Are you one of the over 70 million members on LinkedIn? If so, what benefit has this social media platform brought to you and your business or brand?
The truth is lots of small and big businesses, outrageously popular brands and underdogs too, are successfully using LinkedIn to the advantage of their businesses. On the flipside, some LinkedIn members are not making as great an impact as they would like for their businesses.
As a business owner, you already know it is less about what you know and more about whom you know and who knows you. This is the kind of opportunity that 'LikendIn Connections' allow you to leverage. Your connections can make a great difference in defining whether your business or brand is successful and profitable.
Here's what you need to leverage your connections, so your brand can gain the visibility and traction it really needs to move to the next level:
Networking Is A No-Brainer
It is not enough to just build a fancy profile on LinkedIn. A professional, well-optimized profile is an absolute must, but your next step is to build connections that matter through active networking. There is the temptation to go out on a rampage and connect with anyone – but this is not an effective strategy. Look around, use the search bar to find like-minded people and send them a compelling, personalized reason why they should connect with you. Show those whom you want to connect with the kind of value your relationship will bring to them. Network with those who are truly relevant to you and your business.
Be a Valuable Resource To Your Groups
LinkedIn Groups are an amazing resource not just for linking up with people in your niche, but also to showcase your expertise in the service or product your business is offering. You will also find it much easier to make first, second and even third degree connections with the people in your respective groups and with those in their network. The rule of thumb is to avoid overtly marketing your business; provide answers to questions and solutions to answers, instead.
Ask for the Intro
Once you make a connection, say with a second-degree contact, and you are interested in knowing more about someone in their network, ask for an introduction! The bottom line is you can't be a pansy on LinkedIn if you really want to connect with people that matter to your business.
