With more than 18 million companies currently using LinkedIn, it can be difficult to make yours stand out. Luckily, Reid Hoffman (co-founder of LinkedIn) offers a way to break down the masses by industry, interest, and intent with LinkedIn Groups.
LinkedIn Groups are virtual hubs on LinkedIn that provide a “place for professionals in the same industry or with similar interests to share content, find answers, post and view jobs, make business contacts, and establish themselves as industry experts.”
There are nearly 2.1 million groups on LinkedIn – which is still a LOT – but when broken down by industry, it’s much more manageable.
Unsure how to get started? I’ve rounded up the basics below to help you begin to take advantage of LinkedIn Groups.
Joining groups is fairly easy – as long as you have a LinkedIn account. Just visit www.linkedin.com/groups and select “Discover.”
If you’ve already filled out your profile, LinkedIn will automatically suggest a myriad of groups based on your industry, experience, and more. For those of us in public relations, you may see suggestions like PR Professionals, Social Media Today, or your local PRSA chapter, to name a few.
By clicking “My Groups,” users can see a full list of the groups they are a member of, sort based on name or industry, and view the groups they’re waiting to be admitted access to. Once inside each group, users can view and connect with other members, solicit feedback on relevant topics or participate in existing conversations, and even view jobs available in the related field.
So now you know how to join, but maybe you’re still not convinced. Here are just four of the major benefits you’ll see after using the LinkedIn Groups feature:
Engage
Joining LinkedIn Groups allows users to engage with other members through topical and industry-related conversations. Whether it’s liking a recently shared article or sharing your two cents on an ongoing discussion, LinkedIn Groups facilitate additional networking opportunities with fellow industry pros. They also give you a chance to show ‘em what you’re working with!
Share
Another benefit to LinkedIn Groups is the ability to share relevant content and solicit feedback. Working on a new proposal or just trying to get some advice on your recent blog post? Share it in various groups to get constructive criticism. LinkedIn Groups are also a great place to find sharable content for curation!
Connect
Not only do LinkedIn Groups allow you to engage with other industry pros, but they can help connect you with potential clients, employees/employers, and more. This networking platform offers a deeper dive into each industry, allowing users to familiarize themselves by reviewing expert opinions, content, and more.
Influence
By regularly sharing content and participating in group discussions, users will begin to make a name for themselves as industry leaders. Other group members may privately message you for advice, and leaders in other industries might look to you for expert advice in your field. Either way, you’ll be getting your name out there in the best possible way.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of advantages when it comes to using LinkedIn Groups to expand and showcase your industry knowledge. Interested in getting help? Set up a consultation with us today!
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