LinkedIn is my 2nd favorite Social Networking site, for Business that is. For fun purposes, I would go to Youtube. Linkedin is a tremendous resource for small businesses and can be a powerful source for leads and information to help grow your business, without spending a dime. No, it’s not all free because you still have to allocate resources, in-house or outsourced ( a company like ours) to execute a rounded social media campaign.

Here are strategies to use LinkedIn for business growth, brand awareness, and lead generation:

1. LinkedIn Groups: LinkedIn has dozens and dozens of groups. You will find groups on pretty much any topic under the sun. By joining groups, you can participate and learn more about others and find ways to develop your business. In addition to joining groups that are in your industry, try to join groups that are outside your area of expertise. Or better yet, start a group that may fill a gap or provides a niche focus. By engaging in groups, you will form connections with people you'd never meet otherwise. You can grow  your network, extend your reach, and conduct business development using subtle methods that most networkers are open to.
    
2. LinkedIn Answers: Have you even checked this section out? Most people think of "adding connections" and focus on that activity. However, LinkedIn answers is one of the most under-utilized tools that LinkedIn provides business owners. It is great for asking questions, seeking advice, or simply brainstorming. Not only can you ask questions, by responding to questions asked by members, you can establish yourself as an expert in your domain. a regular basis can help you establish yourself as a thought leader. The best part about this is that you can include your signature in all your responses which will result in people clicking through to learn more about you.
    
3. LinkedIn Connections: Sales peoples want contacts.LinkedIn has them. LinkedIn has a robust search feature which allows you to search on people based on many criteria including company name, expertise, location, and more. You can also refine your search based on people you are connected to in groups or limiting your search to those who are 2nd connections only.

Then there are some LinkedIn features that can absolutely drive everyone nuts. But practice does make perfect!
 
Marketing has become complicated and tedious. It used to be that marketing was traveling to trade shows, contacting people by phone and letters, and basically making the rounds to develop the business. Now, we have to do all that and more. A carefully crafted LinkedIn strategy, combined with other strategies that include email marketing, Twitter marketing, content promotion, content creation (blogs, videos, etc.) CAN AND WILL generate Return on Investment (ROI) and Return on Engagement (ROE).

So now that you've got some pointers, go ahead and get started. But if you lack the time or the skilled resources, we'd love to help you with your campaign. Contact us for a quote today! For more info please visit: <a style="text-decoration: none" href="http://www.workbootsnerd.com/"><font color="#555555">workbootsnerd.com</font></a>.