Linkedin: Finding the Full Value of the Ecosystem

I know plenty of people (myself included) who struggle to find the value of Linkedin. My gut tells me there is plenty of value there and I have found several small pockets of success already. The goal now is develop a more complete understanding of the entire Linkedin ecosystem and how to maximize the benefit for small business.

The value I have found. Let’s get started with the value I have already uncovered. Some of these areas I have made use of myself, while for others I will be reporting success stories that have been shared with me.

Site Traffic. For the past month or so I have shared a link to each new post on this blog with my Linkedin followers. Based upon review of website analytics, I can tell you this is effective for me. Imagine having a company blog and sharing a link to useful information with your followers each day. Seems like a good B2B communication strategy to me.

Value of groups. I’ve spent a fair amount of time in the Linkedin groups and have even set a few up. When I put the time in, I find the groups useful for knowledge sharing. I believe unless you own the group it’s more about keeping your name in front of influential people in the business segment you serve. This is done by sharing so make sure your comments and questions in the groups add to the conversation and don’t scream self-promotion.

Resume replacement. I have friends who report having found jobs in part because of Linkedin profiles. One even offered a resume and was told that they had already reviewed her profile and that wouldn’t be necessary. I review the Linkedin profiles of any and all independent contractors I utilize. Enough of what I do requires an understanding of the social media and community space that if you don’t have one it makes me wonder. Anyone else with me on this?

Social proof. A complete well filled out profile with recommendations given and received is great social proof. I can review the type of people you connect with on Linkedin and the status updates you post. You can learn a great deal about me and me about you related to our business activities.

That’s where I am today. I plan to take a harder look at Linkedin questions soon. If you have experience with questions or other areas you have found useful please join in the conversation with comments below.