Moving Beyond Facebook and Twitter: LinkedIn Tips for Success
Posted by Chris Tarango on Tue, Dec 13, 2011 @ 08:50 AM
This year we have explored various tools and techniques to grow your business using social media. Not surprisingly, most businesses have established profiles on Facebook and Twitter. The notoriety and sheer magnitude of these two networks make them convenient choices for businesses engaging with customers online. However, another social network might just help your brand and business shine in a whole new dimension. Because LinkedIn offers such potential for businesses, we want to share some insight on how to make this platform work for you.
Recently, Mindflash, an online training software company, created a LinkedIn boot camp infographic with great advice on getting the most out of your LinkedIn profile. Today, LinkedIn has grown to over 134 million users. With 77 percent of members age 25 or older and the average user income of $109,000, its easy to see why LinkedIn is different from the all-reaching Facebook and Twitter networks.
Your LinkedIn profile is a digital business card and resume. Its a place to offer your professional services, with ample space for personality, and the opportunities to build your professional network. Like a job interview, first impressions go a long way on LinkedIn. A good profile starts with completing all the requested information and a great headshot of yourself. You can post an anecdote or video to grab the attention of users in your industry. Then, using the "edit profile" options, customize your URL to reflect your name. Next, add your blog; customizing the name so the whole URL does not appear.
Once the personal half of your profile is complete, add your company profile. Just like with your personal information, you can add videos and other relevant content, such as employees and special services. The company profile is a great marketing tool for your business and gives your personal profile more visibility. The last step to completing your LinkedIn profile is to add applications to improve the user experience. There are a variety of apps available; browse through them to find the ones that fit your industry.
LinkedIn users are largely career-mined professionals who love to network. The key is to connect with everyone in your industry, not just those you know personally. Opportunities will bloom if you grow your network. Try recommending others, and often they will eagerly return the favor. Joins groups to share industry insight, then start your own group and become an expert yourself.
With only a fraction of the members of Facebook, LinkedIn is claiming its stake as the premier social network for professionals. Its time for you and your business to be part of that conversation. If your business is already connected, what are some ways your company has engaged on LinkedIn?