When you think of LinkedIn, do you think glorified job board? Many do, and it’s limiting them from utilizing this powerful marketing tool to its full potential.
There are many ways to use LinkedIn to promote your business. If you’re willing to go beyond merely posting a profile picture and a link to your site, you’ll reap the benefits of all the features that make this site the go-to marketing resource for 12 million small business users. Here are 10 ways to use LinkedIn to take your business marketing to a whole new level:
1. Rock the profile. Your profile is your online business card. Make it count! Use a clear, easy-to-see headshot accompanied by a concise headline that includes your title and company.
A couple of tips:
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Include non-work related experiences and interests. This also helps LinkedIn to connect you with others who have similar interests.
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Get as many recommendations as possible, and write as many as you can for others. It builds your online reputation and encourages colleagues to help you out.
2. Add your LinkedIn account to your email signature line. Since email is the primary form of communication for so many, a link to your profile makes it easy for others to access your LinkedIn account.
3. Create a group. A LinkedIn group is a handy way to connect with colleagues and build your authority. Participate in the group regularly and invite discussion.
4. Share content. Link blog, article and video content to your LinkedIn account to get noticed by other members. The link to the content will appear in your account, and a link to your account will appear wherever readers are viewing the content.
5. Network. LinkedIn connects you to related businesses and industries that can give you referrals and repeat business. Are you a real estate developer? Use LinkedIn to connect with real estate brokers and agents.
6. Update contacts. LinkedIn can be a powerful networking tool—if you stay on top of it. Go through your contacts every few months and make sure the list is still relevant.
Here’s a tip: Use the “People You May Already Know” tool. Update your interests and work experience first. LinkedIn will find other people with similar backgrounds for you.
7. Review other profiles. Look at other related company profiles frequently. This gives you insight into what your friends (and competition) are doing. It also gives you an avenue to possible new hires.
8. Tap into resources. LinkedIn Answers offers answers to questions in over 200 categories, provided by business owners and other members. Use this tool to tap into the wisdom of thousands of your colleagues.
9. Sync your accounts. You can sync your LinkedIn, FaceBook business page and Twitter accounts and triple your impact. All status updates will automatically be posted to all accounts.
10. Don’t forget SEO. Optimize your LinkedIn account—it will make you easier to find. Include keywords in your profile, your work information and throughout your page. And, it’s a good idea to link your bio page from your website to your LinkedIn profile page.
