Are You Linked In?

The tools used in social media in today’s world are amazing. There are so many ways to communicate with each other. I watched my 11-year-old grandson seamlessly work through social media vehicles with ease the other day. It made me wonder how social media will affect the next generation of fundraisers after I pass the torch. There are many tools individuals use to display the organization or themselves daily. One vehicle that I like to use is LinkedIn.

The article titled “What Is LinkedIn and Why Should You Be on It?” states that LinkedIn is a social network for professionals. It connects any kind of executive with other executives and is like a traditional networking event where you go and meet other professionals in person, talk and exchange business cards. LinkedIn’s main feature is the home tab, which displays the user’s personal news feed and profile—name, photo, location, occupation and other information.

There is also a section called “My Network” where you will find professionals you are currently connected with and a search bar where you can find specific professionals, companies, etc. There are many other important features on LinkedIn: You can use the information gleaned from research to get in touch with colleagues; use your profile as an active resume; use LinkedIn to apply for jobs; and do research to find current or new professionals in your field. My favorite section in LinkedIn allows me to post my fresh weekly blog material. I also like the section where I can post photos, so people can see my various activities.

According to Forbes, in a study of respondents by ROI Research, 59 percent of respondents said LinkedIn is their most important account on social networks.

Here are nine reasons why:

1. It’s big! It is the largest professional network with 400 million members worldwide and growing.
2. It shows up first. Your profile is likely to be seen at the top of a list.
3. It helps you stay in touch even if colleagues move from job to job.
4. It provides Google juice that leads people to your website.
5. It’ comprehensive as its manages all of your contacts.
6. It lets others speak for you through endorsements and recommendations.
7. It is always available to keep relationships in shape.
8. It’s exclusively focused on business for serious minded professionals.
9. It helps keep the saw sharp by finding key people such as trainers and mentors.

If I have not encouraged you to join me on LinkedIn yet, here are four additional reasons why you should, according to Brandwatch:

1. To Provide the Google-verse with positive information about you. Your information is reviewed by the right contacts and a quality LinkedIn profile will ensure that your prospects have a greater chance of being on your side.

2. To improve your search engine optimization and web presence. An optimized LinkedIn profile can help connect you with prospects who didn’t know you previously. Working in a good amount of search engine optimized keywords can put you at the top of Google search results.

3. To attract prospects by showing them how you can benefit them. Keep in mind that your LinkedIn profile should be less about you and more about what you can do for your prospects. If you want clients, make sure it shows how your products or services can improve your client’s lives. The same holds true if you are looking for employment.

4. To show that you are a orofessional. Your potential prospects will not only be judging your profile by its content but also by the way the content is presented. Take the LinkedIn network seriously.

I use LinkedIn to promote myself, my company and my blog posts. I have been successful in obtaining business contacts that I would never have obtained without that vehicle. I also find that LinkedIn engagement is all over the place. Many executives take it seriously and constantly monitor their profile while other LinkedIn executives rarely view their profile and do not communicate with others. It is an important social media tool. I encourage you to join and link with me and my contacts today. It is all almost communication. Are you linked in with others?