If you’re reading this, we assume you already have a LinkedIn profile and are familiar with the platform. (If not, what are you waiting for?) What you might not know, however, is that the social networking site is more than just a digital resume.
LinkedIn has enabled companies to share more information, recruit employees, gain valuable customer feedback, generate new ideas and more. Using the following platform tools strategically will help position you as an industry thought leader and lend additional credibility to your brand.
Take advantage of 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.” In order to connect with people in your industry, LinkedIn provides users with a recommended list of groups based on the information in their profiles.
Connect with your peers in a more meaningful way by starting discussions on hot topics in the industry or learning more about a new vertical with the help of an expert. For more on how to get started with LinkedIn Groups, click here.
Show and tell in your profile.
The first impression is everything, especially in the professional world. LinkedIn ranks users’ profiles based on the amount of information included. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is at the “All-Star” level by including your industry, position, location, a profile summary and a minimum of 5 skills.
Take it a step further by breaking your job description into different roles and responsibilities. For example, at Dittoe PR, I’m not just an Account Executive. I oversee strategic communications, professional writing, media relations, event planning, social media, design, and reporting among many other responsibilities. By including additional information in your profile, future employers and industry peers will see the value you provide to the industry at a single glace.
Ask for endorsements and recommendations.
In addition to including skills in your profile, users can seek endorsements for those skills from their colleagues, former employers, industry peers and more. Each profile should feature a minimum of five industry-related skills to both achieve “All-Star” status and share an overview of what you bring to the table.
Set yourself apart by requesting recommendations or statements written by a LinkedIn member to recognize or commend a connection, such as a colleague, business partner or student. People who view your profile will often read the recommendations you’ve received from your connections to see what others have to say about your work.
Questions? Leave them in the comments below or send us a DM on social media (yes – even LinkedIn) and we’ll get back to you!
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