In today’s manufacturing industry, the selling environment is radically different than it was just four months ago, and most salespeople are in the process of redefining their strategies, tools and tactics. At Okuma America, I’ve been inspired by what I see happening with our own salespeople and those at our distributors. One of the tools we’re focusing on is LinkedIn, and we’re experiencing some great momentum with this platform. I believe that manufacturing is currently seeing just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the potential for LinkedIn’s effectiveness as a sales facilitator and brand builder. For those wanting to dive in a bit deeper, here I’ll offer some helpful tips for using LinkedIn to enhance sales processes and expand awareness of your company or personal brand.
Why LinkedIn?
The First Thing the Customer Buys is You. Every great salesperson knows, developing great rapport and relationships is the springboard to success. In an increasingly virtual business environment, this can become a challenge. Establishing a trustworthy LinkedIn profile and cultivating a reputation as a leading, go-to expert in your field will warm up sales leads and keep you and your company top-of-mind.
A Big Misperception. Back in 2003, when LinkedIn first launched, it was used primarily as a job search and recruiting website, however today that kind of activity represents just a fraction of the overall activity. For any professional wanting to advance and enrich their career, LinkedIn is a central networking place and an actual news outlet that helps you stay up to date with your colleagues, competitors, and industry-at-large. It’s also a very effective place to enhance the reputation and awareness of your company’s brand.
Watch: The Modern Buyer Has Changed with Jill Rowley