Business networking isn’t an endeavor you have to relegate to one monolithic space or function. Savvy professionals know how to remain “on” in every situation, whether that’s in a networking event, interfacing with clients, or even through social media platforms. Of course, when we discuss social media and business professionalism, we have to mention LinkedIn, the web’s top resource for it.
Here’s a quick spotlight on the ways to use LinkedIn for its networking advantages. This will include leveraging it for lucrative network events as well.
LinkedIn – Ways to Network Through It
It’s hard to achieve career mobility without LinkedIn, nowadays. Active professionals use it to find jobs, market their skills and services, hire others, and stay tuned into developments in their field. In the old days, you had to rely on trade journals and primitive advertising, whereas LinkedIn allows you to accomplish all of that (and more) in one digital location.
Content Creation – You can establish yourself as a reliable subject expert by publishing original content. Nothing attracts new clients, better job opportunities, and overall positive attention like publishing solid articles that vouch for your specific industry expertise.
LinkedIn Groups – Joining groups on LinkedIn is a remarkably fast way to network with minimal effort. Whenever you contribute or share something interesting, like-minded professionals will find it, and get them to notice your profile (and business).
Finding People – Then there’s the ever-important “search” feature on LinkedIn. This is how you can locate relevant clientele (or be found by them). It allows users to perform target keyword searches, name searches, and advanced queries to include geographic locations, industries, job titles, and more.
Network Events – What to Do When You Attend?
Don’t neglect the opportunity to find live or online networking events through LinkedIn. We use it ourselves to cultivate an effective niche following around the SRQ area.
Of course, if you attend a networking event, it helps to know what to expect beforehand. Here are some quick reminders on how to capitalize on a network event:
- Craft a good “30-second story” for your business and be ready to share it with other attendees frequently.
- Whenever you talk with event patrons, remember to invite them to learn about your business by checking out your website and/or LinkedIn profile.
- Carry business cards and consider offering free business samples (tactfully, of course).
- Always remember to show interest in OTHER businesses at the event. This shows that you’re willing to give and receive as a well-rounded entrepreneur.
That’s a quick primer on LinkedIn, business networking, and attending events.
SRQ Business Alliance puts a special emphasis on that latter part with the ones we host periodically in Sarasota. It’s an important component of our local business networking alliance, which helps SRQ entrepreneurs partner with like-minded folks. We’ve formed a delightful team with everything from restaurants and law offices to barber shops and automotive dealerships.
Contact us to learn more about our mission by calling 800-807-0331.