SOCIAL
How to Create & Optimize a LinkedIn Company Page
Most businesses in today’s digital-driven climate know the importance of social media and the reach it offers businesses.
Social media platforms allow businesses to communicate with customers during an emergency, highlight products and services, and even get real insight from customers about expectations, wants, and needs.
LinkedIn is certainly no exception to this.
The employment-oriented platform provides a professional atmosphere for many business operations including hiring, internal communication, and industry-related groups for information, events, and more.
However, all of these perks mean nothing if customers can’t find the business in the first place.
Or, if there isn’t enough information on the profile and a user loses interest – or the ability to learn what it needs about the company, the messaging really could be all for naught.
There is a bunch of different ways not having a LinkedIn profile could potentially hurt your business.
But the biggest reason for having one is the potential it creates for new business leads, partnerships, and opportunities that brands may just not find elsewhere.
Start a Company Page
The first step to ensuring people can do that is achieving organic visibility for your LinkedIn profile, not just on the platform, but through organic search and other tools that will drive traffic and, more importantly, engagement and relationships.
Start by creating your company page, if you haven’t already.
- You can do so by selecting the Work tab to the right of your profile icon in the top right corner of the window.
- Scroll to the bottom of that dropdown and you’ll find “Create a Company Page.”
- To do so, you’ll need to select the page type based on your business.
- Then you’ll begin populating important fields tied to Page Identity, Company Details, and Profile Details.
Make sure the Page Name is the official business name and consistent with all other online profiles.
This will ensure the Page is added as an official extension of the entity being built and indexed throughout Google and other search engines.
For the LinkedIn public URL, try to use something related to the official page name if the exact business name is unavailable. Try to use the official business name first, though.
Be sure the company details are accurate, especially the industry type. All of these inputs have an effect on the visibility of the Page.
For profile details, be sure to choose a logo that is consistent with the brand, namely the official logo that represents the company across the web.
It should be clear and meet the specific size recommendations of LinkedIn, which are 300 x 300px and either a JPG, JPEG, or PNG.
The same logo should be used for the brand on all social media and business profiles across the web.
For a tagline, use an approved brand slogan or tagline that summarizes the business but also entices a user to learn more about it and potentially trust it.
It’s recommended to also use keywords in it where possible, but it should be natural, and a keyword(s) should not just be added for “SEO reasons.”
You’ll need to check the verification box to confirm you have the right to act on behalf of the brand you are creating a page for as the last step on this page.
Then click “Create page” and you will then be prompted to start building your page out.
Build Out Your Page
Building out a Company Page is something that is commonly overlooked on LinkedIn and similar platforms.
But I shouldn’t be.
A complete profile is an optimized profile.
LinkedIn makes it well known that company profiles that are complete get more views – 30% more views per week, actually.
Similar stats exist for most, if not all, social media platforms.
LinkedIn also makes it easy to complete a profile.
In addition to laying out a step-by-step process for completing it, it also offers a checklist, which is visualized on the completion meter.
The completion meter, as it’s called by LinkedIn, will be available to page administrators from the admin dashboard officially called the Page’s Admin View until the page is 100% complete.
A page will be complete when the entire checklist is marked complete, including:
- Industry
- Company size
- Website URL
- Description
- Logo
- Street Address
- Custom button
- Your first post
- Hashtags
Moving down the checklist, the next field to complete is the description.
Even LinkedIn recommends including keywords here to help with visibility.
For instance, if your business is a car dealership, your description should include keywords like [car], [vehicle], and the flagship auto brand represented at the dealership, if there is one, just to name a few.
In addition to the page logo, which was covered above, a cover image is needed to optimize a brand profile. It should be 1,128px x 191px size and can be a JPG, JPEG, or PNG.
A cover image offers a bit more flexibility than a logo, so find a creative way to portray your business that can potentially make a first impression on many people and speaks to what the brand does and/or represents.
Like any online business profile, business location is important, especially for a brick-and-mortar location that people need to go to.
Consistency is important here just as it is with other mandatory fields in the profile.
The custom button feature offers five different call-to-action options:
- Visit website (default)
- Contact us
- Learn more
- Register
- Sign up
You can also, of course, customize where that CTA goes in respect to the URL destination for each specific action.
And there is the option to turn off the custom button completely in the upper-righthand corner.
Lastly, before posting your first post to complete the profile-setup checklist, add three hashtags related to topics important to your brand.
They should be high-level topics directly related to the brand like #cars, #cardealership, #bmwdealer, #newyorkcity, etc. (when sticking with the car dealership example).
Getting Engagement & Building Trust
The entire point of building out and optimizing a company’s LinkedIn profile is to not just to get it noticed on the web but to attract potential customers to the brand and its page through quality engagement.
That engagement eventually builds trust with the brand and the people operating it, and that could ultimately be what drives leads and business.
Of course, the best brands don’t focus on sales and leads.
They focus on being a valuable asset to the people they reach, however that may be.
It’s always best to act with the customer in mind. Keep that in mind every time you’re posting to your LinkedIn company page.
Don’t just post to LinkedIn to show that your page is alive.
Post with a purpose and offer your audience value.
That will help make an impression that matters and keep your brand top of mind when the time comes to rely on the brand for a product or service.
Image Credits
All screenshots taken by author, June 2020
SOCIAL
12 Proven Methods to Make Money Blogging in 2024
This is a contributed article.
