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I have a confession to make. In the world of social media I came to LinkedIn rather late. I've heard LinkedIn described as the 'buttoned down, suited up version' of social media and after working for more than 20 years in corporate environments – was keen to pursue what I felt were more innovative and relaxed forms. Facebook, Twitter, blogging and LinkedIn are just a few of the social media platforms and as discussed previously, facilitate strategic marketing by enabling engagement with customers in one on one conversations, listening and authenticity. It's all about building relationships. And LinkedIn fosters those – in spades. Here are some LinkedIn stats*: * LinkedIn has over 47 million members in over 200 countries and territories around the world. * A new member joins LinkedIn approximately every second, and about half of all members are from outside the U.S. *Executives from all Fortune 500 companies are LinkedIn members Yes it is a slightly more serious form – you post your professional background/resume as a profile and can request recommendations from those with or for whom you’ve worked. But this is just the start – it is so much more! For a Business to Business marketing tool – LinkedIn can be really useful. The following are just five features of LinkedIn relevant to growing your business. 1. NetworkingLinkedIn is fantastic way to follow up those connections made at networking events. Instead of forwarding the 'it was nice to meet you' emails, you can connect via LinkedIn and in the process still send a message. The person with whom you’re connecting will immediately receive your background and profile. 2. ResearchLinkedIn has tools enabling to search and identify companies within an industry and location. Extremely useful! 3. Brand PersonalityLinked n enables you to connect your twitter and blog feeds. You can attach documents and presentations – and even provide book reviews which provide further insight into you and your brand. 4. GroupsJoining groups of interest on LinkedIn provides a wonderful way to network, expand contacts and cultivate useful information. 5. SEOBeing active on LinkedIn will also help your SEO. You can include your website details on your profile. So don't be a late LinkedIn bloomer. Start lovin' LinkedIn now. Your business will be glad you did! |
Great post, Anne. I love Linkedin and use it as my (PRM) Personal Relationship Manager. I am an Open Networker and every business card I receive is an invitation to join my network (I have 8,800+ connections currently).
More power to you and Linkedin!
Cheers, Iggy
Thanks Iggy! Yes it’s great. Your experience with LinkedIn certainly demonstrates its power in managing nearly 9000 connections!
Fantastic. LinkedIn could use ‘Your PRM’ as its tag ..! Take care – see you on LinkedIn!
Very well written and researched, Anne. Thank you. Doug
Great summary Anne.
I’ve been using LinkedIn for about 12 months and have built up some delightful relationships there. It’s brought me work both directly and indirectly, and is a great forum for sharing ideas.
I particularly love the free Wordpress for setting up a blog and that new blog posts are automatically linked to my profile.
It’s a useful business tool.
Cheers
Desolie
Hi Desolie! Thanks so much for your comments. Yes – I think LinkedIn is really building a niche as a social media tool for business. Agree – it’s extremely useful! Look forward to talking with you again soon. Best wishes.