The Power of Linkedin in 20 Quick Tips

With more than 450 million members, Linkedin (now owned by Microsoft) is the most popular social network for professionals and one of the top social networks overall.

With new social networks sprouting up constantly, Linkedin is the platform that often gets underutilized or put on the back burner.  But the truth is, Linkedin can be extremely powerful, especially when you're aware of all the platform's hidden features that don't get nearly as much attention as they deserve.

Before we jump to the 20 Quick Tips, how about a little background on Linkedin.

Linkedin was launched in 2003 and is currently the third most popular network in terms of unique monthly visitors, right behind Facebook and Twitter.  Linkedin is Facebook with more professional features.  The social network is primarily centered about careers, entrepreneurs and sales professionals.   Linkedin enables users to connect and share content with other professionals, including colleagues as well as potential employers, business partners and new employees.   If you are a business on Linkedin, it can be also a fantastic marketing tool!

So are you ready for some Linkedin tips?

1. Customize your public profile URL - use your name in your public profile so people can find you.

2. Add a Linkedin background photo to your personal profile - this gives your Linkedin profile a little more personality.

3. Create a profile badge for your personal website or blog.

4. Search engine optimize your Linkedin Profile - Add keywords to various sections of your profile such as your headline or in your summary.

5. Add, remove, and rearrange entire sections of your profile - Linkedin enables you to reorder entire sections of your profile in any way you prefer.

6. Take advantage of Saved Searches - Linkedin allows users to save up to ten job searches and three people searches.

7. Quickly convert your Linkedin profile into a resume - Linkedin comes with a Resume Building Tool.

8. Get endorsed for your skills - Enable users to endorse their connections for skills they've listed in the Skills section of their profile.

9. Check your network updates regularly - This is your newsfeed similar to Facebook.

10. Check out who's viewed your Linkedin profile -  Has someone been checking your profile that you might want to connect with?

11. Export Your Connections to a file - Did you know you can export your Linkedin Connections to a CSV file and manage and import to your email contacts?

12. Leverage the Perks of Linkedin Groups -  Linkedin allows you to send up to 15 messages to fellow group members per month..

13. Share Your Linkedin Status updates on Twitter - simply add your Twitter account to Linkedin and sync them.

The following tips are for businesses -

14. Optimize Your Linkedin Company Page - use all features of the Company Page and use key words!

15. Create targeted Linkedin Showcase Pages - use to promote specific products and services to a niche audience.

16. Use Linkedin Pulse to keep track of industry news - this is better than reading a magazine!

17. Use Linkedin to Generate Leads - post content and share links to your blog posts and landing pages and add a "call to action" to generate a great lead.

18. Create your own industry Linkedin Group and Join other relevant Groups - establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry.

19. Recruit new talent via Linkedin Careers - continue to keep your Company Page up to date with new opportunities.

20. Analyze your Linkedin Marketing Performance - use the Analytics tab in Company Pages to see what is working.

There you have it!   There is so much to learn so if you need help, contact AIMC Business Solutions and get a free consultation!

Why Does Network Marketing Get Such A Bad Rap?

Why does network marketing get such a bad rap?

Here is the definition of network marketing from wikipedia.org

Multi-level marketing (MLM), also called pyramid selling,network marketing, and referral marketing, is a controversial, pyramid-shaped marketing strategy where profit is theoretically derived from two revenue streams: from direct sales to customers and from commission based on the sales of recruited team members, also known as down line distributors. MLM salespeople are expected to sell products directly to consumers by means of relationship referrals and word of mouth marketing. They are also incentivized to recruit others to join the company as distributors.

Hmm.... if you were an aspiring entrepreneur and saw this definition, wouldn't you run as far away as possible from this business idea?

Unfortunately that is the perception today with network marketing, internet marketing or whatever you want to call it.

But is it really that bad?   Let's evaluate our options.

Everyone is looking for something today.   Let's be serious, it is the world we are in.

So here are our options.

Corporate America is not trusted and there is no loyality anymore.  Would you be loyal to company giving you a 2% percent raise every year just for busting your butt every day while the executives get all the bonuses?   Probably not.    There is not a corporation in America that shares every profit with every employee today.   If there was one, let me know.  For this reason, everyone is dreaming of that side business to take them away from the rigors of Corporate America.

Starting a Franchise is expensive... very expensive, with little return.  An average McDonalds franchise caps you at $100k earnings per store per year, even after a $1.5 million dollar investment for one franchise store.  And that is on top of the fees and royalties you would have to pay.  Sounds like a great deal, huh?   Not.

How about starting your own business?   Maybe a consulting business, a restaurant, a salon, or a gym?   Like Franchises, you would have to invest a significant amount of money and build a supporting network or organization such as accountants, lawyers, operation manager, marketing, technology, distribution, and maybe a coach to help you put it all together.  And like franchises, for little return.   You want a life?  Forget about it!

