Does this sound familiar? You’ve heard great things about LinkedIn. You’ve collected a bevy of LinkedIn connections. Yet, you’re sure that really exploring this business-oriented social media channel will just take too much time.
It’s OK. Time is invaluable and limited. No need to invest endless hours, though, to find tremendous value from LinkedIn.
How about devoting one hour a week to LinkedIn? Here’s how to make the most of those 60 minutes:
Stay in tune: The people in your professional network have lots going on – new jobs, projects, awards, connections, original writings, and other interesting happenings. Your news feed (on the “Home” page) has them all. Catch up on what others are doing. Interact by commenting on some updates, or clicking “Like” on a few. Or, find a reason to send someone a greeting or note of congratulations.
Share an update: LinkedIn helps you stay in front of your customers, prospective customers and important contacts. Offer an update that pertains to your business or area of expertise: An interesting article, blog post or video. Add a brief introduction to demonstrate your knowledge.
Update your profile: Has your job title (and responsibilities) changed? Have you completed new projects? Did you join an organization? Have you won an award or earned a certification? Your LinkedIn profile is your professional face to the world – update it to reflect new honors, activities and achievements.
Expand your network: The larger your network, the more opportunities it holds. Whom have you met recently? Send them a network invitation with a personalized message.
This only scratches the surface of LinkedIn, which is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships and developing business. Its potential runs far deeper. Once you make using LinkedIn a habit, chances are you’ll find it a worthwhile investment of much more time.
-Rick Moon provides LinkedIn training and profile writing services through Lunar Communications, a Brookfield-based marketing communications firm.
