The very basis of LinkedIn is to build relationships and grow your influence. Are you taking advantage of everything LinkedIn has to offer to reach these goals?
Have a Complete and Professional Profile.
Have a complete, detailed and professionally-written profile with a high quality photo appropriate for a business environment. First impressions are lasting impressions and first impressions made online have the potential to last forever. For a connection who does not already know you, it’s the first image in mind of both you and your company.
Write Blog Posts.
Take advantage of the ability to publish long-form blog posts on LinkedIn. Create content that is both interesting and valuable to your readers. It’s a fun and easy way to quickly establish your authority or expertise and the views and shares come quite easily for well-written and thoughtful content.
Read Blog Posts.
Give other writers your time by reading posts that catch your interest. Follow contacts in your network as well as influencers you may find via LinkedIn Pulse. These influencers range include individuals working in a diverse mix of industries as well as world-famous influential figures including Deepak Chopra, M.D., Richard Branson, Ariana Huffington and President Barack Obama. No matter who writes a post you have enjoyed or benefitted from in some way, show your appreciation with likes, comments or social shares.
Create a Company Page.
Your company page is the place to share the details of your business and to offer regular updates of what is going on. Many individuals search LinkedIn for specific businesses so it’s important to be a part of this online directory.
Use LinkedIn Groups.
Join relevant LinkedIn groups and participate in the conversations. You may even want to consider creating your own if you find there is a need for a specific group that does not yet exist.
Be Active.
Share regular updates with your network. Share your business’ accolades and your accolades on LinkedIn. Message brand new connections to get acquainted with one another rather than simply connecting and never having any actual conversations. You’d be surprised how many potential clients, collaborators and brand advocates you may discover in this way.
Think Beyond Business.
Congratulate members on job milestones or new jobs, give birthday wishes and otherwise interact with your network when you receive member-specific notifications. It’s a small act of effort that shows you are willing to spend the time to pay attention to what others and doing – in and outside of work.
