As social media becomes more popular, businesses are constantly looking for ways to utilize it. One of the best social media websites designed for business use is LinkedIn. By developing and maintaining a profile on this network, businesses can make professional connections with other organizations, solicit consumers and entice potential employees to apply for open positions. However, companies can’t reap the full benefit of using LinkedIn unless they know how to create and maintain an effective profile on the network.
Creating an Optimized Profile
- Use relevant keywords. When developing the content to place on its profile, a company should make use of keywords that relate to its products, services and goals. By including these keywords, the business will attract the attention of search engines, thus making the profile more visible to users who are searching for a business of that type. However, businesses should not overuse these keywords, as this can actually lower the profile’s ranking in search engine results.
- Link to the company website. Companies should always include a link to their official website on all social media profiles, including LinkedIn. Doing so allows users who locate the business’s profile to access the company’s other pages without performing another external search, thus increasing the chances of conversion. A business should also include links to its LinkedIn profile on its official website.
- Don’t skimp on details. When companies create their profiles, they should include as many useful details about their business as possible. Consumers and other businesses are more likely to interact with a company if its profile answers all of their questions.
Using the Profile
- Update frequently. Businesses should update their LinkedIn profiles regularly. Consumers, potential employees and other companies may be nervous about connecting with the company if the information on its profile is dated.
- Create and join groups. Creating a group on LinkedIn is an excellent strategy that businesses can use to connect with specific people or organizations. For example, a business specializing in software development could create a group for companies that work with computer information systems. Businesses can also join relevant groups to connect with even more organizations, professionals and potential consumers.
- Focus on local businesses and consumers. A business’s initial focus on LinkedIn should be connecting with the local population, especially if the business is small or new. After a local network is established, the business can expand its focus to other locations.
LinkedIn is a very effective networking tool for businesses in all industries. Even students who are about to graduate from a brick and mortor or online college like American InterContinental University can use this tool to reach out for potential job opportunities. After businesses develop a local network, they can begin making connections with organizations and consumers outside of their region. LinkedIn is also a popular network that attracts new users every day, so businesses that utilize it have the opportunity to reach a large audience. By following the tips above, a company can create an engaging profile that fosters the development of professional connections and attracts new consumers.
