How to Use LinkedIn for Business 

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Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn has become an invaluable resource for those on the job hunt, from recent graduates to professionals of any age. However, if you think that this social media platform is nothing more than a job board, you’re missing out on the largest professional network on the Internet (a pretty big space to dominate, if you ask us). With 187 million members around the world, including executives from all 2012 Fortune 500 companies, and 2.6 million companies with Company Pages, LinkedIn is no longer riding on the social media bandwagon. It’s driving the car. Read on to find out how your company can capitalize on its momentum.

• Create a Company Page. If you already have a personal profile on LinkedIn, you know how useful the platform can be for networking. When you create a Company Page, it not only allows you to connect with existing colleagues, but it also allows you to promote your business to potential customers. To best leverage your Company Page, write compelling, keyword optimized copy for the “Overview” and “Services” tabs, which are opportunities to “sell” your brand and its service lines to potential customers. And don’t forget to include a call-to-action, such as directing customers to your company website for more information.

• Participate in Group Discussions. Through your personal profile, you can join Groups and participate in discussions. This is the perfect opportunity to get involved in conversations about your industry – and to direct other participants to your company’s white papers, blog posts or articles related to the topic at hand. This “thought leadership” will reinforce your brand’s credibility as an industry expert.

• Respond to Questions in LinkedIn “Answers.” Another way that you can build credibility for your brand on LinkedIn is by answering questions posted by other LinkedIn users. For example, if someone is thinking about switching auto insurance companies, and you work for an auto insurance agency, it’s the perfect opportunity to jump in and let them know about the auto insurance rate comparison tool on your company’s homepage or to offer to email them a quote directly.

• Drive traffic to your website. This past July, LinkedIn released its new design, which, not surprisingly, looks strikingly similar to that of Facebook and Google+. There is also a lot of overlap in regard to the available features, such as wall posts that users can “Like,” “Comment” on or “Share.” These posts allow you to address timely news and events, promote a product or service line you offer or ask an engaging question to your audience.