27 January 2022

Using Linkedin As A Networking Tool

By Rahul Garg

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.

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.

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.

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?

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