Why You Suck At Using LinkedIn

Does your LinkedIn presence suck?

Take a moment to look over your profile, and pretend that you are a prospective client.

What is the FIRST impression your prospective client sees when they visit your profile? Remember, you have less than nine seconds for someone to determine whether or not they like and trust you.

If your presence isn’t stellar, these are probably the reasons why your presence sucks:

1. You don’t see the value of LinkedIn. 
   You probably think it’s a site just for people who are looking for a new job.You don’t realize that you have an opportunity to position yourself and your company at thought leaders and experts in your industry.You don’t understand that telling your “story” and showcasing your accomplishments is a big part of why people buy from your company.
2. You claim you don’t have the time
   Thankfully, out of all the Social Media channels, LinkedIn can be one of the least time consuming.People aren’t wasting time on LinkedIn, they are INVESTING time here. LinkedIn is where professionals are connecting with professionals. They trust this site as a resource for information.You need to create a solid presence, build a network of quality connections and stay-in-touch so when your prospective client is ready to hire you, they are constantly reminded (through status updates and blog posts) that you are at the top of your game.

   Don’t have time? Make time. (This investment will pay off)

3. You don’t know what to do.
   I’m here to help. Social Media doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Get really clear on your objectives and then lay out a game plan.- You can “wing it” and see if you can figure it out yourself
   – There are lots of free resources online to help you craft your presence. Attend webinars, read blogs.
   – You can hire an expert who can develop your presence for you(hint..hint..nudge..nudge).
   

Everyone who is involved in business should be using LinkedIn.
Is it your resume? Yes. Is it your Rolodex? Yes. Is a valuable resource for you and your business. You bet it is.

Whether or not you’re actively converting clients, you are a brand ambassador for your company. Your presence online speaks volumes to your connections when they are making a decision to solve their pain or problem.

• Is your company equipped to solve their problem?
• Are you the person who can help them?
• Who have you worked with the the past to solve similar situations?
• Are you publishing updates and posts to showcase you’re staying on top of your industry?
• Are you reaching out to make quality connections?

Which guy do you want to be: The one who has invested in a solid presence that outlines who you are and how you help your connections or the empty shell of a profile that screams that you don’t care enough about your own presence – so why should you care about theirs?

Now it’s your turn: What do you think about LinkedIn? Valuable resource or waste of time? Has a connection on LinkedIn turned into new business?

If you require assistance writing and developing your LinkedIn profile, if your team needs LinkedIn training or if your company wants to get laser-focused on using Social Media properly, connect with me at leslie@punchmedia.ca or 647-272-5588

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, Professor of Social Media, Corporate Social Media Trainer and Principal of PUNCH!media

Leslie was called a “Social Media Guru” by CBC Radio and has been working in digital marketing since 1997 and founded PUNCH!media in 2009. PUNCH!media clients include The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and Jones Lang LaSalle.

PUNCH!media’s goal is to empower through education and help executives gain confidence in their online presence so you convert higher-paying clients.

www.punchmedia.ca
leslie@punchmedia.ca
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