Many of you already know that as a business owner you need to join a variety of social networks to promote your products and services. However, each network will offer you a different opportunity. Facebook will help you build brand awareness, reach a wide audience and gather leads. Twitter is popular for those in customer service whilst LinkedIn of course is a very professional based platform. So if you are looking to connect with other business owners, build strong networks and attain business clients, you need to get active on LinkedIn.
Don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn and it’s ability to generate leads. Many business decision makers prefer LinkedIn and you will find them in industry related groups.
So how do you use LinkedIn correctly and grow your business?
We’ve put together a few tips on how and what to do on LinkedIn and help keep you looking professional and not looking like a stalker.
Join Groups
As mentioned, decision makers are in groups themselves so find a group or two or more that are related to your: industry, topic, location and look to join groups where those you want to connect with are already hanging out.
Contribute
No point joining a group if you don’t contribute. Make sure you watch and read first and try and contribute to any questions and topical conversations. The more active you are the more you will be noticed. You will also be seen as an expert in your field so make sure your stay relevant and helpful.
Connect
As you become more active in a group, start reaching out to those people you want to connect with. Don’t just send an invitation, I’ll repeat that, don’t just send an invitation to connect.
Send a short note and mention the group you are both in and why you joined the group and why you would like to connect with them. If you have a common person you are connected with, mention their name too.
Don’t automatically start selling to them, it’s a sure fire way to get rejected.
Create Your Own Group
If you’re feeling adventurous and have the hang of groups, consider creating your own. It should be a place to discuss topics of your field/interest and should be a place where customers, prospects, affiliates and even competitors can contribute.
Remember to set your rules up front and discourage selling and spamming. Be ready to manage the group and provide stimulating topics that are updated regularly so that the group finds it worthwhile to participate.
Planning and Strategy
Like any social media platform, have a clear plan on what you want to achieve and a strategy in place. Like we say, if you don’t have a strategy, it’s a bit like going on a road trip and not setting the GPS!
If you need any assistance with the strategy, planning and management of your LinkedIn profile, feel free to give Envious Solutions a call on 1300 467 489.
Share the knowledge
