LinkedIn is one of the most popular social networks in the world today, and it boasts more than 150 million members around the world. Just because it is a bit different from other social networks, such as Twitter and Facebook, some companies neglect it. However, this could be a bad business decision. You will find that it can actually provide you with quite a few benefits when it comes to making contacts with the “movers and shakers” in your field, and this can ultimately lead to more sales. Here are some of the great and simple ways that you can start using the site to boost your own sales.
Keep Connecting
You have the potential to make a wide range of contacts through LinkedIn. However, it is important to remember that these contacts might not necessarily be the same as on Facebook and Twitter. These are often professional contacts. That doesn’t preclude them or their own business from becoming customers of yours. For example, if you sell paper, then you might want to start developing connections with a variety of businesses in your shipping area. Connections through the social network are a good way to break the ice, and it ensures fewer cold calls.
Talk to the Gatekeepers
One of the best things about the site is that you will be able to garner information about the company and their gatekeepers, namely the people who will decide whether they want to do business with you. Check out the profiles of the people you connect with to see things such as where they work and what they do, as well as some of the things that they enjoy. This gives you a better idea of who the person is behind the name when you do actually connect through the site.
When it comes to actually making the connection, consider using InMail through the site. Quite often, those who are making the decisions at the company can be difficult to reach through normal channels. With this internal mail service through LinkedIn, it becomes easier to make contact. According to information that comes directly from LinkedIn, those who use this service have far more luck than they do when it comes to cold calls.
Keep in mind that this service is only available on the paid accounts. At the entry level, you receive three per month, but you can upgrade to get more of them at a higher tier. One of the nice things about them though is that if you do not receive a response, they refund the mail credit.
Follow Entire Companies
When you connect with companies, you are able to follow what happens at those companies. If you see any changes, such as a new person coming aboard, a big new account, or the start of a new project, it can give you insight as to when you should approach them with your own products for sale.
Who Looked At You?
On LinkedIn, you can tell who viewed your profile, and this can be a great tool. Check the feature regularly to see who has been looking at your profile and reach out to them. If you aren’t yet connected, it is time to connect. If you know one another, it could be time to catch up through email or a phone call. All of these things can lead to new opportunities and potential sales.
LinkedIn offers a wide range of different options and features that go beyond just helping people to find their next job or their next employee. It is time that you signed up for an account if you haven’t, and to make sure your company is well represented on there.