LinkedIn...Does anyone use this? - Virtual Assistant Forums

Turtleb78 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone actually uses LinkedIn? If so, how do you use it? I am having trouble finding the use for this tool. Has anyone ever made solid contacts or found work through this site?

I am a little confused on Twitter as well but there are plenty of threads on here about Twitter that I am going to read.

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,
Sarah

Kerans VA · #2 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

Hi Sarah,

I haven't made extensive use of LinkedIn, but my understanding is that to get the most benefit from it you need to actively participate. Because it is a social networking tool and similar to Twitter in that respect, you gain the biggest benefits when you participate. With LinkedIn, you can ask questions and engage other professionals, you can also answer questions to demonstrate your knowledge. By expanding your network, you of course, also expand your possible client base and it is a good place to engage your target market.

I am sure some of the other VAs that are more active on LinkedIn can provide a more extensive answer. I know Kathie Thomas is very active on LinkedIn and she can probably explain it better, lol.

Good luck!

Turtleb78 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

Hi Kate,

Thanks for that explanation. I was a little confused on where to go from the home page and wasn't sure it would be completely useful but this makes sense.

I will look further into it.

Sarah

CMColeman · #4 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

I'm not using LinkedIn extensively myself at this point, but it is on my "list". I do know from conversations with those who do use it, the advice is to participate in the Questions/Answers area to establish yourself as a knowledgeable contact.

I haven't spent enough time working on my presence in LinkedIn, and have been focusing on Twitter for now, simply due to the ease of use.

The Virtual Resource · #5 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

I haven't used LinkedIn for my VA business - yet. But I did attend a Social Media seminar and the teacher said that some use the Groups feature to a) find potential clients, and b) access the future needs of your clients.

It is seems that if you sign up with groups (that tie in with your specialties, you can learn what bugs them and offer solutions and become an unofficial expert on topics)
And if they start to recognize your name they are more likely to turn to you if they need help. Now that was my teacher's theory. One I have not tested. :-)

Action Jackson VA · #6 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

I have been contacted by local clients through LinkedIn so it is a good way to have local clients find you. Also, it helps your Google ratings. I type in my Business name and LinkedIn is one of the first things that comes up.

Andrea~

Office Goddess · #7 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

I signed up with Linked In shortly after starting Goddess. I have a few links, but am currently so busy I haven't really participated much in the forums. I joined right away so I could 'capture' the screen name I wanted.

Turtleb78 · #8 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009

Thanks for the great information everyone. I will have to get more into the blogs and get my name out there in with the local businesses.

Andrea I am glad to hear you have success with this site. I will certainly keep your tips in mind.

virtuallyrobin · #9 (**permalink**) 06-25-2009

Thanks for asking this question... I was wondering myself. I signed up with Linked-In over a year ago but haven't done anything with it. I think I will head over there, now that I have read this thread, and join some groups.

Thanks again for some great information everyone!!! :-)

Robin
_________________________
Virtually Robin

GladysS · #10 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

I finally joined this spring and am slowly putting my information on there. I have joined several goups for VAs and small biz owners, and really do need to get more active on there. I have a friend who is job hunting, and I want to get her set up on there, so anything I learn from setting up my profile will help get hers up and going.

A_Virtual_Jewel · #11 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Recently, I created a presence on LinkedIn and found your post most informative. I'll be looking into that aspect very soon. Thank you -- joylew57.

An Iowa native -- Judy

JLEVA · #12 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

The concept is pretty straightforward in YouTube's Linekedin in Plain English:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXDaywPfRuk

Janet

Turtleb78 · #13 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Hi Janet,

Thanks for the video. I will check that out for sure.

Sarah

Encompass Business Services · #14 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Thanks for the pointers. As with several others, I have a profile started, but not quite sure where to go with it (it's sitting on my list as well!) The video link helps tons - thanks again!

Monica

JDunkin · #15 (**permalink**) 06-26-2009

Hi - yes, I use LinkedIn. I've made some very good connections that are promising for the future, but no actual work, yet.
I do like it because I have recommendations out there from people I've worked with. My "About Us" page on my website (cornerofficenorthwest.com) has a link to my public profile on LinkedIn, which hopefully boosts credibility.
My philosophy is: if it's free and it gets your name and credentials out there, do it!