How about getting another job?   Didn't you always want to be a bartender at the local bar after a long day at the Corporate office?   Hmm..  let's waste more time for money and little return except dragging out of bed the next morning.  Rock on!

What is left?

You got it.... Network Marketing.

What really is network marketing?
This is my own definition.

Network Marketing a method for marketing a product or service with your network of like-minded professionals.  Network Marketing encourages a team concept where all participating professionals work toward a common goal of financial independence and life satisfaction.

There are thousands of network marketing companies out there.  But which one is best for you.

The first question is what is your passion?   It is health & wellness? technology? energy? travel?

Once you have found your passion, do a simple google search using "network marketing <your passion>" and see what companies appear.

The next task is go to the Better Business Bureau to see how ethical they are.   Do not do a google search about the company, since you may come across disgruntled people that had a bad experience probably since they didn't work the business and thought the business did not work.

After that, search the company on You Tube to get a feel what the company is all about.

At this point, find a contact and then set up a meeting to learn more about the network marketing business with a network marketing professional.   The approach to the business is key to success.

You will find the investment is minimal for the potential that you can achieve with a little hard work.   At the same time, you will be learning on how to run a business, how to interact with people and make a sale and be making money doing it.

A positive mindset and thick skin is important.   You will run into the negative people that have all the answers and call your business a scam.    If the business was scam, it would not in business, right?   Gee, how about companies like Wells Fargo, any insurance company, any company that pushes products that people don't need while executives get all the bonuses?   Now that is a SCAM!

The fear of someone else being successful is one of the reasons why network marketing gets such a bad rap?  Your typical Corporate Joe with his 2% raise is the one telling you your business is a scam.  Obviously, the ones that succeed are the ones that blocks out the negative and focuses on the positive and surrounds themselves with the right people.

So what is your next step?
Evaluate your dreams, your goals, and your future.   Determine your why?  And then how you get there, do your homework,  then get started.   Life is too short to wait!

Why Wealthy Successful People Are Always Learning and the Unsuccessful Are Not

I have recently completed my performance appraisals of my team at my corporate job this week and overall they all went really well, except one.

One employee gave themselves the highest marks for all the competencies they were rated for in the review.   They proceeded to gloat to me how great they are and how they don't need to learn anymore. I tended to disagree and rated this employee not in line with their own reality and the result was an upset dejected employee.    My first question to this employee after they were done gloating, was if they thought they had any development needs and their response was no.   My second question was if they felt they were in the right role in the organization.  The look after my question was priceless. After all, if you are not learning everyday, you become stagnant and bored with your profession,  This person tended to disagree.

As a result of this meeting, it cemented in me, the fact I knew all along, the difference between wealthy successful professionals and the ones that are just getting by.  Generally, the professionals are that are successful in life are the ones that approach every day, always learning something new and focusing on how they can get better.  This employee was apparently happy just getting by.

Listen to Tom Brady of the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots, who after five Super Bowl wins, always look for ways to get better and be more successful at his next game.  Tom is still critical on how he performs and takes it upon himself to take initiative to get better.  What an inspiration for all!

You hear Rich People Read Books.

 Poor People Watch Drama TV.

Rich People look for ways to Invest Money.  Poor People look for ways to Spend Money.

We are an information age and have the capabilities with a simple smart phone to learn anything anytime.   If someone does not realize what they have access to, it is unfortunate to them and they end up poor.

So pick up a great book, inspire yourself, always learn and get rich in knowledge and finances.  You will be successful, guaranteed!

Harness the Power of Linkedin: How to Get The Most Out of Your Profile

As an online networking tool, LinkedIn may not be as social as Facebook or witty as Twitter, but the power it holds for connecting professionals across the globe is unparalleled.  LinkedIn can increase exposure, boost credibility, and attract new business.

While job searches are a common use for LinkedIn, the social network enables much more:

• Search and join LinkedIn discussions groups that align with your interests.
• Download quality mobile apps that help you conduct business quickly and efficiently. 
• Endorse and be endorsed. Your contacts can choose to endorse skills listed on your profile based on their experience from working with you, thereby increasing your credibility. Endorsements can also be used as a prospecting tool when trying to gain the attention of a potential client or recruit.

Before updating your LinkedIn profile or signing up for LinkedIn, first think about the reason you're using LinkedIn and what you want to get out of the network. 

Do you want to recruit new employees? 

Find a new career or job for yourself? 

Connect with industry professionals? 

Increase your online presence?

