LinkedIn Local is a movement that has been popping up in cities across not only the U.S, but the entire world.
For those of you that have not heard of it, LinkedIn Local is a networking event where professionals come together to build new relationships, leverage the power of their LinkedIn connections, and share insights on how to get the most out of this amazing platform.
Buffalo's first #LinkedInLocal event took place last night at Big Ditch Brewery. Hosted by Michael Spence and Judd Laurie, the venue quickly filled with a wide range of individuals interested in expanding their network and knowledge.
Alongside our two hosts, the speaker panel also featured Claire Petrie, an HR Manager and Recruitment Specialist, as well as myself (Brian Cleary, local social media marketing guy - Nice to meet you!).
Aside from meeting a bunch of new people, exchanging stories/business cards, and talking about ways to make each other stronger, the event gave us some extremely valuable takeaways.
After wrapping my head around the success we achieved last night, I've managed to wrap up a few actionable tips that everyone in attendance captured first-hand.
What We Learned From The Speaker Panel & Attendees
1. Keep It Simple
With any social media, it's a common mistake to over-think and waste time trying to put together the "secret recipe" for success. When it comes down to it, all that matters is that you start with a goal - what do you want to get out of this platform?
From there, you need to execute. Figure out what value you bring to the table and use LinkedIn's features to strengthen your efforts. Connect with the people that you know will relate to your own story and content. If you aren't a content creator, use it to find like-minded professionals or find mentors. There are so many rewarding aspects of being an avid LinkedIn user, it's up to you to find your role and to achieve the results you desire!
2. LinkedIn is More Than Just Your Resume
In it's most basic form yes, LinkedIn is a reflection of your career and your resume. But the platform has grown so much and there are no signs of it slowing down. Just like Facebook or Instagram, LinkedIn's news feeds are full of influencers, experts in every field, interactive content, and endless amounts of knowledge.
Use this platform to it's fullest extent and take advantage of the resources. Why not send a message to a CEO, VP, Manager, etc? Why not take a chance at building a relationship with somebody in a position of power? Why not build your own community of followers?
Go ask questions, share your own journey, and find those opportunities that everybody else is sleeping on. Glassdoor and Indeed are great, but go connect with a few individuals that can directly help you reach your goals and see which avenue works faster. Open your mind and explore.
3. Be Present & Be Consistent
The people that get the most out of social media are the ones that make it a part of their everyday routine and implement it into their plans.
Just show up!
If you want to position yourself as a resource or an expert, then you need to be willing to share your thoughts on a regular basis. Users are scrolling on their phone for hours every day looking for the next piece of content to catch their eye. That next piece of content could be yours.
Your smartphone camera is good enough. You don't need fancy equipment to get started. Try creating some video or take a few pictures. Tie them to an engaging post and hit publish. Now rinse & repeat.
Find out what your target audience wants to see or hear. Then you can share content on a regular basis and continuously provide the value that they desire.
LinkedIn is for everyone. No matter what niche you're in.
Thank You to Everyone That Joined Us at the first #LinkedInLocal #Buffalo
If you want to learn more about this event, feel free to reach out. There will be more events to come.
Does your city have #LinkedInLocal yet? If not, launch an event and share your results. We'd love to hear about it.
Good Luck Everyone! Trust the Power of LinkedIn.
