Maximizing LinkedIn Networks for Online Marketing

LinkedIn, one of the top sites for online marketing, competing alongside Facebook and Twitter, boasts 150 million users and offers many helpful features for employees, brands, and B2B marketers.

By learning how to navigate LinkedIn, the most popular social network site for professionals, companies can expand their follower base and gain more exposure. Stephanie Sammons of Social Media Examiner lists the top ways to increase a company’s network and retain followers.

Staying active on the site is necessary. Updating three times a day is recommended, as well as commenting on and sharing the statuses of first-, second-, and third-degree connections. Sammons also recommended answering questions on LinkedIn Answers and “start and/or participate in LinkedIn Group Discussion three times a week.” These strategies will show that the company’s profile isn’t stagnant, that the brand is active and engaged on the site.

“Focus your participation activities during the times when you have the best chance to be seen,” Sammons said. Just like in content marketing, it’s crucial to share information with network members that is relevant to them.

“The key is to share news, articles and insights that are relevant to your connections if you want to attract and grow the right audience,” Sammons said. Posting content that will spark a dialogue and relate to the network is going to promote growth.

If the content doesn’t engage users, companies will have a hard time convincing people to follow them.

Image courtesy of Flickr, Nan Palmero