A LinkedIn presence is an essential part of business in today’s digital world. Photo: ©istock.com/kycstudio
Ready to make the most of your LinkedIn account? Here’s how you can achieve a lasting first impression.
Every day, we work to create a lasting first impression. From our appearance to our demeanor, we strive to make sure we represent ourselves as best we can while networking.
A LinkedIn presence is an essential part of business in today’s digital world. Although some might consider LinkedIn a résumé depository, it can also be a powerful networking tool. There are some compelling statistics to support this: In a recent study, 87 percent of 1,900 LinkedIn users say they trust it as a source of information affecting their decision-making, while 49 percent consider LinkedIn a reliable source for word-of-mouth information about brand experiences.
Ninety percent of LinkedIn users believe it helps them connect with people from their respective industry as possible clients, and is more professional than Facebook.
With that in mind, let’s review tips for optimizing your LinkedIn profile and business page:
⦁ Use your personal email address. LinkedIn requires all its users to create a personal profile, which requires a personal address rather than a business address. If you want people to connect with your company, direct them to your company page from LinkedIn.
⦁ Create a company LinkedIn page as a way to enhance your company’s presence and image online.
⦁ Keep your profile complete and current. LinkedIn is another way to connect with people, so tell your story, focusing on your specialties and skills. If you take the time to do this, people will understand you and what you stand for better. They’ll be more likely to see you as a trusted expert.
⦁ Join groups. Seek out the most relevant groups for your industry. (Editor’s Note: See below for some pest management industry favorites.) Post questions, start discussions and engage with other discussions. This will help you become well received and respected.
⦁ “Like” updates and discussions when appropriate.
⦁ Ask for recommendations. We all know how far a positive review from a client or peer goes. Just ask.
⦁ Invite people to your LinkedIn company page. (But don’t overwhelm them with constant repeated invites.)
On the other hand…
⦁ Don’t post personal or unprofessional content. This is a professional network, where lasting impressions count.
⦁ Don’t continually post about you, your business or your products. People don’t want to hear about you all the time. An occasional reminder is better.
⦁ Don’t be unprofessional. Think about what you’re about to post before you post it. How would your mother feel about it? If you don’t think Mom would give you the stamp of approval, don’t post it.
⦁ Don’t accept every invitation to connect. Filter accordingly so your account remains relevant to you.
⦁ Don’t forget to update your company page. Did you add new employees? Win another award? Brag about it on LinkedIn.
Following these recommendations will help you build a strong, credible LinkedIn profile and by extension, a strong, credible personal brand.
Recommended pest industry LinkedIn Groups include:
• Bug Business
• Pest Control
• Pest Control/Bed Bug Professional Group
• Pest Control Professional Network
• Pest Management Network
• Pest Management Professionals Marketing Network
• PCO Business Solutions – Pest Control Solutions
[Sources: Slideshare, SocialTimes]
Contact Pest Management Professional contributor Teri Mason at terri@howtogosocial.com or 201-822-5167.
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