LinkedIn Opportunities to Grow Your Business

Chris Brogan had an interesting and informative blog offering guidance for using LinkedIn more effectively.  Brogan notes that beyond a professional profile, LinkedIn invites you to post and share information.  Why should you do that?  Because you can tell prospective clients and customers what you find interesting and useful.  When you share information, you spotlight your knowledge and skill set.  When you share information, you explain to prospects and existing clients what you can do for them and how you can serve their needs.  The goal of posting and sharing is to tell your unique story and provide reasons as to why someone who is looking to renovate their bath or kitchen should buy from you instead of online or down the street at a competitor. 
 

Who should you connect with on LinkedIn?

• Connect with prospects, architects, designers, builders and others who you hope to do business with.
• Connect with those you know could benefit from your expertise.
• Connect with manufacturers and representatives that you are aligned with. 
• Connect with those you respect and who can serve as mentors.

If you want to connect with friends that are not necessarily business prospects, Facebook and Twitter may be better platforms. 

Brogan points out that LinkedIn is simply a piece of software that you can use to build a better professional network and grow your business.  Similar to most other marketing mediums, you won’t get much out of the platform if you simply show up.