Your LinkedIn Footprint |

LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking site whose basic service is free to use. It has over 70 million members in over 200 countries. A new member joins LinkedIn at an amazing rate of approximately one person every second. The purpose of the site is to allow registered users to maintain a list of contact details of people they know and trust in business, called “connections” (professional network) which is one of your most valuable assets in the success of your career. Linkedin helps you make better use of your professional network and help the people you trust in return.

What exactly can LinkedIn do for you?

Allows you to stand out, be active, be proactive and be visible!
It can be used to find potential clients, other connections and business opportunities recommended by one of your connections (people you already know). You can also gain an introduction to someone you may wish to know.
It can be used to establish new business relationships by joining and participating in LinkedIn groups. Groups can be created in any subject and by any member of LinkedIn. Some groups are specialized groups dealing with a narrow domain or industry whereas others are very broad and generic in nature.
Build your credibility, reputation and presence by participating in groups. Demonstrate that you are an expert in your business so people will seek you out for your opinion, answers and consultation.
Build and make your social proof (recommendations, product or service reviews and testimonials) publicly available.
Allows you to research and “follow” companies that you may be interested in working with.

What will I do for you on LinkedIn?

Create a full profile, not just a resume rehash.
Build or increase your connections (starting and ending number provided).
Research and join groups that are appropriate for your area of expertise and target audience.
Create a group of your own that fills a need for the audience you’re targeting in your business field.
Build or increase your social proof from your current and past colleagues and business associates (will provide a starting and ending number).
Make your profile publicly visible and create its own unique URL.
Add presentations or reading lists if applicable.
Provide your LinkedIn profile HTML code to your web programmer so a Linkedin button can be added to your website.
Customize your website links on your LinkedIn profile