You’re most likely on LinkedIn. So are the executives from all 2011 Fortune 500 companies. To most users, LinkedIn might be considered something like an extremely large online Rolodex.
While a basic LinkedIn profile is an effective tool for keeping track of people, finding people that you are looking for, and being found by them, you can expand your networking options beyond a basic profile.
LinkedIn also provides the option to upgrade to a Premium account with a monthly subscription.
What sets a Premium account apart from a basic account?
- Greater access to the LinkedIn community. When searching for potential connections, Premium account holders have the ability to view expanded search results and profile information for users outside your network. You can also see who has viewed your profile, including an expanded list of the titles, regions, and companies of those viewing your information.
- Additional ways to communicate with members outside your network. Upgrading to a Premium account opens up new lines of communication on LinkedIn. The InMail feature allows you to send a message to any LinkedIn member, without an introduction. Premium account holders can also join the OpenLink network to extend their reach. This allows anyone to send you a message for free, even if they are outside of your network.
- Relationship management tools. Premium account holders have exclusive access to the Profile Organizer feature on LinkedIn. This allows you to organize your contacts into folders, where notes and contact information can be attached to any profile as a way to help you remember relevant information for future correspondence.
What can LinkedIn do for me besides find connections?
Whether you have a basic or a Premium account, LinkedIn is more just than a virtual contact list. Here are just a few other ways you can leverage the power of this professional social network:
- Create a LinkedIn Company Page for your print business. Having an official presence on LinkedIn is another opportunity to build awareness for your brand.
- Join a LinkedIn Group. Here you can network with other print professionals to discuss news, trends and issues related to the print industry. Check out the Printing Industries of America Networking Group and Print Industry Network Group for starters.
- Get involved with LinkedIn Answers to share your expertise. The Answers feature allows people in need of a solution to post business-related questions to the members of their network. In turn, other users can provide relevant answers and resources.
By building your profile and your company’s presence on LinkedIn, you have the opportunity to connect with prospects, customers and partners that you may not have connected with offline.
How are you leveraging LinkedIn for your print business? Share your thoughts with us! Leave us a comment below and let us know how LinkedIn is helping you build and expand your professional network.
