How to Find the Most Fascinating People on LinkedIn

Brittany Walters-Bearden

Let me preface this piece by stating that developing a LinkedIn strategy might not involve the same star power as, say, Barbara Walters’ The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2014.

Chances are that you’re not going to aim to meet Amal Clooney via LinkedIn.

But if you’re not using LinkedIn to build your personal brand and connect with fascinating people, you’re missing out. Here are just some of the ways I've used the social network to meet the following types of professionals:

1. Guest bookers, media producers and editors. 

In my time using LinkedIn, I have booked a number of interviews for myself and some guest pieces requested, without my consciously making an attempt to connect to media professionals. They found me.

And I, as a publicist, was able to share some of the love with my clients. Even if you’re not working in public relations, know that there are media contacts out there who are looking for sources. Some of the friendliest editors and producers I have connected with found me via LinkedIn. 

If you make a concerted effort to contribute to LinkedIn Groups and have the good fortune that these media professionals find you, you can end up with press you haven't been directly seeking. 
The media folks that find you could be guest bookers for a podcast syndicated in five major markets or the editor of a respectable publication that's not yet a household name. The resulting media coverage will be something you’re proud to share via your website, social media and newsletter and can leverage to attract bigger opportunities. 

2. Clients.

The clients you can meet through LinkedIn are usually easier to sell to because they are already familiar with you, what you do and your message, thanks to the guest pieces and blog posts you share in your LinkedIn Groups.

People become fans and start tracking your profile. Or they stumble across you,  a member of one of their LinkedIn Groups, read your bio and realize you’re just what they have been missing. 

Ways to find interesting people 3-6 and the complete entrepreneur article