Social media provides small businesses the opportunity to create useful connections with other businesses, which can lead to profitable leads. One of the best ways to network with other companies in a virtual space is LinkedIn® because it's designed specifically for professionals. To successfully use LinkedIn for business networking, utilize these five tips.

5 Tips for Using LinkedIn® for Business Networking

1. Optimize Your Profile

First, optimize your profile. One aspect of this is to ensure all sections are complete, so go through and fill out necessary information. A completely finished profile exudes credibility and professionalism.

You also need to optimize your profile with keywords. While many of these should be associated with your brand and industry, you also need to utilize geographical terms and phrases so other local businesses and professionals can find you. Placing the name of your town and region throughout your profile's copy will increase your ranking in LinkedIn's built-in search function.

2. Seek Out & Connect With Other Businesses

To begin business networking, you need to seek out others on the platform and request to connect with them. Start with other local businesses in your community that you have already worked with in the past and then move onto companies you would like to build a relationship with. When you send a connection request, add a quick yet tailored message that personalizes the request so they'll feel more comfortable accepting it.

3. Join & Engage With Groups

LinkedIn's search function takes search terms and filters them by groups. Utilize this method to find groups that match your company's specialties and then engage with other members by answering questions or getting involved in discussions. 

4. Post Consistently

Another important aspect of building your LinkedIn network is posting consistently. Focus on providing educational content that helps potential clients solve a problem. This should also relate to your business, including product or service highlights. To ensure you post routinely, create a social media content calendar that follows a regular posting schedule.

5. Interact Regularly

To get the most out of your LinkedIn, at least in terms of networking, you need to prioritize regular interactions with connections. Unlike your posts or group interactions, this step should be focused more on friendly communication within your network. Small actions, like congratulating other businesses on milestones, help build strong relationships.

LinkedIn offers many business networking opportunities for small businesses, but you can expand your web of connections further by joining a local business organization. South Fulton Chamber of Commerce in East Point, GA, is dedicated to helping their members grow their brands through a variety of small business opportunities, like networking events. Learn more their development opportunities by visiting them online or by calling (770) 782-2057.