LinkedIn is more than a job-seekers platform—it's a powerful tool for businesses looking to grow and connect with a professional audience. With over 310 million active users, LinkedIn offers a direct way to reach professionals, industry leaders, and large organizations that you may not access as well on other platforms. LinkedIn also helps you stay current on industry trends, build meaningful connections, and even mentor or support causes you care about. As the most business-focused social media platform, depending on your brand, it might just be the piece you are missing.
How to Get Started:
1) Set up and optimize your LinkedIn profile
Take the time to fill in all the sections and fully complete your profile to your brand standards before you start posting.
Profile Picture & banner: Use a professional photo and a banner that reflects your brand (e.g., logo, tagline, or industry-related imagery).
Headline: Clearly state who you are and what value your business offers. Include relevant keywords.
About section: Tell your business story, highlighting how you solve client problems and what makes you unique. Remember to include a call to action (CTA).
Contact info: Make it easy for people to reach out by providing your website, email, and phone number.
2) Develop a content strategy
You don't want to simply start cross-posting your Instagram content to LinkedIn. For optimal results, it is essential you take the time to develop a specific content strategy that speaks to your LinkedIn audience and supports your goals for the platform.
3) Engage with your network
Regularly send connection requests to potential clients, partners, or influencers in your industry. After making connections, send personalized messages introducing your services and asking how you can help. Regularly follow up with leads and connections, building relationships over time.
You can also engage with content, commenting thoughtfully on posts within your industry, offering advice, or sharing your perspective. This will help you grow your network while subtly promoting your expertise.
4) Use all the LinkedIn features
Like all social media platforms, you can share various forms of content on LinkedIn. In addition to posts, consider using some of these features to expand your reach:
LinkedIn Articles: Write long-form content to establish yourself as a thought leader. Dive deep into industry topics, how-tos, or trends.
Polls: Run polls to engage your audience and get insights about their needs.
LinkedIn Events: Promote your webinars, events, or workshops on LinkedIn to engage with your audience in real time.
5) Track and Measure Results
Monitor which posts perform best, track your profile views, and measure engagement levels. Based on the insights, you can further refine your content strategy and outreach approach.
What to Post:
Not sure what to post? No problem! Here are three easy-to-customize posts to get you started!
Post 1: Introduction & Storytelling
Introduce yourself and your business in a relatable and authentic way.
Content Idea: Share the story of why you started your business, what inspired you, and what problem you're passionate about solving.
Post Structure:
Start with a hook
Share the challenge or opportunity that led to starting the business.
Talk about the values that drive your business.
End with a call to action.
Example:
"It all started with a simple idea: I wanted to help [target market] with [specific problem]. Over the years, that idea has turned into a mission to make [industry] more [accessible, personalized, etc.]. At [your business name], we focus on [core values]. I'd love to connect with others who are passionate about making a difference in [your field]. Feel free to reach out or drop a comment below!"
Post 2: Industry Insight or Tip
Position yourself as knowledgeable in your field by sharing valuable information.
Content Idea: Offer an actionable tip, insight, or trend that's relevant to your target audience. Focus on providing value without directly promoting your services.
Post Structure:
Start with an interesting statistic or fact.
Share your perspective or a tip based on your expertise.
Ask a question to engage your audience.
Example:
"Did you know that [interesting statistic/trend] is changing how businesses approach [your industry]? At [your business name], we've seen [specific trend or shift], and here's one way to stay ahead: [short tip or piece of advice]. How are you addressing this change in your business?"
Post 3: Client Success Story or Testimonial
Build trust by showcasing real-world results your business has achieved, while keeping the focus on the client's success.
Content Idea: Share a brief story about how your product/service helped a client overcome a challenge. Use this opportunity to highlight the value you bring without being overly promotional.
Post Structure:
Start with the client's challenge.
Briefly explain how you worked together to solve it.
End with the positive outcome and an open invitation to connect.
Example:
"I love seeing the positive impact we can have on businesses! Recently, we worked with a client who was struggling with [specific challenge]. By [briefly describe solution], we were able to help them [achieve desired result]. It's always rewarding to see our work make a difference. If you're curious about how we can help you tackle similar challenges, we welcome you to connect with us!"
Need more help with getting started on LinkedIn or your online communications? Reach out to us to set up a free consultation!
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