LinkedIn is just like any other marketing tool – you have to have a goal and a strategy to get there. LinkedIn can be used to make new business connections and potential leads, to apply for job positions and to build business relationships in your target geography. 

What is LinkedIn? An online resume. Instead of meeting someone and convincing them of reading your resume/portfolio – LinkedIn works opposite. People look at your accomplishments before even meeting you. 

No matter what your goal – the basic process of using LinkedIn is the same. 

1. Create a strong profile. Make sure you fill in all the fields. Then, start making connections with people you already know. The more connections you have, the more credible you look. Also make sure to have at LEAST 2 strong references from people you trust. 

2. Set a goal for your LinkedIn. What do you want to accomplish from using it? What types of people would you like to make connections with and what do you want from those connections? Maybe you need to make 5 new sales in the next 30 days from small business owners. Make that your goal! 

3. Target specific companies or people. Once you set your goal you should know who you need to target. Check out your connections’ connections! See who your 2nd and 3rd degree connections are and request an introduction. 

Stay tuned for more information on LinkedIn… or join our conference call this Friday @ 2:30 EST

How to Make LinkedIn Work for You