LinkedIn might not be the sexiest social media platform out there, but it still holds a lot of appeal to marketers.
From the platform’s new reaction buttons to its algorithm's affinity for influencers, we figured it was time to ask our #SMTLive Twitter chatters to share their LinkedIn experiences. If you weren’t able to log on during the chat itself, here’s a recap of what went down.
On setting up a company page
A1: Claim your LinkedIn Company Page Public URL #SMTLIVE https://t.co/RLwugoKvWl
— Jennifer Baker (@JenniferBakerCo) May 28, 2019
This user seems to think of LinkedIn as a fabulous place to utilize the marketing capabilities of a vanity URL. Use something short, sweet, and branded, such as the example above, in order to help keep your company’s page professional-looking and easy for people to find.
A1: Imagery and details help. Think of it as your SERP/directory listing on THE B2B network. #SMTLive
— Robin Selvy Re (@RobinSelvy) May 28, 2019
Visual content's success seems to apply to LinkedIn, too.
Using LinkedIn’s features to grow your business
A2: Start using hashtags in all posted content to be found within alternative locations on the platform. #smtlive
— Jennifer Baker (@JenniferBakerCo) May 28, 2019
People seemed enthusiastic about using hashtags strategically and often on the platform.
They've certainly upped their hashtag game lately! #smtlive
— Jennifer Baker (@JenniferBakerCo) May 28, 2019
Like, very enthusiastic.
Hashtags have been super effective, especially for organic reach. From a paid social perspective, their B2B targeting capabilities are unmatched (ie: ABM). Fantastic lead quality. #SMTLive
— meg (@meganvgavin) May 28, 2019
But besides hashtags, there are certainly other ways to help your business succeed on the platform. For instance, having employees share company content on their personal LinkedIn accounts was brought up.
A3 Making sure your entire team is on LinkedIn, sharing your page's content with their own network. Joining groups is also a great way to make higher value connections. #SMTLive
— A Little Bird (@alittlebirdus) May 28, 2019
And thought leadership, as well as staying relevant on the platform, was also encouraged.
A3: Showcase thought leadership and case studies (where applicable).
— IMI (@iMarketingInc) May 28, 2019
Share content regularly with relevant hashtags for added reach.
Sponsor a post (or create a @LinkedIn ad). #SMTLive
What this group thought about LinkedIn groups
#SMTLive had mixed reactions about using LinkedIn groups for businesses. While many argued that the tool has a lot of potential, most agreed that they’re underutilized, or at least not utilized well across the board.
A4: With all the changes LinkedIn keeps making to groups, it's harder and harder to find true value in between the spammers and nonrelevant links. BUT when good content is shared, it's ???? #SMTLive
— Robin Selvy Re (@RobinSelvy) May 28, 2019
Moderators, take note.
Yes, you have to be really monitoring groups so that you don't allow people to come in and just fill the feed with their sales pitches. #SMTLive
— Social Media Today (@socialmedia2day) May 28, 2019
Some notes on what not to do…
Yes, LinkedIn has a lot of potential for those looking to market their businesses or personal brands. However, the platform makes it pretty easy to commit some bad social/marketing faux pas, according to our #SMTLive chat.
This one might just be the worst of them all:
A6: Automation and spammy connections/messaging. #SMTLive
— IMI (@iMarketingInc) May 28, 2019
In an age where we talk about how important it is for marketers to stay authentic on social, one #SMTLive participant noted that LinkedIn’s automated comments seem like a bad engagement tactic as well.
A5 I think automated comments or copy/paste comments on every content piece are counter-productive as they actually make you/your company seem inauthentic. #SMTLive pic.twitter.com/ggkj7aXVq2
— A Little Bird (@alittlebirdus) May 28, 2019
Ok ok, just one more roast before we end this recap (apologies to whoever thought up this default message):
Worst default intro of all time. #SMTLive pic.twitter.com/73uVsKU9nk
— Robin Selvy Re (@RobinSelvy) May 28, 2019
Thanks so much for recapping this fun and informative #SMTLive Twitter chat with us. If you’re intrigued and want to chime into the next one, RSVP here. Also, shameless plug time, follow us on LinkedIn too!