3. Leverage your existing natural network. Go to “Add Connections” in the navigation menu and make sure that you go through all the four connection channels. Find potential connections whom you want to be part of your network. Don’t just do this once, do this at least once a month so you can also expand your network as LinkedIn continues to grow its membership. Again, remember that engaging in a social media marketing campaign means allotting time and effort. Building a relationship online takes commitment.
4. Make sure you have timely and relevant status updates. As a member of a professional business network, you should ensure that your status updates add value to business. They should be relevant and timely. Sammons suggests spreading out your updates. This means posting at least three updates in a day. LinkedIn Today is the site’s top news tool. You can customize your news according to the industry which you belong to and share stories to your network. You can even see articles followed by your connections.
5. Participate in group discussions. Check out the “Groups” tab on your LinkedIn page. There are many ways to find and participate in groups which you want to be part of. Choose at least three (five, at most, so you can keep track of the quality of your participation) groups which are relevant to your industry or to your target market. Join the discussion at least once a week. According to Sammons, this is a good way to stay “valuable and visible.” If you find it hard to commit time each week to do this, take advantage of the LinkedIn mobile application which allows you participate in group discussions while on the go. When sharing in your chosen group, apply tip #4. Be relevant. Be valuable. Don’t hesitate to ask questions (smart ones, hopefully) and if you think you have something useful to share, answer some and respond to comments.
As in any social media tool, consistency and dedication are key traits that will help you achieve success. Of course, life’s best teacher is experience so go online and start applying these tips now.