“Can LinkedIn be considered Social Media?” Bogdan Enache, Project Manager at TELUS, asked this question. “I know when people throw the social media term into discussions they usually refer to Tweeter and Facebook but LinkedIn with its groups and Q&As can be somewhat considered more than just a database of resumes, perhaps … the Facebook for professionals.”
LinkedIn is one of many social media tools. You have to know what you are trying to accomplish, what your goals are and who do you want to influence. Until you have those pieces of your marketing puzzle in place you can’t start implementing a plan.
LinkedIn is the social media tool for professionals who are trying to influence colleagues or prospects in a business environment. With our clients, once we know the answers to the questions listed above, if LinkedIn is an appropriate marketing tool we make sure they have a clear resume posted. That way someone who is reading your LinkedIn profile can easily understand what you do and what you’ve accomplished. Next we tell them to join groups in their field. An important additional piece of the puzzle is to answer questions in your field. That helps to establish credibility. Adding to one’s connections is also an important part of the plan. And, yes, Bogdan, it’s good to ask questions. That get’s your name out, as well!
I’ve included a few links about how to use social media from our blog. I hope this helps you!
Laura Good effectively uses social media for the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance.
How much time you should spend on Social Media.
Social Media…A Two Way Conversation.