15 small business tips to become a networking pro
Post on 13-Sep-2014
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Having the right connections on LinkedIn can create breakthrough opportunities for your small business, from raising funds to making your first big sale. But how do you find and engage the right contacts? How do you network on LinkedIn in an effective, assertive, and professional way? We explored this topic at our first LinkedIn Live event in Blacksburg, Virginia, where local LinkedIn experts and business leaders shared tactics for effective networking on LinkedIn. Here are some top tips from the day. To learn more about how to make the most of LinkedIn for your small business, visit us at http://smallbusiness.linkedin.com, or follow us on Twitter at @LinkedInSMB.TRANSCRIPT
15 Small Business Tips to Become a Networking Pro
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Having the right connections can create big opportunities
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From building new partnerships
To hiring top talent
But finding business contacts can be tough
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But finding business contacts can be tough
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Who do I connect with?
When do I engage with them?
How do I engage with them?
How do I find them?
How can they help me?
So where do you start?
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First things first, you need to be credible
Optimize your profile
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Put a face to the name Members with profile photos are more than 7x
more likely to be found in searches
Create a crisp, punchy headline Highlight what makes you different, speak directly to your
audience, and use keywords to be found in LinkedIn search
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Tell the full story of you
Showcase your professional career, growth, and accomplishments in the Summary and Experience sections of your profile
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Let your network speak for you
Make your profile come to life with Endorsements and Recommendations from colleagues, employers, and customers
With an all-star LinkedIn profile, you’re ready to be found
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But being found takes time
You need contacts
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now
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It’s time to put your network to use
Find contacts on LinkedIn
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Define your goal
Determine the core attributes of the people you’re searching for. For example, 5+ years marketing experience and currently working
in the software industry.
Search on LinkedIn Search using keywords that illustrate what
type of connection you’re looking for
Search on LinkedIn Narrow down your results with search facets
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Access LinkedIn Groups
Join groups that relate to your networking goals, and identify thought leaders through post and engagement activity
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Focus on quality, not quantity The value of your LinkedIn network comes from the connections who want to help your succeed, such as fellow alumni
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Think long term Although a connection may not have have direct or immediate relevance for you, they could help you access key business contacts in the future
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Identify the ‘network hubs’ Evaluate your connections and view their network snapshot to see who can help you access contacts with specific skills, in particular industries, or at companies of interest
Leave the office
Get out of the building and network in person – it’s hard to beat old fashioned handshakes. Remember to close the loop after meeting new contacts by reaching out on LinkedIn.
Online works well, but don’t forget to…
You’ve done your research and found the right people
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Now it’s time to reach out
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Engage on LinkedIn
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Participate in LinkedIn Groups
Legitimize yourself as a potential business contact – share your knowledge with influencers on LinkedIn Groups
Get a warm introduction Leverage your network and get introduced
to potential business contacts through mutual connections
Send a message Reach out to anyone on LinkedIn with InMail. Break the ice by
complimenting their work or stating your intentions.
You’ve engaged contacts, demonstrated value,
and started the conversation
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Now you’re networking like a pro
Find out more: Premium.linkedin.com/tour
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