Yes, LinkedIn is a common site for job seekers to find people to connect with, but it is also an excellent way to connect with people.
I want to preface this by saying that shared connections are VERY important for LinkedIn users. Without connections, why should someone view you as somebody who is worth their time? How do they even know if you are relevant?
LinkedIn is practically built around shared connections. I'm sure we've all heard the phrase, "I know a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy". This saying is so relevant when it comes to LinkedIn!
In fact, in order to really get anything done on LinkedIn, you need to "know a guy who knows a guy". Everything from messaging to viewing profiles is usually restricted by mutual connections. Luckily, the more connections you have, especially within your industry, the more access you will have to others on LinkedIn. Now, go and get those connections!
After you obtain some relevant connections, especially with past and present clients, I would recommend you make use of some of the following tips:
I want to preface this by saying that shared connections are VERY important for LinkedIn users. Without connections, why should someone view you as somebody who is worth their time? How do they even know if you are relevant?
LinkedIn is practically built around shared connections. I'm sure we've all heard the phrase, "I know a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy". This saying is so relevant when it comes to LinkedIn!
In fact, in order to really get anything done on LinkedIn, you need to "know a guy who knows a guy". Everything from messaging to viewing profiles is usually restricted by mutual connections. Luckily, the more connections you have, especially within your industry, the more access you will have to others on LinkedIn. Now, go and get those connections!
After you obtain some relevant connections, especially with past and present clients, I would recommend you make use of some of the following tips:
- Get recommendations: Recommendations can really give you an edge you need to stand out. Positive recommendation from your connections not only highlight positive experiences with you, but also positive experiences with your company. If the right person sees and understands those recommendations, you are likely going to be the person they will want to do business with in your company. As with in person sales, never underestimate the power of referrals, and that is basically what a recommendation is. Ask some of your connections, I am sure a couple of them would be willing to write a recommendation for you.
- Get the proper person to speak to: There have been so many times I have attempted to get hold of a "person in marketing" without having a name on hand. When I am transferred to the proper person, it always makes it a little less awkward when I already know who I am speaking to. Luckily, I can usually get around this by browsing a company's LinkedIn page. In doing so, I can usually find the name of the right person to speak to. I can also get an idea of what their interests and specialties are; certainly better than flying in blind!
- Message people if you can't get a hold of them: I rarely do this, as I prefer talking to somebody on the phone or in person, but if I message somebody on Linkedin, then that gives them the opportunity to see what my company is all about; what I'm all about. They can also see my skill set and recommendations. As such, my profile says more about me that I can convey in a 30-second voicemail.
These are just a few uses for LinkedIn when it comes to improving your sales. What are your experiences with LinkedIn? Has it helped your sales? Do you have any tips? Please feel free to comment!
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