an introduction

Creating Your Account

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Take your time creating your profile!

- Recommend your LinkedIn connections and get recommended back (be specific)- Show off (Awards, accomplishments, designations - these show up in search results)- Explore the ‘People You May Know’ column on the right side of your homepage- Import contacts from Facebook, Twitter, Outlook (Email)

Your Company Page

- Start a conversation with followers- Share information as you would in Facebook- Provide accurate information about your organization

Your Company Page

Overview

Careers

- Add your sales reps to each product/service- Add product descriptions- A/B test your banner images

Products & Services

Employee Insights

Exemplar Brands

Zipcar

Zipcar leverages every standard feature that LinkedIn offers. They’re even sharing compelling content via their company status updates. Zipcar provides a solid example of a business that 'gets' the value of LinkedIn company pages.

Skittles

Skittles just may be the wackiest social brand on the planet. LinkedIn is much more of a suit and tie platform, not appropriate for this crazy brand. Right?

Wrong - Skittles hijacked the personal profile format and lovingly crafted a profile that personifies the brand.

Marketing Strategies

Breadcrumbs

Many users lock down their public visibility on LinkedIn. We suggest you stay as open as possible.

BenefitThe people you’re spying while browsing LinkedIn are likely individuals who already, or should, know about your brand. By simply navigating the site you’re giving others the chance to make a touchpoint with your profile, and ultimately, your Company Page.

CautionThis openness can come back to haunt you if your profile and Company Page are not 100% complete and accurate. You’ll effectively be spreading disinformation about your brand.

The Two-Way Mirror

LinkedIn is a relatively open network. Reach out to those who have shown interest in you.

BenefitPeople who are interested in you are likely interested in your business as well. Take the time to connect with individuals who ‘viewed your profile.’ This extra step goes a long way in highlighting your organization as accessible and connected.(Excellent application in H.R & Sales)

CautionThis can start a feedback loop. Make sure you connect/communicate to avoid looking like a constant stalker.

‘Create New Audience’

Tailoring your ‘Products & Services’ to individual demographics makes $ense.

BenefitOnce people arrive at your Products & Services page they’re part of your captive audience, why not tailor their experience to their demographic? This is a huge missed opportunity that many brands overlook. Imagine you’re explaining the iPhone 5’s new features to a stranger. You’re going to use a different approach, even strategy, when talking to a grade schooler -vs- a senior citizen.

OptimizeMake sure you tailor your images and video collateral to match your newly targeted demographic.

Be The Expert

LinkedIn Groups are where the platform gets social. Lots of chatter, did you bring your megaphone?

BenefitThere are two areas for you to show off your expertise in your field (Yes, you have expertise).

Participating in ‘Groups’ discussions expose you to your peers and to potential clients who are spying the forums to glean free insights from the pros.

‘LinkedIn Answers’ is another great way to give your 2¢ worth. Anyone can pose a question or give an answer. This is a great way to nurture B2B and B2C leads. Searching the topics of LinkedIn Answers is a great way to find individuals who need your services.

Thank You!