LinkedIn: More Than Just an Online Resume

By Brian Lee, Client Associate

Do you remember the last in-person networking event you went to before the pandemic?

I can’t – it feels like a lifetime ago.

But while these once common after-work activities are on hold for the time being, businesses still need to find ways to meet potential customers and clients.

In many ways, LinkedIn has filled this void. In the last six months, it’s become more than just an online resume for businesses and their employees. It’s a space to make genuine connections with stakeholders.

Here are some quick tips for businesses to start building their LinkedIn presence from the ground up.

1. Invite personal connections to follow your company page.

On LinkedIn, page admins can invite personal connections to follow their company’s page. This relatively quick step can have a big impact on getting the page off the ground. But rather than inviting each of your personal connections, focus on close colleagues and people you have relationships with, as they will be most likely to take action.

2. Begin by posting only a few times per week.

Posting frequently is important to generating consistent traffic – but it’s equally important not to overdo it. Quality is more important than quantity, and each post should have a deliberate purpose. Sharing a combination of evergreen and topical content is key to keeping the page interesting, engaging and relevant.

3. Incorporate hashtags and tag other LinkedIn users and pages when appropriate.

Including the right industry hashtags will expand your page’s reach, making your posts visible to users who follow those hashtags and helping content gain traction. Tagging other relevant users and pages is also a solid method to build connections with colleagues and other important industry leaders and organizations.

4. From your personal profile, join professional groups and follow the pages of relevant organizations.

With in-person networking events not possible for the time being, this is a good way for business owners to start making meaningful online connections. For example, many chambers of commerce have a LinkedIn presence, offering opportunities to engage with their content and fellow members. Many universities also have alumni pages and professional groups for networking.

For more LinkedIn ideas or to learn how to implement the ones above, connect with Brian. You can also read more about our social media services here.