Better networking at Bizcamp with LinkedIn

I asked 16 people to work ½ day on a weekend.

For free.

12 said yes.

It wasn’t just LinkedIn, of course.

But it certainly helped.

Three things you can do to get there: • grow• “tighten”• “work” your network with LinkedIn.

Before you start, set concrete objectives.

Example: “sell marketing advice to blue chip companies”

Numbers matter – so grow a large network.

Plenty of existing networks out there.

Plug into whichever one is right.

Create your own network if you can’t find a right one

LinkedIn begins offline.

With business cards.

Why on Earth would I click on “Accept”?

A bit more work, but clearly better.

To “tighten” your network, help others discover you and stay visible.

Your LinkedIn profile is usually the top result when people look for you.

Start with a good photo.

And a list of things you do, obviously.

Your activity shows on your profile.

So be active!

Got a blog?

Plug it in!

Read something interesting?

Share!

Good recommendations tell a lot.

When you recommend someone, make an effort.

Your groups tell a lot about your interests.

Be Proactive.

Build a group around problem area, not your company. Step in occasionally, but let others run it.

Be Proactive.

Post discussions in relevant groups.

Respond.

Be Proactive.Send a small Congrats! email.

Become an expert: answer questions

Get to know people over lunch.

Give stuff away.

Be careful not to burn your network, though.

That was just homework.

Here’s why you did it.

This is the man I would like to meet.

Who in my network can help?

Want more info before you contact yuor target? Ask offline.

Advanced search:look for 2nd degree contacts, though 3rd degree works too.

Good reading. Free, too. http://www.how-to-really-use-linkedin.com/

Thanks for listening!

leo.exter@westartup.eu

www.westartup.eu

@leoexter

www.facebook.com/westartup

Having fun with LinkedIn.

Geeky, but possible.

http://inmaps.linkedinlabs.com/