In my October 2020 article, I focused on the first step to creating results on LinkedIn – optimising your personal LinkedIn profile*. The next step is to build a useful network to assist you in achieving your professional or business goals. Growing a targeted network is critical to creating results on LinkedIn which makes it different from other platforms. How quickly this happens is down to how much work you are willing to put in.
The key steps to building a useful network include reviewing who’s already in your network; assessing who you want and need to help you achieve your professional goals; and then searching for your ideal audience, clients, colleagues and business groups. When you find them, research their profiles and the content they’re posting so that you can send them a customised invitation. Then, when they link in with you, thank them and welcome them to your network.
Who’s in your network?
When I begin working with a new client, I ask them what percentage of their LinkedIn network is made up of their ideal clients or audience? Very often the response is that if they had to guess, only 10-20% of their network is made up of ideal people for their businesses. Usually, their LinkedIn network has grown organically over time and without a deliberate strategy and so it’s comprised of people they have worked with, gone to university with, friends and gym- or golf buddies. I want to put you in the driver’s seat by changing that.
Who do you need to achieve your goals?
