We just got a subtle reminder that the world of social media, and particularly LinkedIn, needs to be a part of the way we do business every day.
LinkedIn went public late last week. The initial public offering of common stock sold at a public price of $45 per share. Total shares offered: 7.84 million. The price jumped, of course, and reached into the $120s before coming back down some. More than 100 million people are members of LinkedIn. By these numbers, though, we’re talking about a large number of people with a high level of interest in a substantive Internet-based company. And, of course, all the chatter around the water cooler will only help LinkedIn as it continues to build as the premier professional networking machine.
If you are searching for the answer to reach more potential clients and ultimately get more business deals closed, expand your use of LinkedIn. Do it smartly and efficiently by following these ideas:
– Review your profile and expand on it. Make sure you’ve got not just your current employer or business but also include your past positions and companies. Make note of your accomplishments that will help you “sell” what you can do for future clients.
– Grow your LinkedIn base through traditional networking. When you meet someone, ask them if they are on LinkedIn and link up with them if they are. There is power in numbers.
– Join many groups, which will allow you to communicate with people who otherwise would not have been part of your LinkedIn network. Informally review a group’s demographics and if they match your business, become a member. You have the opportunity to join up to 50 groups, so take advantage of this outlet.
– Become an expert by answering others’ questions and be an active participant in the community by asking questions. If you know the answer to someone’s posted question and can provide the person with relevant, useful, deep information, go ahead and answer. It will make you an “expert” in their eyes and they might be inclined to talk with you more and possibly do business with you. On the other side, asking questions makes you someone who is a relevant, involved person in that specific business community or group.
– You can also position yourself in much the same way by starting group discussions and participating in them. The people who are in a group have actively chosen to be a member there. They are seeking the cohesiveness and knowledge of that community. Showing your expertise in a dignified way by starting group discussions will provide leadership to a group and generate new business.
– Lastly, update your status regularly. By doing this, you are showing others that you’ve got it going on in your business, that your business is accomplishing things for people and that you are getting things done at today’s rapid pace of business.
LinkedIn is a smart tool for smart businesspeople. If you’re not using it, you should be. Chances are your competitors are. Roughly a million people join each week. If you are using it, find a way to make it part of your daily business life. For helpful information and to stay on top of LinkedIn news, go to http://blog.linkedin.com.
Josh Sommers is president and CEO of Focus Media, a leading Hudson Valley advertising and public relations agency. He can be reached at josh@advertisingandpr.com or 294-3342, ext. 303. Read his blog at www.advertisingandpr.com. His column appears Fridays.
