How to Grow Your Business With LinkedIn
Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn’s growth has skyrocketed, with over 400 million users worldwide. But LinkedIn isn’t like all the other social media platforms out there. It’s not where we go to post our latest vacation photos or to reconnect with an old friend, but rather where we go to connect with colleagues and to scout out potential job opportunities. LinkedIn is all about professional networking, and it’s one of the best tools out there.
Growth for your business can mean many things. You may be looking to grow your team by hiring a new employee or maybe you’re aiming to build a greater following on your LinkedIn company page. Whatever your goal, LinkedIn is a tool that should not be ignored. With a little practice and commitment, it can become one of your best means of professional networking. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Complete your profile or company page. To the best of your ability, make sure your LinkedIn profile and LinkedIn company page are completely filled out. It may take a little extra time and effort initially, but in the long run, you will see results. People come to LinkedIn to learn information, and you have to offer it if you want to stay in the lead. It’s important to also post a profile photo or a company logo. No one will want to follow you if they don’t know who you are. Plus, plain text on a page is always a little bit boring.
2. Join groups. LinkedIn groups are a place for professionals in the same industry or with similar interests to share content, have conversations and meet new contacts. Whatever type of group you’re looking for, it’s almost certain to exist. If it doesn’t, start your own! It’s just one more way to get your name out there.
3. Post strong content and post it often. People need a reason to follow you and your business. If your LinkedIn account is simply sitting stagnant with zero activity, your followers will slowly dwindle. Seek out or create fresh content and post it often. We post daily, but if that doesn’t work for you, find a timely routine that will.
4. Give to get. In order to reap the benefits, it takes a little bit of giving back. By taking part in conversations and applauding the accomplishments of others, you are giving. Eventually, it’ll come back around.
5. Have patience. Just like any social media platform, you can’t build an army of honest and loyal followers overnight. It takes time, consistency, and, most of all, patience. But don’t give up! Schedule LinkedIn networking into your daily calendar just as you would any other appointment. Even if it’s just 15 minutes! A little bit every day goes a long way.
LinkedIn can be your new best friend. It’s time to take advantage of it for all you can.
