Step 1. Read Profiles
Reading profiles of the members you connect with is a great way to get started. The profiles on Linked In are a summary of the person you are meeting online. The first way to use your Linked In Network would be to go through these profiles and see if they fit into your target profile. If you haven't yet defined your target profile - download this worksheet now. Knowing your target audience is the most important step in your marketing.Step 2. Start Conversations
Once you connect start conversations with the profiles that strike an interest in you. Conversations can be on a personal level or a business level, this depends on what you intend to get out of the relationship! Although it might be important to note that Linked In is not a dating site - and should not be used as one! For the sake of your business also - as you might be reported and your account closed.Step 3. Give before you get
Give interesting content that shows you thought about them and read their profiles. Doing this type of thing on a regular basis will help develop trust and rapport between you and your LinkedIn connections.
Step 4. Connect with the right people
Before growing your network on LinkedIn take a step back and think about some of the goals you would like to achieve within your business over the next year or so. With these goals in mind now think about 'who' you need to connect with in order to help you achieve those goals. Use the search bar at the top of Linked In to search for these people - for instance if you are looking for an HR Manager to discuss a certain product that you offer, then type HR Manager in the search box. You can refine your search by industry, country, seniority level, company size, school and other criteria although some need a paid account.Step 5. Active group participation.
Join groups related to your business and your interests and participate in discussions there for increased exposure. Discussion participation can help establish you as an expert in your field. Answer questions and give opinions and occasionally ask questions. Don't spam the groups. You'll tarnish the reputation of your own and of your business.Step 6. Think like a journalist.
Concise intros and snappy headlines are more likely to result in higher engagement than long, boring copy. You have only moments to show your audience why they should care, so being concise is crucial. Grab your readers’ attention right away by starting your update with your most important thought.Step 7. Make your content valuable & bite size
Develop quality content that is quick to consume, so members will want to share it with their connections and networks. In fact, the most successful updates include a picture, chart, video or link to an article. When you do not have a link or image to include, engage with your audience by asking a question.
My Linked In strategy, is to connect with and expand my network on LinkedIn with people I have done business with, would like to do business with or that I can help through my expertise in online marketing. What's your strategy? If you don't have one yet drop me an email or a comment in the down box below for some ideas on how You can start getting results from your Linked In profile today!
