Maximize Your Reach on LinkedIn: The Insider Secrets of Networking from Top Experts

For over six years, we've provided training and specialized services for some of the most esteemed professionals in a wide variety of industries. I've seen firsthand the power of building relationships and expanding your reach through LinkedIn

At Linkability we've trained countless professionals in technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, professional services, and more on the best practices for networking effectively on LinkedIn, and I'm excited to share some of my top tips with you.

First and foremost, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your goals.

Are you looking for a new job, trying to grow your business, or simply seeking to learn more about a specific industry? Having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve will help you focus your efforts and target the right people and opportunities.

Once you've defined your goals, it's time to leverage the power of LinkedIn. Start by ensuring that your Profile is up-to-date and includes relevant keywords for your industry and goals.

This will make it easier for potential connections to find you when they're searching for relevant terms and clearly understand what you are all about as quickly as possible. As they say, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression." Make sure your first impression is on point!

Next, it's time to start building your network.

Connect with colleagues, classmates, and industry leaders. Joining relevant LinkedIn groups is also a great way to expand your network and participate in discussions with like-minded professionals.

But, having a large network on LinkedIn is not enough, it's also important to actively engage with the people in your network. Share articles, participate in discussions, and comment on other people's posts. This will help you establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry and build meaningful relationships.

Networking events (online and in person) are also a great opportunity to meet new people and grow your network. Look for events related to your industry or interests and make an effort to attend them. Don't be afraid to strike up conversations with new people – you never know who you might meet and what opportunities might come your way.

After you've met someone new, it's essential to follow up. Send them a LinkedIn request and a message reminding them of who you are and how you met.

Here are a couple of thought-starter wording suggestions:

Invitation to connect (must be less than 300 characters)

General:

Hi [Name],

I hope this finds you well. I came across your profile & was impressed by your [achievement]. Would love to connect & learn more about your work.

Best,

[Your Name]

Mutual Connection:

Hi [Name],

I hope this finds you well. Our mutual connection [Name] suggested we connect. I'd love to learn more about your work & how we can support each other.

Best,

[Your Name]

Professional Interest:

"Hi [Name],

I hope this finds you well. I came across your profile & was impressed by your [achievement]. I'm interested in [interest] & would love to connect & learn more. Best,

[Your Name]

As you build your network, remember that it's not all about what you can get from the other person. It's also important to strive to offer value to the people in your network.

This could be sharing relevant articles, offering advice, or introducing them to other contacts who might be able to help them.

Being authentic is also crucial when networking. Don't try to be someone you're not or pretend to know more than you do.

Instead, be yourself and let your personality shine through. This will help you build genuine relationships that will benefit both you and your career.

Finally, make an effort to stay in touch with the people in your network. This could be through regular emails, LinkedIn updates, or even in-person meetings.

The more you stay in touch, the stronger your relationships will become, and the more value you will be able to provide to each other.

Here are a few real-world examples of how developing a networking strategy can positively impact your career and business:

One example of an executive using LinkedIn to advance their career is Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, and best-selling author. Adam has used LinkedIn to share his research and insights on workplace dynamics, leadership, and career development. He has also used the platform to promote his books, share speaking engagements, and connect with other thought leaders in his field.

Through his engaging content and active participation in discussions, Adam has established himself as a leading voice in his industry, with over five million followers on LinkedIn. His thoughtful and informative posts have helped him build his personal brand and network with like-minded professionals, expand his audience, and advance his career as a sought-after speaker, consultant, and expert commentator.

Mark Suster, the Managing Partner at Upfront Ventures, is a great example of a business owner who has grown his business by using LinkedIn.

Mark has used LinkedIn to build his personal brand as a thought leader in the startup and venture capital space, sharing insights and advice with entrepreneurs and investors. He has also used LinkedIn to promote his company's investments and services, connect with potential clients and partners, and keep up with the latest trends and developments in his industry.

Mark has amassed a large following of over 100,000 people on LinkedIn through his regular and engaging posts. His content has helped him establish himself as an authority in his field, enabling him to expand his network. Using LinkedIn to share his expertise and connect with his audience, Mark has positioned himself and his company as leaders in the competitive world of venture capital.

Another example of an executive who has established herself as a thought leader on LinkedIn through strategic networking is Carla Harris, Vice Chairman, Wealth Management, and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley.

Carla has used LinkedIn to share her insights and experiences on topics such as leadership, diversity, and career development and promote her speaking engagements, book releases, and other professional activities. By sharing her wisdom and expertise on these topics, Carla has attracted a large following of over 450,000 people on LinkedIn. She uses the platform to engage with other thought leaders, participate in industry discussions, and connect with potential clients and partners.

Through her thoughtful and informative posts, active engagement, and strategic networking, Carla has established herself as a leading voice in her industry and expanded her influence and reach on LinkedIn

Networking on LinkedIn doesn't have to be a time-consuming task.

Even the busiest professionals can incorporate it into their daily schedule with a few simple strategies.

For example, set aside 15 minutes in the morning to check your LinkedIn feed and engage with your network. You can also use your lunch break to connect with new people or join a LinkedIn group discussion.

Another great way to incorporate networking into your schedule is by using the LinkedIn mobile app. You can easily check your feed, connect with new people and engage with your network on the go.

In conclusion, networking effectively on LinkedIn is crucial for professionals in any industry. By following these tips and strategies, you can build relationships and expand your reach which will benefit you and your career. Remember to have a clear understanding of your goals, leverage the power of LinkedIn, build and engage with your network, attend events, follow up, offer value, be authentic, and stay in touch.

Do you have an experience or suggestion you'd like to share?

Please feel free to share your stories and insights in the comments section below. We value your input and feedback, and we believe that together, we can strengthen our community and support one another's growth. So, don't be shy - let us know what you think!

Wishing you all the best in your networking journey. Happy connecting!

Kim Peterson Stone is a three-time business founder, keynote speaker, and leading?LinkedIn strategist?that has amassed a global following of over 225,000 on LinkedIn. Not only has she authored hundreds of articles on LinkedIn and become a verified thought leader, but she has helped her clients do the same.

Her B2B digital marketing agency,?Linkability, Inc., has?helped many clients from Intrapreneurs and Entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies?work smarter on LinkedIn by leveraging the art of surviving disruption. With her intimate knowledge of thought leadership, entrepreneurship, and global business communications, Kim uses creative and purpose-driven solutions to?develop a strong brand presence, generate targeted leads, and maximize online visibility for their clients.?

Kim has changed the lives of many, not by selling products but by?solving?problems, and she can teach you to do the same.

Are you looking to strengthen your LinkedIn strategy to stay ahead of your future career goals? Let us help –?reach out to us today!