Why Should I Use LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a popular networking tool to share information about a particular field of expertise. For example, if your business is a holistic wellness practice, you would use LinkedIn to share best practices in your field, share new services your business offers along with related trends, and demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. LinkedIn is the online space to share what you bring to the table as an expert in your career.
In the world of social media marketing, there are so many options. It can be easy to be overwhelmed by the choices. It can also be easy to put your hand in every pot and never get traction anywhere. It’s important to understand the use of each outlet in order to maximize the benefit and to know if it makes sense for your business.
Let’s discuss 3 reasons to use LinkedIn today and then we will discuss 3 ways to use LinkedIn today.
3 Reasons LinkedIn is Useful
LinkedIn is your online resume. It’s the best place to put every detail about your career, your studies, your qualifications and who you are in the career world. If your personal Instagram or Facebook tells the story of your life, then LinkedIn tells the story of your career. LinkedIn is where you demonstrate your knowledge of the field and share relevant articles and information with your peers.
LinkedIn offers connection and exposure. Your known contacts may not know exactly what your career entails or why you’re good at it, but LinkedIn allows them to gain better understanding into that. In theory, when your LinkedIn contact knows of a need for someone in your field, your LinkedIn profile and activity provide them information to share with others. Additionally, LinkedIn offers exposure to strangers who may need your expertise. Hiring managers and recruiters use this online tool extensively to research candidates for particular needs.
LinkedIn provides an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and experience. People who have worked with you can attest to your specific skills and provide positive feedback to others in need of someone with your expertise.
Now that we have looked at only 3 reasons LinkedIn is useful (there are many reasons), let’s look at 3 ways to use LinkedIn today.
3 Ways to Use LinkedIn Today
Complete your LinkedIn profile. If you haven’t done so already, take 30 minutes to complete your profile with every detail that would be relevant and beneficial to networking your business or yourself on LinkedIn. Additionally, if your business doesn’t have a LinkedIn profile, spend the rest of your time creating that. Details matter. Since LinkedIn is a resource for consumers, colleagues, hiring managers and more, use it to your advantage by providing as many helpful details as possible. Invest in a headshot photo as well. Here are some tips for a great headshot.
Make connections with your contacts and send requests or accept requests as needed. Spend time connecting with people from your high school, college, graduate school or professional school as appropriate. LinkedIn is about making professional connections, so this is an important step.
Read some articles from experts in your field. Add to the conversation with a comment, like, or other helpful feedback. Spending about 5 minutes per day doing this is helpful when you need a break from other tasks in order establish yourself as a player in your field.
LinkedIn is a great tool for you to establish yourself professionally. If your profile is stagnant, take some time to refresh it and get active on the platform. This should not be a time consuming effort, but spending 5-10 minutes per day can help build meaningful connections that are helpful in the future.
We would love to help you sparkle and shine your profile on any social media platform if you’re not sure where to start. Click the button today for a free consultation on your social media outlets.