Getting the most out of LinkedIn begins with your profile:

• Post a recent professional head shot to allow others to put a name to your face. This is also a great networking tool after meeting someone to help them remember your name, face, and job title.
• Make the most of the real estate that is your headline. Keep it concise but memorable, and make sure to highlight what you do.
• Your profile summary should be about you and what you do at your company, complete with examples and specific details. When writing your profile summary, include common industry keywords that allow other users to find you.
• Increase your visibility by posting regular statuses.
• Add sections to your profile. Have you received honors or awards? Do you want to highlight knowledge of foreign languages? Add sections to showcase your strengths, experience, and knowledge.
• Thoughtfully research and choose groups to join, or start your own.
• Connect with other professionals.

Before joining groups and adding connections, customize your account and privacy settings to ensure that your LinkedIn profile has the privacy features in place with which you feel most comfortable.
Once you've established your profile, check it and update it regularly. Post status updates with links to industry-specific articles and professionals accomplishments, or re-share a post that you enjoyed. This keeps your profile fresh and updated, showing your connections that you are engaged and dynamic.

Regardless of your goals, LinkedIn lays the groundwork to build a professional network, connect with industry peers, and build your professional image. 

If you like to learn more about Linkedin, come to the next presentation and networking event with AIMC Business Solutions at the Microsoft Store in Natick, MA on Wednesday, March 22nd from 6:30pm-8pm.  Please RSVP at http://mpnetworking0322.eventbrite.com.   If you cannot make this event, contact Jeff for a consultation.

My Week of Inspiration in Florida - Sports - Music - Business

Every February I escape the cold and snow of Greater Boston to the warmth and sunshine of Florida.  My trip is a mix of work and play.  The work is attending my internet marketing business conference and a few business meetings at the Starbucks at South Beach.   The play is going to the beach, visiting my parents and of course enjoying a Mojito at the Clevelander in South Beach.   Some years I am down there in time for the Super Bowl and watching the game at the Boston themed Sports Bar The Village Pump in Fort Lauderdale.   After the trip is complete, I usually come back to Boston, refreshed, tan and ready to take my business to the next level.

This year's trip had a lot more buzz, inspiration and has given me drive to succeed more than ever in my business and in life.

It started on Super Bowl Sunday watching the Pats take on the Falcons outdoors on the big screen at the Village Pump.   There is something about watching football wearing shorts and sandals and it is extra special seeing the Pats.   If there was ever a game that was inspiring, this was it.   The Patriots were down 28-3 late in the third quarter.   It didn't look good.  However, there was quiet confidence among the fans at the Village Pump.   The Patriots have some guy named Tom Brady as the quarterback and Bill Belichick as coach.    Tom had his game face on, and proceeded to bring the Patriots back to tie the game and regulation and then win the game in overtime.   The Village Pump crowd was delirious in excitement.

Let's just say it ain't over until it is over.  Whether you are in business or trying to do the impossible, there is always hope if you have the positive and determined mindset Tom Brady and the Patriots had that ever faithful night.   Tom made me proud and determined.

After that I proceed to spend the next couple of days getting my dose of Vitamin D going to the beach in Sebastian and Vero Beach, which are some of the most beautiful areas on the east coast of Florida.    I started reading a great book from T. Harv Eker's classic, "Secrets of a Millionaire Mind".  The basis is to think like a wealthy person versus like a poor person.  Great tips.

So it was Tuesday night, and my parents took me out for my birthday dinner at a great Vero Beach restaurant and then my Mom mentioned she was taking me to a Jazz Jam.  A Jazz Jam?   For someone that likes hard rock and alternative rock, this was a step outside my comfort zone.

I actually enjoyed the music,  The Anderson Trio from New York were the headliners and I was amazing and inspired how complicated playing jazz music is.   This has inspired me to keeping learning how to play guitar and maybe play in public some day.  

The week of inspiration continued.    And the Florida weather was amazing too.

So, the main reason I come down to Florida in early February was to attend my business conference for my Market America internet business in which my companies AIMC Business Solutions, AIMC Health Solutions and allinmycart.com is built around.   The Market America World Conference in Miami is the place to be to get inspired, learn about entrepreneurship and about new development in the business.

This year, there was a special buzz at the conference.   With today's economy, it is more important than ever to have multiple streams of income and be associated with a company that will help you meet your goals, learn about entrepreneurship and have the ability to help others do the same.

Some of the highlights of the conference was Loren Ridinger's amazing speech of going "Out of Bounds" and out of your comfort zone and Fat Joe talking about going "All The Way Up".   There were also sessions on health/wellness and new developments with shop.com and Shop Local.   All in all, it was inspiring for me to be in this business and help others succeed.

What a way to end the week.  Right?  Wrong.

My flight back to Boston got delayed due to weather.   Another day in South Florida?   Cool.   So what did I do?   I went to the beach of course to Key Biscayne/Cape Florida.    The beauty and warmth of this place is amazing, inspiring and made me reflect back at a my successful week in Florida.

