3 ways to use LinkedIn

For those of you that don’t already know, LinkedIn is a powerful networking site that can be used to create business opportunities, ask questions, and build credibility. In particular, it can be a brilliant tool to generate leads from high-end decision makers, especially since 39% of members are at management level or above.

As a user, you should be pro-actively using the site to ensure you are exploiting its full potential. With this in mind, we have put together 3 ways in which you can use LinkedIn to do just that.

1. Create your own group

Setting up your own group in LinkedIn will help you build an online community in which you are seen as a thought-leader. As a thought-leader, you will be able to influence others by offering them valuable information from your industry and as a result find yourself quickly gaining new connections.

By managing the group correctly and spending time getting to know your members, you will also be able to introduce members within the group and encourage interaction. By doing this, you could find yourself assisting those members in achieving their own goals, which could benefit you in the long term.

2. Check out other groups

To get the most out of the ‘groups’ section of LinkedIn you should explore groups that reside in industries other than your own. There is little point in wasting your time debating similar topics in your own industry when you could be offering valuable information to those who actually need it.

By helping individuals in other groups you can not only form new relationships, but you can also use it as an opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing clients. Remember the more groups you join, the more visibility you have and the more access you have to other connections.

3. Explore ‘LinkedIn Answers’

The ‘Answers’ section of LinkedIn is a Q&A forum where you can either get advice from other LinkedIn members, or offer your own advice to those seeking it.

Regularly replying to questions is a brilliant way to build your reputation and position yourself as an expert in your field. Researching the person first so that you can tailor your response, as well as offer them valuable advice is a great way to start building a new relationship. Since your avatar displays next to each reply, it is also a great way of leading people back to you profile so that they can learn more about you which could ultimately lead to a business opportunity in the long term.

Now it’s over to you…

LinkedIn is a thriving online community that will require you to make an active commitment to its use. As the platform itself is always being updated and new features being added, it is important to make sure you are constantly reviewing how you use it to ensure you are optimising the opportunities available.

If you would like to know more about LinkedIn contact Optix Solutions on 01392 667766 or visit http://www.optixsolutions.co.uk