Get LinkedIn or Get Left Out

I am always surprised when business owners, professionals or job seekers tell me that they are not on LinkedIn. Perhaps I live in a social media bubble, but I want to shake them and say, “Do you know how many opportunities you’re missing?!” Instead, I kindly suggest that they join and calmly explain the value. Here are the top two reasons why everyone (including you) should be on LinkedIn:

Search Function: LinkedIn users are able to do a keyword search and find users with the keyword in their profiles.

• For example, I used the keyword search to find people who were involved in fundraising to let them know about a new resource (Legacy Benefit Auctions). Recruiters use the same function to find job seekers.
• On the flip side, I have also been contacted by several business owners and professionals who came across my profile when looking for Public Relations or Social Media services or even just for networking purposes.
• Tip: Make sure to include key words in your profile that reflect your expertise. Think about which keywords someone would use when searching for an individual with your skill set, and then sprinkle them into your bio

Web Site Traffic: LinkedIn is one of Bolt Public Relations’ top referring sites.

• Your profile can be a mini-landing page for your business, so it is important to include a link to your web site.
• Tip: Join groups and participate in discussions. After you post a comment in a discussion forum, include a signature at the end that includes your business name and link to your Web site. If group members are intrigued or impressed by your comment, they will go straight to your Web site. Make it your goal to participate in a discussion or answer a question at least a few times a week for maximum exposure.

If the idea of setting up a strategic LinkedIn profile or managing your LinkedIn visibility is overwhelming, Bolt offers social media management services and consulting. We would be more that happy to meet with you to help you set up your profile and map out a plan for you. This would include discussing your goals, from finding a job to boosting traffic and positioning you as an expert in your given industry, in order to set up a successful strategy. You should know your purpose before joining any social medium.

For more information about Bolt PR, visit http://www.boltpr.com. And please, connect with me if you are on LinkedIn.

By: Anne Carr