connections, follow through and get involved! And the answer will be a resounding yes!
Need help? Try a LinkedIn support service like DBCdigital that specializes in helping Denver area businesses make the most of their social media marketing efforts.
Have a best LinkedIn tip? Share it with our readers by using the Comments section below.
