Why LinkedIn?
LinkedIn has recently become a popular social platform— one where businesses of all types can meet to discuss trending topics, network, and promote themselves in a professional environment. In fact according to LinkedIn, “91% of executives rate reading and posting on their LinkedIn as their first choice for professionally relevant content.”
Whether you are trying to generate more B2B leads, networking with your fellow industry members, generating investor interest, or searching for qualified employees, following these 6 LinkedIn best practices will help you to reach your goals.
Follow these LinkedIn Best Practices to Make A Splash
1) Start at Home: Make Sure Your Profile is Complete & Optimized!
Before you start posting and pulling your audience’s attention to your business or professional profile, make sure that it’s going to make the right impression!
According to LinkedIn complete profiles receive 30% more weekly views.
When people click on your profile, they should be able to learn not just what your profession is, but also share what exactly it is that you do for people, and who it is that you serve. You may even want to include some of your professional values and the things that set you apart from your competition!
2) Know Your Audience & Post Content that Will Get their Attention
Posting to LinkedIn is an effective way to get your name and your business out into the professional world. Depending on your goals, you’re going to want to target a certain group of LinkedIn users. Maybe you’re looking to connect with other businesses and potential clients, or maybe you’re looking to fill a position. Get to know your audience and their interests first if you want to capture their attention!
When it comes time to share or post content, think about your ideal reader and ask yourself if what you’re about to share is going to both interest them and give your business some credibility.
3) Use Eye-Catching Images and Graphics
Don’t underestimate the power of a good visual!
Incorporate unique and attention-grabbing images and graphics into your posts. Although LinkedIn is a more word-heavy social platform than Instagram, quality images are still helpful when it comes to striking interest, and stopping your audience mid-scroll.
4) Take Advantage of Video Content
This one’s plain and simple. People love watching videos. It’s a convenient & captivating way to share what you and your business are all about. Not sure where to start with video content? We’ve got you there! We break down some basics for video content in our video: 5 Tips on How to Use Video for your Business to Capture New Customers
5) Engage with Your Connection’s Content in a Genuine Way
Just like with other social media platforms, you’re going to get the most out of LinkedIn when you put out the effort to make genuine connections with the people. Instead of just liking posts, make meaningful comments. If you come across a person or business that you might like to work with, consider sending them a personalized message, but don’t just jump to sending a sales pitch! Remember, no one likes spam mail, so stay away from generic messages and responses that look like they could be copied and pasted to a million other people.
6) Utilize a Business Page When Necessary
A personal profile on LinkedIn is great for connecting with other professionals and building up your personal reputation as an expert in your field. There really is no substitute for a personal profile when it comes to building relationships. However, when it comes time to communicate from a business standpoint, you’ll want to utilize a company page.
A business page ads a level of legitimacy to your company and gives your employees a home-base where they can connect and direct others. You can also get more out of your content when you share content that you posted to your personal profile on your business page. Not to mention, it’s a great way to build up your SEO and get your business name at the top of search lists!
We hope this list of LinkedIn best practices helps you start using LinkedIn with confidence!
If you still have questions about LinkedIn, or marketing for your business, send us a message!
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