10 Things To Immediately Start Doing On LinkedIn Frequently

John Hall

Many of us visit sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter on a daily — even hourly — basis. We actively participate by reading, commenting, and posting on these channels and devour hours’ worth of others’ content on these platforms.  

And then there’s LinkedIn. We may not even remember the last time we signed in to the professional social network, but it constantly lingers in the background — and for good reason. As entrepreneurs and business executives, this is the social network we should visit every day. It connects us to people and ideas that can advance our careers and our businesses.

It’s time to dust off this critical social media profile and start doing these 10 things every day to tap into opportunities for new partnerships, revenue streams, talent, and funding. As someone who highly values my time, I want to make the most of it — and these 10 daily actions have maximized my LinkedIn visits. 

1. Designate five minutes a day to engage.
One of the most valuable things I’ve seen recently: people who are surprised when I respond to their messages. I can’t reply to everyone. However, I spend about five minutes after my morning run either answering a LinkedIn message or engaging in some way with the comments left on one of my posts. It’s a short amount of time, but it can make a difference, resulting in new advocates and business opportunities. 

3. Create original content.
Think of LinkedIn as another site for sharing thought leadership. Don’t be political or mean-spirited or do anything that puts your job or reputation at risk. However, do exercise the creative freedom to write an in-depth piece that will be valuable to your network. It could be on your industry or a niche field you’re interested in personally — anything that communicates your experience and passion is a plus. The best part is that you don’t have to contend with an outside editor who might tear the piece apart.

See all 10 things and the complete Forbes article

8 LinkedIn Features You're Not Using (But Should Be)

By Young Entrepreneur Council

Since its launch, LinkedIn has been the go-to social media platform for professionals in every industry. From its ability to connect like-minded businesses and career-focused professionals to its groups dedicated to fostering community and thought leadership, it’s a very powerful tool for companies, in more ways than one.

When it comes to utilizing the platform to its fullest extent, there may be some surprising strategies that most companies, including yours, may be overlooking. Below, a panel of entrepreneurs each shared one crucial LinkedIn feature your company should be using, and why each is so effective. 

LinkedIn Jobs

It makes sense that LinkedIn, a platform for professionals, is a prime spot to post your job opening. And yet, Andy Karuza, founder of FenSens, says he's come across a surprising number of companies that still aren't using LinkedIn Jobs.

"The companies I know that do use LinkedIn are having fantastic results with more qualified candidates -- and lots of them," Karuza says. "I think the best feature is that you can clearly see people's LinkedIn profiles, which includes recommendations, so you can learn a little bit more than just seeing a resume."

LinkedIn Pulse

If you've ever received a notification that someone in your LinkedIn network has published an article, you've proven that LinkedIn Pulse, the platform's self-publishing tool, works. This easy-to-use feature allows brands to upload content, receive feedback and share it with others, says Stephanie Wells, founder of Formidable Forms.

"Few businesses leverage this feature," Wells says. "It's super effective because like-minded professionals are already on there scanning content, so it might as well be yours."

See all 8 features and the complete Inc.com article

5 STEPS TO BUILDING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS USING LINKEDIN

by Tarra Jackson

Many entrepreneurs face challenges with determining what social media platform to use to connect them with the right audience. Attracting new business in the ever-changing digital age can be a long, arduous process, but creating strategic partnerships is a smart path to success.

“Finding the right strategic partnership can be the difference between having a successful business or just making it,” explains Deborrah Ashley, LinkedIn Marketing Strategist.

Entrepreneurs and leaders are now turning to LinkedIn to find and cultivate strategic partnerships. However, before setting up or updating your profile, here are a few tips to leverage LinkedIn to build strategic partnerships.

1) KNOW YOUR OUTCOME

The key to creating the right strategic partnerships is understanding the desired outcome. Whether it is brand awareness, lead generation, or to be known as a brand authority or thought leader, understanding your goals for using LinkedIn is important. This helps you to connect with the right professionals, entrepreneurs, clients, or customers.

2) OPTIMIZE YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE

The profile picture is the first impression of you. Have a professional or industry-related profile picture that aligns with your brand or desired messaging.

The headline is the section at the top of the profile for a professional description in 120 characters or less. Customizing the profile description will help you to distinguish yourself. Ashley also recommends having the “about” section completed as well as getting testimonials from current or past co-workers or clients.

Customizing the banner image of your LinkedIn profile is a great way to brand your expertise or key message. The standard default blue banner will not optimize your professional identity. LinkedIn allows users to customize their banner image.

“Showcasing industry qualifications, accreditation, or media mentions will build credibility. This could be the deciding factor for possible strategic partners. Also, highlighting your contact information on the banner image makes it easier for people to connect with you,” shares Ashley.

See steps 3-5 and the complete article