Greetings:
LinkedIn recently hit 60 million members. What a milestone! It was only about five months ago that they were at 40 million. Some would say, big deal, Facebook has a gazillion, and, yes, it does, but where are most people consistently getting a financial return on the time invested? Hands down, that's on LinkedIn. I especially hear this from the people who are involved in B to B marketing. Facebook seems to have a strong appeal and getting stronger for the B to C group; so you should be thinking about that if you are in that space. That being said, this email is about LinkedIn. So let's get started with our tips for the week---#25. I guess that is a milestone of sorts, isn't it.
Profile Tips
I know I talk about keywords a lot, but that is because it is one of the cornerstones of the LinkedIn system, and you have to get that or you will not be very successful in your efforts in making new relationships that should improve business and your life. That being said, try this exercise AGAIN:
1. Think of the one word or words that you think are the most important descriptor of your business. For me it would be "office furniture." As much as I would like to glamorize what we do, and we do have lots of other products and services, this is the one that, if only allowed one, I would pick.
2. Go to Advanced Search and put that word or words in the keyword box and then regionalize the search (if applicable) for your territory or where you normally do business.
3. See how far up you show on the search. Write down the position (i.e., second page, third slot).
4. Go to your profile and add that word or words a few more times throughout your profile. Now, I am not asking you to make your profile nonreadable, but think about putting it in your Headline, of course your Summary and Specialties (should be there already), but also in a description of your current job or past jobs, if applicable. I am told the headline gets the most search points.
5. Repeat step #3 and see is you have moved up.
You just have performed SEO for your LinkedIn profile, and I am sure that move from the second page, third slot to the first page, fourth slot will help you be the one "reached out to” more often than you would have been.
Connection Tips
This week I received a tip from a reader that I thought I would share.
"I wanted to tell you about one of the ways I'm using LinkedIn: I am a Navy veteran and I belong to 2 military-related LinkedIn groups. I have found the weekly updates to be a way to stay up to date with current events going on in the Navy and to connect with other veterans on various opportunities."
Cool. I know this will resonate with some of you. Keep the stories coming. That's how we all help each other.
Wildcard Tip or Question
I just finished a book that I know you will really find helpful if you are going forward with social media being a part of your marketing plan. The book is called "The Truth About Profiting from Social Networking" by Patrice-Anne Rutledge. Some of the topics include The Truth About Finding a Job, Recruiting the Best, and Networking Your Way to Business Success. I think you'll love it.
Miscellaneous News and Notes
Here is my upcoming schedule for teaching/speaking so you can share with friends, relatives and business associates. Follow link for additional details and registration information.
Fri Mar 12, 2010 Caffeine & Connections (Free coffee and LinkedIn help)
Gravity Connect, 702 S. 2nd Street, Milwaukee; 6:00am-8:30am
Mon Mar 15, 2010 Wayne's LinkedIn Power Formula Training for Beginners
Gravity Connect, 702 S. 2nd Street, Milwaukee; 5:00pm - 7:00pm
http://budurl.com/b7zz
Thurs Mar 18, 2010 Wayne's Intermediate LinkedIn Power Formula Training
M&M Office Interiors; 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
http://budurl.com/5fdy
Remember - a #1 connection is a trusted professional and not someone you just met at Pick 'n Save!
Wayne
Wayne C. Breitbarth
President
M&M Office Interiors, Inc.
W233 N2833 Roundy Circle West Suite 100
Pewaukee, WI 53072
office 262-781-2600
cell 414-313-7785
