Why Every Founder Needs a LinkedIn Strategy ??

If your LinkedIn isn't a priority yet, think again. It’s like having a winning lottery ticket you’ve never bothered to cash. LinkedIn is where I started my journey by simply reaching out to my audience and answering social media questions for free. While building relationships, I realised the gap in the marketplace, a need for a social media coach who not just answered all those pressing social media questions but could partner alongside marketing departments to assist in doing the do. I started posting regularly, and two years later, I have a thriving social media company—all because I decided to put my personal brand online.

Every start-up founder needs to harness the power of LinkedIn, not just as another social network but as a strategic business tool that could catapult your business into the stratosphere.

Here’s why I recommend having a personal LinkedIn strategy:

1. It’s Your Digital Handshake

First impressions are everything; for many, LinkedIn is where these happen. Your profile is your digital handshake—firm, professional, and the initial step in sharing your journey. Use your personal page to celebrate milestones, share your start-up's highs and lows, and offer a peek behind the scenes. This is where people meet the real ‘you’, the founder and showcase that there’s an actual living, breathing person behind the brand. You’re more likely to get people to visit your personal LinkedIn page than your company page because people relate to people.?

A Linkedin profile where you post once a blue moon and or haven’t been active since 2003 is the equivalent of a limp-wristed handshake; a bit gross and easily forgotten. I recommend showing up at least once a week and spending at least an hour reaching out to people in your demographics. For example, if you’re a property developer, you might want to connect with real estate agents who may become trusted advisors when it comes time to sell or auction off land. A female tradie could connect with other women in construction to form a network.

2. Take Charge of Your Story

Whether you're celebrating a win or navigating a bump in the road, it's all about how you share those moments. Got a new product? Shout about it on LinkedIn. Hit a hiccup and need advice from someone who’s been there before or learnt a hard lesson? Share it. It’s not just about updates—it's about being genuine and relatable.

3. Network Like a Pro

LinkedIn is full of professionals ready to connect, collaborate, and network. It lets you interact directly with potential advisors, partners, employees, and investors from your desk. Plus, reaching out feels more personal here. You can often begin with, "I saw your profile on LinkedIn..." and see where it takes you. One message could become the start of a beneficial collaboration for both parties.

4. Learn from the Best

LinkedIn provides a front-row seat to the thoughts and successes of leading entrepreneurs in your industry. Follow them, interact with their posts, and absorb their strategies like you’re in an ongoing masterclass in entrepreneurship. Richard Branson often posts insights and allows followers to answer questions—#AskRichard. He even talks about new founders' struggles, such as imposter syndrome. And let’s not forget about Sallie Krawcheck , a powerhouse in finance who’s made it her mission to empower women through financial literacy with her company, Ellevest. She’s not just a top influencer for those interested in finance; her insights inspire anyone looking to make it big in their field. Following her can be incredibly motivating, especially if you want to harness some serious girl power.

5. Showcase Your Expertise

As a founder, LinkedIn is an excellent platform for establishing yourself as a thought leader. You can share your insights, write articles, newsletters and comment on industry trends. Demonstrating your deep understanding of your field over time this builds credibility and trust. My go-to started by answering social media questions, and as it evolved, I started connecting with people who wanted to book time into my calendar to go more in-depth with me. I can safely say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without a personal LinkedIn strategy.

6. Recruitment Goldmine

Are you searching for top talent? Your future star employee might be browsing LinkedIn. Access to detailed profiles and recommendations makes recruiting the right person much simpler. Plus, actively showcasing a vibrant company culture attracts candidates who align with your vision and values.

7. PR and Crisis Management When managing a PR crisis, timing is everything. LinkedIn’s platform lets you quickly share updates, responses, or corrections across a professional network. These posts can be targeted and strategic, reaching your target audience and industry peers, media, and other influencers who can help circulate your message by reposting.?

By not leveraging LinkedIn, you’re not just missing out on connections but overlooking opportunities to propel your business forward. So, why wait? Let’s get strategic and make LinkedIn work for us. After all, in business, staying connected means staying ahead.

As always, if you have any questions, you know where to find me.

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