We Want Results for Our Efforts on LinkedIn!

Let’s face it, we have a love-hate relationship with social media platforms. So why do we continue to put in the effort? Because it can have positive results that will pay off. LinkedIn is a great social media platform to put in the effort. You can connect with colleagues, clients, and companies in your field. You can seek new job opportunities and exchange ideas with industry leaders. LinkedIn can also be used for business development and lead generation. This is key in today’s environment where so many are shying away from the “hard sell” and “cold-calling.” Whether it’s for your own professional growth or for the growth of your company, spending 5-10 minutes a day checking LinkedIn notifications and engaging with past and current clients is a great way to maintain visibility without feeling intrusive. When you acquire new clients, send them a connection request; when you’re working with a new company, follow them. Check in on clients you haven’t heard from in a while. See if they’re still working for the same company, if not, catch up with them and see if they have new business for you. Don’t forget about your 2nd degree connections. 2nd-degree connections are people you share a mutual 1st-degree connection with. Ask for an Introduction from your 1st-degree connection. Join groups, especially ones where your connections participate. This gives you common interests and goals to discuss. Groups are a great way to expand your network and highlight your own expertise. Post your own articles and blogs. Articles and blogs, written by you, and posted on your timeline encourage users to comment and share their views and expertise. Use hashtags to make your content easy to find. In the same vein, share other people’s articles, blogs, and videos. You can share from any source including news media, websites, and video platforms. Toot your own horn! Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date with your new title, a change in workplace, a new certificate or degree, or some other successful endeavor. Toot your client’s horn. Go to their profile and leave a recommendation or an endorsement. They will get a notification and often return the favor. Use LinkedIn Learning. These courses are set up as short modules so you can learn at your own pace and when you’re finished you click the box to add that certification to your LinkedIn profile. Use LinkedIn to post job opportunities at your company. Spend 10 minutes a day or 10 minutes a week, and watch your time add up to increased visibility for both you and your company. I’d say that’s worth the effort!