I am asked 'how do I create results with LinkedIn' so often that I have developed a list of key steps to introduce this powerful business development method.
Done right, digital or social selling on LinkedIn can be the most effective way to find more customers and grow your business. It’s about growing your network and maximising the power of connections you already have.
Business owners, such as practice managers, starting to use LinkedIn for their business for the first time often begin with the assumption it will be like Facebook and be all about your Business Page. In contrast, on LinkedIn, one of the most powerful assets for any SME business is your personal profile. That is where you can quickly articulate your business story and grow a network to expand brand awareness.
The importance of optimising your LinkedIn profile
Are you aware that people Google your name before or after meeting with you? And that when they Google you, they find your LinkedIn profile at the top of the search results? Whether your profile is good, bad or only partially complete, this is the image you are presenting to the business world, including potential customers.
Take control of your personal brand and be the professional you want to be online by optimising your LinkedIn profile in line with your business objectives, making it a resource to help you attract your ideal clients. This includes being sure that all your messaging and communications on LinkedIn are consistent with those objectives. I am frequently asked to audit clients’ LinkedIn profiles and they are often incomplete and more like an online CV. They also often include outdated information that is confusing for readers.
Key steps to optimising your LinkedIn profile
Ensure your profile is customer centric by writing it with your ideal clients in mind:
List the different kinds of clients or customers you work with and the problems you solve for them. A bullet-point list is ideal for this. Follow this with a list of your key services and/or products, like a shopping list of what your clients or customers can expect from you.
Finish your About Section with a call to action telling them what you want them to do once they have read your LinkedIn profile, eg. to phone or email you.
Kate Nankivell is a LinkedIn and social selling expert based in Auckland, New Zealand. If you would like to know more then please get in touch via LinkedIn or email: kate@forceofnature.co.nz; https://www.linkedin.com/in/katenankivell/, or www.forceofnature.co.nz