Making the most out of Linkedin

Since hitting 10,000 professional connections in May, I've been asked several times recently for advice on effective Linkedin network building. 

So here is my unofficial, self learned advice for how I personally make the most out of, what I see as, a hugely valuable resource: 

1. Content - Choose content relevant to your audience. Use short & punchy updates to get your key message across, we've all clicked on links and seen paragraph after paragraph of unappealing text - only to close the window down very soon after. 
2. Images - Updates with images are much more prominent and always get more views. Be careful of simply copy and pasting stock images from Google - connections will see through this and you may be at risk of copyright infringement. 
3. Be Human - I try to be professional, but not too corporate. Also, I try not to take myself too seriously, its endearing for people to see the real you. Obviously don't forget the close link between you and your employer - be sure to read (and understand) your companies social media policy. If you're an employer and don't have a social media policy - you definitely need one!
4. Discussion - Ask for the opinion of your connections and make contributions to your connections posts. This is a great way of growing your network, your personal brand and the profile of your business / industry.
5. Housekeeping - Finally, make sure your profile is fully completed, as Linkedin will suggest relevant connections. Commit 15 mins per day adding new connections, but be selective, don't add just anybody - remember this is Linkedin and not Facebook!

I hope this short article is of use, good luck and happy networking.