Look Before You Learn How To Use Linked In

Are you using your eyes before you learn how to use LinkedIn? You've probably heard about the power of LinkedIn as a social networking tool and you're excited to be a part of the action. Congratulations, you're making a smart choice. LinkedIn is one of the most powerful ways to build relationships and connections. Its emphasis on professional networking makes it extremely valuable. It may not boast participation numbers like those of Facebook, but the people using it are the kind of folks you really want to know and reach.

Before you start creating your account and making connections, you need to pause for a moment. Don't let the excitement of getting involved stand in the way of good planning. If you want to maximize the value of LinkedIn, you'll want to do a little homework on the front end to learn how to use LinkedIn.

First, you'll want to really understand the contour and purpose of the site. You can use LinkedIn as a standard-issue, "say whatever is on your mind" platform, but that's not really going to help you that much. It has a different character, a different environment and specific features that can really provide a professional boost. You want to map the environment so you can figure out how you'll fit.

Second, you'll need to do a little thinking about keywords. Unless people are looking for you by name (or business name), they're going to find you while searching for keywords that are of interest to them and relevant to you. You'll need to think of the kind of keywords that really identify what you're all about and why you're using LinkedIn. Later, you'll make an effort to work those important signifiers into your profile.

Third, after you set up you account, you'll want to put on your copywriter's hat. You need to create a compelling profile. You want to make it clear to those who find you that you're the kind of person with whom they really want to network. If you want to get the most out of LinkedIn, you need to allow people to see you in your best light. Fill in every blank of your profile carefully. Use the right words. Be clear and interesting. Be compelling. If you have a fantastic profile, you'll begin to magnetically attract the kind of networking attention that will allow you to benefit from LinkedIn.

These are just three examples of the kind of things you'll want to resolve before you get actively involved in sharing and networking. There are others.

LinkedIn isn't rocket science, but using it in the best possible manner does require some forethought and planning. That's why many people can benefit tremendously from having a clearly written and professionally designed blueprint for LinkedIn involvement. When you have the right course of action mapped out in front of you, it's easy to be sure that you haven't missed anything important and that you know how to use LinkedIn effectively.