If you happened to be following the Twitter stream over the last week or so, you no doubt saw tweets about Erik Qualman's Social Media Revolution video. If you didn't - it's an impressive visualization of social media statistics set to Fatboy Slim's, "Right Here Right Now".
One particularly striking stat is that 80% of companies are now using LinkedIn as their primary hiring tool. That's powerful. But, in order succeed on LinkedIn - you need to have a large network (among other things - to be covered in a future post). Here are six simple ways to grow your network on LinkedIn:
- Start a GroupLinkedIn groups are a fantastic way to network with other users of the social network. It's easy to create a group around a subject you're interested in - or where you have some expertise. Once you create your group, post content like blog feeds and discussion topics. Invite your friends and then encourage them to invite theirs. Request to connect with anyone who joins that you don't already know.
- Join a GroupMuch like starting a group, joining a pre-existing group can also be a good tactic for growing your network. Once you join the group, participate as often as you can, and request to connect with those that you interact with.
- Find Old CoworkersIf you've had a few jobs, try searching for old coworkers by using the company search tool. You can also do a Google search for "site:linkedin.com + Company Name". Connect with those that you find.
- Toss the Business CardsI've been doing quite a bit of networking lately, and it seems as if not a day goes by when I don't collect a few more business cards. Instead of letting these cards collect dust on my desk, I've started connecting with those that I can find on LinkedIn. Once connected, I simply toss the card. No need for paper when everything is digital, right?
- Cross PromoteUse your presence on other social networks like Twitter or Facebook to cross-promote your LinkedIn profile. Don't do this too often, but every now and then it's OK to ask if people would be interested in connecting with you. Most social networks will also allow you at least one link in your profile - add your LinkedIn URL to this spot.
- Mine Your FriendsYour friends and professional contacts are probably already networked with people you know locally. Look through their contacts to find people you may have missed.
These are strategies that I have used to much success as I've grown my own LinkedIn network. What strategies work best for you?
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