Many people see LinkedIn as mainly as a mainly a professional social networking site. But it is actually a viable business-to-business marketing tool. Taken advantage of properly it can generate more business and revenue.
The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnership with Citi, YEC recently launched StartupCollective, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. BlackEnterprise.com reached out to the collective’s membership to find out: What is one piece of advice for generating leads, sales or even contracts using LinkedIn? Here are their 13 ways to best tap into LinkedIn.
1. Offer Up Your Network First
When I have a trusted contact, I offer them to cull through my LinkedIn contacts and tell me who would be a great asset to them to meet. Then I warm up the introduction with that person and get the go-ahead to connect them. Oftentimes the favor will be repaid and it’s a great way to both learn who are great contacts for your network as well as to generate new warm leads for yourself.
– Darrah Brustein, Network Under 40 / Finance Whiz Kids
2. Upgrade Your LinkedIn Account
When it comes to social networks, I’m not one to typically pay for pro features. But with LinkedIn, I make an exception. The premium features on LinkedIn are a fantastic way to generate leads and gain more contacts because you’re able to more easily connect. LinkedIn has a lot of package options for upgrading from a free account. You can do so for different durations of time, too.
3. Activate Your Network
If you’re looking for an introduction or have just met someone who could be a potential customer, check LinkedIn to see who you know in common and who might be able to make a warm introduction. Once you’ve connected, share company updates and look for opportunities to engage that person with useful advice, insightful commentary or by connecting them to helpful resources.
– David Ehrenberg, Early Growth Financial Services
4. Get Your Employees Involved
It’s easy to forget that every employee at your company has his or her own network that he or she has been building for years. Outline which qualities you’re looking for in a great lead, then empower your employees to help you search for people in their own networks that meet the criteria. It’s a low-cost, high-return method for expanding your customer base.
5. Run LinkedIn Ads
LinkedIn Ads have an easy-to-implement feature that allows you to collect email addresses for interested potential leads. Set up your ad, and your landing page will automatically have a lead collection form. This feature might make LinkedIn the best platform for B2B leads in a short timeframe.
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