So whether it is sports, seeing great music or attending an amazing conference, getting inspired is what I needed to get my life in gear and take my success to the next level.  Happy 2017!

Running An IT Organization Is Like Running A Business

With the changing dynamics of Information Technology today,  IT Professionals need to take a different approach to their work than in the past.  

In the past, if you were in IT, you were that geek with a tool belt that loved spending weekends taking their IBM computer apart and putting it back together.  The IT Geek also had their own "data center" in their garage, complete with a couple of networks, a SQL Server and a couple of Weblogic servers.

In a company setting, the IT group was looked at as a bunch of introverted, cranky people that sat in the basement of their company and considered a business process to be some kernel running on a UNIX server.   Most companies shoved their IT team under the Finance group, since all IT was is a cost to the company with no value and/or revenue to the bottom line.

Something happened to Information Technology around 5-10 years ago that became a commonplace for startups as well as established Fortune 500 companies.    IT departments became service departments, technology solved business problems and IT professionals became cool.   Cloud Computing was the norm, not a buzz work, organizations took ITIL seriously to help streamline business and technology processes.    Servers were now called Services.

I have been in IT for over 25 years now and have adapted to the changing dynamics to my profession.   In addition to my IT career, I have tapped into social media/internet marketing, entrepreneurship and business networking.   I went from IT Geek to a extroverted business professional and have no problem talking to people.   I am not your typical IT professional.

I started looking at my IT team as a "company" that provided technology services to my customers (other departments at my company).  Called it DeSocio Technology Services.  

I mentored my team to take the sales approach to solving technology issues.   A customer makes a request, the technician makes the initial call to acknowledge that they received the request, the technician assesses the issue and implements a solution.   For the next step, the technician would follow-up with the customer and assure that all questions and details are accounted for and then document the outcome of the request.    The team would continue to follow-up with their customers on a regular basis to build a working relationship, understand the business and be more proactive to technology needs.    A customer survey would be forwarded to the requester who would provide honest feedback about the IT Service that was provided.

Sounds like a sales approach, huh?   Well, it is.   The changing dynamic is that IT Professionals are constantly selling their services and knowledge but also have to have the personal approach in supporting their customers.   If they don't, they will be replaced.

Running an IT Organization is Like Running a Business.   I know since I do both.   If your IT group doesn't perform up to expectations, your group will be out of business and/or replaced.  That is a fact. 

So if you are in IT, get out of your basement, put the Dell Server aside, go to a networking event and become an extrovert.  It will take your career to the next level and you will understand why a sales approach is important in today's IT business world.

Why Linkedin Is King When It Comes to Prospecting & Building Relationships

Just think, it's 1995, you have a business and you had to generate leads and increase sales or else your business fails.   So what do you do?

You get on the phone and dial for dollars hoping at least one person will not hang up on you.

Or you spend thousands of dollars for an advertisement in the local paper or a 30-second commercial on the local radio or TV Station.

Nothing like working harder for little gain.

It's 2017, cold-calling is about as advanced as a Blackberry.

Advertising?   Now it is Facebook Advertising or Google Advertising.   A much more advanced and engaged way to advertise your products & services.    The issue, social media advertising costs money, sometimes lots of money.

Enter Linkedin - the king of social media when it comes to prospecting leads and increase sales.

Here are a few ideas for you to use Linkedin to prospect leads more effectively, without costing a dime, except your time.    The focus on using the tools Linkedin provides you to increase social media engagement between you and potential leads.

• Linkedin is a huge, never-ending networking event so you would like to have a great 30-second commercial and include it in the Summary Statement in your profile.  If something like this isn't in your Linkedin Profile, you're at a competitive disadvantage.
• If you invest a minute or so each working day clicking the "Connect" button on the "People You May Know" list that Linkedin posts in your feed, you will broaden your network.
• Ask for introductions to people you don't not know via a 1st Level Connection, before requesting to connect to them.    Don't be one of those "LIONs"  Linkedin Open Networker!
• Build you Leads List spending five minutes a day investigating the connections of your contacts to see who you don't know personally, but like to meet.
• Follow and monitor your connection's Company Page.   It is great conversation starter with your connections to discuss what is happening with their companies.
• Post an update each day that is educational and adds value to your connections.  DO NOT SELL when you post updates.
• Spend five minutes a day joining relevant groups.  Groups are a great way to add value to others, share insights, and build out your network with prospects.
• Recognize the accomplishments of others by posting a message to them and tagging their name.
• Spend five minutes a day to write a recommendation for a connection or client.   Don't wait for someone to write a recommendation for you.  Take the initiative!

If you have any questions, follow our company page for AIMC Business Solutions and let's build our leads list together!