I recently attended a Webinar on September 4, 2013 about how Bloggers can connect with brands and build relationships using LinkedIn. I have to say that I was quite impressed. If you are a blogger reading this, then this post for you!
Did you know that LinkedIn generates more leads than Facebook? Well neither did I. LinkedIn is an amazing social networking tool with a fantastic search function. Use the search function to connect with people and market your brand. If you want to get noticed, you must consider yourself as a Brand. Yes that is right, a brand. My brand is A New York Foodie and that is how I will market myself. If you do a search for your name on Google, and you have a LinkedIn account, chances are you will be the 1st or 2nd item to come up. When I did a search on my name, I came up 1st in the Google list.
You want to connect with others showing them your expertise or niche. You can do this by adding to conversations and extending your network online. Join groups that pertain to your area of expertise. There are many groups on LinkedIn that you could join.
Your profile also needs to be stellar and up to date. This means a professional looking photograph of you as first impressions most certainly do count. Also, optimize your headline and incorporate things that you actually do. Make yourself stand out!
Your contact information also must be up to date. Have a current email address so people can get in contact with you. Also put down your blog or website URL. This is a must!
It is also very important to write a summary. When you do write your summary, be engaging and show some personality. Be a service to people who look to connect with you.
If you are a blogger wanting to work with brands, use the search function. As I previously mentioned, the LinkedIn search function is excellent. It will help you to find groups in your related area to connect with. When you do find groups, contribute to conversations, be consistent and add content on a regular basis. Let everyone get to know who you are.
Put together a Media Kit using Google Analytics and the analytics on either Blogger or WordPress or even Facebook.
I have set some goals for myself in the next few weeks. Connect with 3 new people. You will be surprised at how big your network can grow from just connecting with 3 people. Granted you won’t know everyone in your network as it can become quite large, but you want to build relationships, as that is what this is all about. LinkedIn can be an amazing tool so let it work for you as I am letting it work for me!
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