How To Grow Your LinkedIn Connections
Whether socially or professionally, we all desire connection. In the age of social media, the potential to cast a wide net and connect with numerous people is unprecedented.
For entrepreneurs and business owners, quality connections are invaluable. Fortunately, LinkedIn makes finding those connections easier.
Think about it. LinkedIn allows you to connect with potential clients who fit your customer avatar from the comfort of your home or office.
Remember though, you’re not just on LinkedIn to grow a follower count. It's about making connections that will hopefully convert to new clientele.
So, how do you find these potential new clients? It’s easier than you think. For instance, I use LinkedIn to connect with individuals who may be more likely to require my services or refer me to those who do. These are usually female entrepreneurs with a small to medium size business. Typically she’s interested in scaling her business and building her client base. She also realizes that social media management is a full-time job and knows it’s important to show up consistently. I also connect with those who could be a future collaborator.
As you can see, I’m very clear about my target audience. Once you know that, you can go out and find them.
Also, remember to be intentional and strategic about who you follow. For example, to build their network and become visible to potential clients, a realtor can follow other realtors, mortgage brokers, bank managers, contractors, and home stagers.
Here are some tips on how to find, attract, and connect with your ideal audience.
Utilize the Search Function
Seeking business owners within a specific industry? You can perform a search using LinkedIn's search bar using those keywords. Your results will be individuals with the title of business owner in their description.
Connection Request
Click on the name
Click the blue connect button
Customize your invitation by clicking Add Note
Write a short personalized message i.e. use their name and reference what they do.
Hit send
Curate Niche Content
LinkedIn content is sharable, increasing your visibility and opportunities to connect with a broader audience.
Here are some ideas to get you started.
Create industry-related posts based on topics related to your field (e.g. if you have a blog, repurpose those posts on LinkedIn.)
Create posts that feature and explain your services
Create posts about events or workshops you are attending or participating in
Reciprocate
When you share a post or an article, you allow the creator or poster to be seen. No matter what platform you are on, social media is about being social. So remember, if you appreciate a piece of content, it’s important to share, comment, and hit that like button.
Are you on LinkedIn? How do you use it to network for your business?
