linkedin-dreamstale45So you’re on LinkedIn and you’ve added in your work history, skills, and current place of work. Maybe you’ve joined a few groups, but you really haven’t had the time to dive into the discussions or even read the discussion topics for that matter. When was the last time you even checked in with your connections?

Unfortunately, so many users don’t make it past the static resume layout to find out what a powerful tool LinkedIn can be. Don’t let LinkedIn fool you. There is more to the site than meets the eye.

“LinkedIn proved to be the most effective social media channel for lead generation – 277% more effective, in fact” as reported on the Hubspot blog. LinkedIn is continuously adding more features to help their business audience network with associates, clients, and customers while raising awareness to attract newcomers.

Take advantage of having a two-way communication channel with your target market. Think networking event, but virtual. With LinkedIn’s status update capabilities, blog linkage, Twitter feed, business pages to include products and services, and credibility reinforcement from your connections, there are so many opportunities to connect with your audience and drive traffic to your website.

“LinkedIn is the most powerful tool for business owners who want to create an online network of like-minded professionals and to build a massive audience,” stated Lewis Howes, an entrepreneur who leveraged LinkedIn to create a seven-figure business in three years.

I challenge you to take some time to test a few of the tools and options that are available with a LinkedIn profile and I’ll bet you will find a lot of opportunity to leverage business through it’s use.

Let us know how you use LinkedIn and how it’s helped your business connect.