What is the Real Purpose of LinkedIn?
I've been asked quite a bit here lately about LinkedIn when talking to clients about social media marketing... so I thought I would address some issues a little.
For starters here, things can change on the internet. People's habits change, so as you read this, keep in mind that a year from now, this will all be different... but that's OK. Because we just need to focus on "right now."
Boost B2B Marketing is the Main Goal
The most use you will get out of having a profile for yourself on LinkedIn, is strictly Business to Business marketing. It's a place where another business owner can recommend your services to others, having worked with you in the past. If you, as a contractor, have worked with other contractors, a recommendation can go a long way, and get you exposure to other contractors looking for someone credible to work with.
Find Local People With Skillsets That You Need
It is also for recruitment. Many people use LinkedIn as a way to display a "public" résumé. A place were they can send a potiental employer to see their accomplishments and skillset. So it is possible to lurk around LinkedIn for people in your area with skillsets that you are looking for.
In studying the habits people have on LinkedIn, there really isn't much "sharing" like other websites. Or should I say, there isn't much need of sharing on LinkedIn. The viewership just isn't there to focus your time and effort. But having said that, to that I say, go where your comminuty is. If there are many local people in your area using LinkedIn, then by all means, focus your conversation to LinkedIn.
About Aaron O'Hanlon
Aaron O'Hanlon is the CEO and Co-Founder of Footbridge Media, a digital marketing agency, specializing in the contracting industry. It is his mission to create awareness of marketing online to the home improvement industry and to educate, inform, and assist contractors in taking over their own online presence.
