We consider LinkedIn to be one of the most powerful business-related social networking tools ever created. You can:
- Use LinkedIn to keep you in front of existing clients
- Use your existing LinkedIn network to introduce you to more connections
- Find your next job
- Research the activities of targeted companies
- Publish your own articles that get viewed by hundreds of individuals and businesses
You can accomplish these impressive feats for free. While LinkedIn has more sophisticated activities available for a fee, this platform allows for robust networking that won’t cost you anything but an investment of your time.
How to Use Your LinkedIn Network
Individuals should make sure to add a professional profile picture (see if yours is up to snuff here) and an interesting profile that includes some work history as well as your philosophy and approach to doing your job. Sharing what makes you interesting and unique in a professional setting just might yield a phone call from your next place of employment. Have a business? Start by building your brand page profile. Begin by uploading your logo or a graphic from your company website, then add succinct copy that tells the story of your business.
Start Building Connections
Next, explore the options LinkedIn provides to connect with your existing contacts. While it may still support importing contacts from various email platforms, always follow LinkedIn’s current guidelines and ensure you comply with all relevant privacy regulations. Instead of sending a generic message, we recommend customizing your approach by reaching out individually to these contacts.
LinkedIn continues to be a valuable tool for growing your network. The platform will suggest connections by showing you ‘people you may know.’ Think carefully about the kind of network you want to build and follow those principles to create a strong and relevant network. Before connecting with someone you don’t know directly, consider asking a mutual connection for an introduction via the platform’s messaging system or email.
As you explore your connections, take advantage of LinkedIn’s tools for organizing and managing your network, which might include features for categorizing or tagging connections by different criteria. Engage with the platform regularly, responding to posts on your newsfeed, joining groups, and publishing professional content. Remember, LinkedIn is designed for industry professionals, so keep personal content to other platforms, and use LinkedIn in the way it was intended.”
This revision reflects a more generalized approach to connecting with contacts and emphasizes professional etiquette and engagement on the platform without referencing potentially outdated specifics. Always consult LinkedIn’s current documentation and guidelines to ensure the most accurate and compliant practices for 2023.
But Wait, There’s More
We’ve only touched upon a few benefits of this robust platform. Social media works, but it takes time and effort. If you’re a business interested in expanding your social networks, contact Artisan today to find out how a social media expert could help extend your reach and build your business.
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