Simple tactics to help B2B sales professionals leverage the LinkedIN social network.

1. Tactics to Grow Your Network and earn more profits through linkedin B2B Social Networking Entrepreneur advisors, December 2009

2. The Trade Show Like a trade show, LinkedIN gives B2B sales professionals the unique opportunity to connect with potential clients in a business focused environment. Taking a strategic approach without going overboard will net a larger network and more profits. LinkedIN Benefits Self-Organized Network Focused on business Capture new connections 24/7 Availability Scalable

3. Brand Yourself Complete your profile to the greatest extent possible Picture Resume/Work Experience Up to date information Create a Positive Perceptions Transperency– Be open and honest Activity – Update and engage regularly Knowledge – Post content interesting, useful and self-less for your audience of peers and clients

4. Start and Grow Your Network Work with what you got Upload an existing database Send invitations Generate new connections Meet someone new? Invite them to connect Actively discuss your LinkedIN account in conversation See who your network knows A current contact is bound to be connected to an old contact

5. Join Relevant Groups Join industry groups Be a thought leaders Join groups your clients would join Actively Participate Comment on discussions Pose questions Seek connections with other group members Ask other members to connect Focus on active members

6. Start a Group Administer a group for your peers Be the thought leader Create lively discussions Promote among your peers Administer a group your clients would want to join What connections do they want to make? What are their needs and how can you fulfill them? Start a group around a popular event Industry trade shows, meetings, conventions Tip: Take groups offline by hosting in-person networking events

7. Search for Your Market Research to find connections Make note of groups, recent activity, current connections Use data for sales prospecting Learn organizational structure, current roles

8. Actively Promote Yourself LinkedIN Paid Advertising Target key LinkedIN users based on seven different criteria: location, company size, industry, job function, age, seniority, gender

9. Go Premium Create greater efficiency by upgrading your LinkedIN account

10. Look in the Mirror Content Matters Regular and measured activity Useful information for others to use Recommendations Ask for them and give them selflessly Transparency Matters Always post unique recommendations, comments and discussions The skills and experiences that you have earned is what matters the most

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