When LinkedIn launched in 2003, its goal was to be the social networking site for professionals. However it soon became known as the social network for job seekers, a place to publish your ‘online resume’.
This wasn’t a bad thing in its own right. But it created a reputation which still lingers for many LinkedIn members. And so, the wide range of benefits and features LinkedIn offers go largely unused by millions of members. Which translates to millions of business owners and professionals missing out on opportunities to connect, collaborate and achieve their goals.
There are many features you can use to get more out of LinkedIn. But here are 3 of the simplest and most under-utilised ones anyone (not just job seekers!) can start taking advantage of today:
1. Groups
Groups provide a highly targeted, industry or subject driven place to connect, learn and build your reputation.
There are millions of groups to choose from, but don’t let this put you off! Search for topics of interest, then check out the level of activity in the group. You’ll quickly discover which ones are active, and where members contribute to valuable conversation, not just sales prospecting!
2. Analytics
Every LinkedIn member has access to analytics and insights about who has visited your profile.
The information is limited for free accounts (you’ll need to upgrade to a paid account for more comprehensive data), but it still provides insights about the profession, location and industry of the people you’re attracting. Useful information for measuring the effectiveness of your marketing efforts… and it might even reveal a new, untapped audience!
3. Recommendations
There’s nothing more powerful than social proof.
Instead of trying to persuade with self-promotion (which we know most won’t believe!) LinkedIn recommendations can show your clients, prospects, colleagues, employees and suppliers what your happy customers have experienced. They can also show people what makes you unique, and why they should engage with you.
Recommendations are also a simple and effective way for you to give public acknowledgement to others in your network.
For more tips on how to get the most out of LinkedIn check out our blog post LinkedIn: the Do’s and Don’ts.
