Using Linkedin As A Networking Tool

LinkedIn is best known as a networking site for business professionals.  With over 200 million users across the globe, LinkedIn is quickly becoming a powerhouse networking tool.

Though many people have created a profile on LinkedIn, they often overlook it as a business resource that should be used for networking to grow your current business.  With a few simple steps, you can have access to information, advice, authorities, and resources centered on almost any niche that your business may focus on.

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Creating A Profile On LinkedIn

As with all social networking sites, a good foundation is key.

• Complete every part of your Linkedin Profile.
• Even if you aren’t looking to network professionally, an accurate portrayal of your life, experience, & skills is essential to make meaningful connections.
• Add an accurate profile picture to make connections more easily.
• Add links to your personal website, blog, & other social media sites.
• Pick your skills wisely; they are one of the criteria for joining groups and making personal connections.

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How To Start Connecting On LinkedIn

There are many different ways to create a personal network on LinkedIn.

1. Connect to Individuals

• Start with people you know personally-you can import contacts from your email & then send invitations to form connections.
• Connect to parenting bloggers & professionals that you respect.
• Learn more about teachers, principles, & members of the community.  (This is particularly useful when looking for prospective schools.)
• Once you connect with someone, you can browse their other connections to find possible contacts for you.

2. Connect to Companies

• Is there a particular brand of kids’ clothing you like or a company that you love?  Follow companies that are important to you & get updates, news, product releases, event information, & more!
• Search for helpful companies, such as nanny services, dental care providers, government departments, & schools.

3. Join Groups

• Groups are great opportunities to see what like-minded individuals are discussing.  Ask questions, get advice & information, & discuss niche issues with other professionals who may be able to share valuable knowledge on the subject.
• Bloggers can see hot topics and find missed opportunities for new blog posts.
• Joining groups is also a great way to get involved and share relevant blog post or website pages and create a traffic flow to your website.  You will find the more you put out in groups, the more you get back in rewards of traffic and industry connections.

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How To Use Other LinkedIn Business Resources

1. News

• LinkedIn suggests news topics based on your interests, skills, & connections.
• Customize your news by following the industries & topics that most interest you.  The education management is particularly useful for news about everything to do with education.

2. Share Events

• Interested in holding a blogging event or simply interested in getting a group of professionals together?  Share your event details on LinkedIn to promote your get-together, whether it’s formal or informal.

3. Once you join a group or make a connection, you’ll start receiving updates that they share.

• Participate in new discussions, get involved, & start sharing your own updates!

Are you on Linkedin?  What Linkedin feature do you enjoy most?