Best Marketing & Sales Tips on LinkedIn

Posted by InterativeU

March 11, 2009

So many people write way too much about LinkedIn or any social network. Saavy business owners and their marketers just want you to get to the point. No one has time to read all of that nonsense that makes the author feel like an expert. Consider this the Reader’s Digest version. Things to do without all the fluff.

1. Get a 100+ referrals …

Use LinkedIn for referral selling. Not only request a “recommendation” from those you do business with but if you see a prospect in their connections that might benefit from what you are selling, ask them for a referral.

2. Answer (ask) questions…

In the LinkedIn header there is a menu option titled, “Answers”. Two of the options that can get you great visibility are to Ask a Question or Answer Questions.

3. Shout out to your network…

On your home page there is a field for you to shout out what you are working on, new product launches, etc. Think of it like your LinkedIn twitter/facebook wall thingy.

4. Create a company profile…

Again, returning to the header on LinkedIn, there is option titled “Companies”. First search for your company. If it is not there, add your company profile.

5. Mine for your ideal customer…

If you are like most businesses, the top 20% of your current customer base is probably generating 80% of your income. Look up your current customers. Search for those that are like them. Do your research and your profits can increase exponentially. I’m a big believer in being proactive and going after the customer rather than waiting for them to notice me.

6. In this economy - there is strength in numbers…

Form strategic alliances, meet new people, and contribute to a Group. Join groups where you can learn and contribute to your peers. Don’t forget to join those that hold your ideal customers as well. A group does you no good if you sit in silence. Start or participate in a Group Discussion.

7. Get in the news…

Submit your latest blog post, press release or other newsworthy item to your group(s).

Article written by Deb Murray, Founder, Soaring Interactive Media. You may republish under Creative Commons agreement, providing you provide full attribution to Soaring and this webpage.