Monday, June 29, 2009

CKME Marketing Tips 101: LinkedIn Groups Are A Powerful Tool

Are you looking for ways to share press releases or news articles, or to seek out new clients? Linkedin groups are a great way for you to connect with others in your geographical area or with individuals who share a similar interest. Groups allow you do my favorite three things: learn, market, and network. You also have the opportunity to create your own group, and, as of last week, to create subgroups within your group. This article focuses on five major ways you can use your LinkedIn groups to enhance your LinkedIn and professional experience:


1. Add value. I talk about adding value all the time because I feel it’s the most important way to participate in groups. When you share articles, information, and your expertise, you come across as an expert in your field or industry. Start utilizing the news feature and share one or two articles a day and you will start noticing you will get more connection requests and individuals looking forward to your articles. The news tab is also a great place to post press releases.


2. Participate in & start discussions. In group discussions, you can seek expertise, ask questions, and discuss topics that are important to you and your group members. If you prefer not to start discussions, then make comments on other people's discussions.


3. Use the Jobs tab. The Jobs tab is one of the most under-used features of LinkedIn groups. If you have an opening or are looking for work, start using the Jobs tab in the groups you belong to. Don't be afraid to post a job that you might have seen somewhere other than on LinkedIn if you think it could be beneficial to someone looking for work.


4. Send messages. One nice thing about belonging to groups is that it gives you the opportunity to send messages to fellow group members whether you are connected to them or not, without having to send a connection or introduction request.


5. Join groups. LinkedIn allows you to join up to 50 groups. Why not join as many as you can and start getting involved? Get your name out there, start participating, promote your events, ask questions, and get advice. If you have a particular interest or are in an industry and you don't notice a group for that industry or interest then start your own group and promote it to your network.


Groups can open doors for you. I have met many people through the groups I belong to and have even found new clients because I have shared value and participated in group discussions. I even have my own group called the Business Success Network which I have designed to give people another option to learn, market, and network.


What groups do you belong to? Have you started your own groups? Where have you gained value?


Have a marketing question? Send me an email to ckokalis@ckmemarketinggroup.com, also don't forget to check out www.soccalliveonline.com to learn more about our LinkedIn Live networking events.


Chris Kokalis
President/CEO
CKME Group Inc.
414-755-2410 Milwaukee Office
310-492-5058 LosAngelesOffice
www.ckmemarketinggroup.com
www.socalliveonline.com
www.linkedin.com/in/ckmegroup
www.midwestbusinessexpo.com

Edited by Brenda Bernstein, www.TheEssayExpert.com

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