If you answer ‘Yes’ to any of these questions, read this post. Immediately!

Are you an expert in your industry?
Are you in sales?
Are you in marketing?
Are you a CEO?
Are you a VP?
Do you rely on leads and connections to be successful?
Do you operate an industry specific blog?
Do you develop products?
Are you trying to maintain a personal brand?
Are you trying to become a baller?

Etc.


Let’s look at the facts.

  • LinkedIn has over 150 million active users.
  • More than 50,000 developers are using LinkedIn APIs to create innovative tools and services for professionals.
  • LinkedIn counts executives from all Fortune 500 companies as members.
  • LinkedIn is the most widely used B2B platform on the Web.

(via LinkedIn Press)
Most business professionals fail to utilize the power of LinkedIn. They fail in executing the basics. Understanding some of the unique features and tools offered on this platform is the first step in establishing thought leadership.

Baller Tip 1 – Establish Your Personal Brand

There are a couple prerequisite items you need to cover. You will need to fill out your profile completely and effectively. There are little sections within the profile that can be optimized to make a big difference. It is important to remember that you are among many similar professionals. Don’t be boring or cookie cutter. Create your own special blend. Also, don’t overdue it. It’s probably not smart to list as a CEO if you’re not. Keep it honest. Here are some tips for maximizing your personal brand.

  • Use a unique and engaging Headline.
  • Choose a memorable profile photo that fits your market.
  • Create a concise summary that purveys your expertise.
  • Use quantifiable metrics to illustrate industry experience.
  • Link to digital portfolios, company profiles, website and relevant social media accounts.
  • Include relevant side projects in your work experience.

Baller Tip 2 – Build Influence Within Your Niche

The easiest way to create awareness for your personal brand is by simply showing up. How do you show up on LinkedIn? It starts with gaining approval from your peers. Once you have a small group of influencers built up through connections, it is time to ask for some recommendations. Be candid and just ask. Make sure you are asking because you actually did a good job. If your work sucked, you have bigger problems and LinkedIn should be a secondary priority.
Once your endorsements are tight, start participating in the community. This can be done in multiple ways. Consider these actions for thought leadership and expansion of your social reach.

  • Join relevant groups based on geographic location and industry.
  • Produce and post rich content to your profile and groups.
  • Curate useful and controversial content to groups.
  • Answer questions using LinkedIn Answers.
  • Participate in group discussions.
  • Integrate a professional Twitter feed into your profile.
  • Create a group for your blog and invite connections to join.

Baller Tip 3 – Leverage Your Connections

Being influential on this network will be lead to an increase in meetings. One of the most powerful ways to be successful in business is through good connections. Prepare yourself to make a solid personal impression over coffee or a beer.

  • Prepare talking points and strategies for face-to-face meetings.
  • Be open to collaboration and new projects.
  • Offer value to new connections through mentoring.
  • Practice reciprocity by connecting on Twitter or other social platforms.
  • Partner up on blogging and cross promoting.

 
Still not feeling like a baller? Free advice will be offered in the comments below. Thanks in advance for sharing this post.

b2b linkedin strategies