The world of blogging continues to thrive in 2024, offering a compelling avenue for creative minds to share their knowledge, build an audience, and even turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger or just starting, there are numerous effective strategies to monetize your blog and achieve financial success. Here, we delve into 12 proven methods to make money blogging in 2024:
1. Embrace Niche Expertise:
Standing out in the vast blogosphere requires focus. Carving a niche allows you to cater to a specific audience with targeted content. This not only builds a loyal following but also positions you as an authority in your chosen field. Whether it’s gardening techniques, travel hacking tips, or the intricacies of cryptocurrency, delve deep into a subject you’re passionate and knowledgeable about. Targeted audiences are more receptive to monetization efforts, making them ideal for success.
2. Content is King (and Queen):
High-quality content remains the cornerstone of any successful blog. In 2024, readers crave informative, engaging, and well-written content that solves their problems, answers their questions, or entertains them. Invest time in crafting valuable blog posts, articles, or videos that resonate with your target audience.
- Focus on evergreen content: Create content that remains relevant for a long time, attracting consistent traffic and boosting your earning potential.
- Incorporate multimedia: Spice up your content with captivating images, infographics, or even videos to enhance reader engagement and improve SEO.
- Maintain consistency: Develop a regular publishing schedule to build anticipation and keep your audience coming back for more.
3. The Power of SEO:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ensures your blog ranks high in search engine results for relevant keywords. This increases organic traffic, the lifeblood of any monetization strategy.
- Keyword research: Use keyword research tools to identify terms your target audience searches for. Strategically incorporate these keywords into your content naturally.
- Technical SEO: Optimize your blog’s loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall technical aspects to improve search engine ranking.
- Backlink building: Encourage other websites to link back to your content, boosting your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines.
4. Monetization Magic: Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. When a reader clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you get a commission.
- Choose relevant affiliates: Promote products or services that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
- Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate relationships clearly to your readers and build trust.
- Integrate strategically: Don’t just bombard readers with links. Weave affiliate promotions naturally into your content, highlighting the value proposition.
5. Display Advertising: A Classic Approach
Display advertising involves placing banner ads, text ads, or other visual elements on your blog. When a reader clicks on an ad, you earn revenue.
- Choose reputable ad networks: Partner with established ad networks that offer competitive rates and relevant ads for your audience.
- Strategic ad placement: Place ads thoughtfully, avoiding an overwhelming experience for readers.
- Track your performance: Monitor ad clicks and conversions to measure the effectiveness of your ad placements and optimize for better results.
6. Offer Premium Content:
Providing exclusive, in-depth content behind a paywall can generate additional income. This could be premium blog posts, ebooks, online courses, or webinars.
- Deliver exceptional value: Ensure your premium content offers significant value that justifies the price tag.
- Multiple pricing options: Consider offering tiered subscription plans to cater to different audience needs and budgets.
- Promote effectively: Highlight the benefits of your premium content and encourage readers to subscribe.
7. Coaching and Consulting:
Leverage your expertise by offering coaching or consulting services related to your niche. Readers who find your content valuable may be interested in personalized guidance.
- Position yourself as an expert: Showcase your qualifications, experience, and client testimonials to build trust and establish your credibility.
- Offer free consultations: Provide a limited free consultation to potential clients, allowing them to experience your expertise firsthand.
- Develop clear packages: Outline different coaching or consulting packages with varying time commitments and pricing structures.
8. The Power of Community: Online Events and Webinars
Host online events or webinars related to your niche. These events offer valuable content while also providing an opportunity to promote other monetization avenues.
- Interactive and engaging: Structure your online events to be interactive with polls, Q&A sessions, or live chats. Click here to learn more about image marketing with Q&A sessions and live chats.
9. Embrace the Power of Email Marketing:
Building an email list allows you to foster stronger relationships with your audience and promote your content and offerings directly.
- Offer valuable incentives: Encourage readers to subscribe by offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access to new products.
- Segmentation is key: Segment your email list based on reader interests to send targeted campaigns that resonate more effectively.
- Regular communication: Maintain consistent communication with your subscribers through engaging newsletters or updates.
10. Sell Your Own Products:
Take your expertise to the next level by creating and selling your own products. This could be physical merchandise, digital downloads, or even printables related to your niche.
- Identify audience needs: Develop products that address the specific needs and desires of your target audience.
- High-quality offerings: Invest in creating high-quality products that offer exceptional value and user experience.
- Utilize multiple platforms: Sell your products through your blog, online marketplaces, or even social media platforms.
11. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations:
Partner with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored content or collaborations. This can be a lucrative way to leverage your audience and generate income.
- Maintain editorial control: While working with sponsors, ensure you retain editorial control to maintain your blog’s authenticity and audience trust.
- Disclosures are essential: Clearly disclose sponsored content to readers, upholding transparency and ethical practices.
- Align with your niche: Partner with brands that complement your content and resonate with your audience.
12. Freelancing and Paid Writing Opportunities:
Your blog can serve as a springboard for freelance writing opportunities. Showcase your writing skills and expertise through your blog content, attracting potential clients.
- Target relevant publications: Identify online publications, websites, or magazines related to your niche and pitch your writing services.
- High-quality samples: Include high-quality blog posts from your site as writing samples when pitching to potential clients.
- Develop strong writing skills: Continuously hone your writing skills and stay updated on current trends in your niche to deliver exceptional work.
Conclusion:
Building a successful blog that generates income requires dedication, strategic planning, and high-quality content. In today’s digital age, there are numerous opportunities to make money online through blogging. By utilizing a combination of methods such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling digital products or services, you can leverage your blog’s potential and achieve financial success.
Remember, consistency in posting, engaging with your audience, and staying adaptable to trends are key to thriving in the ever-evolving blogosphere. Embrace new strategies, refine your approaches, and always keep your readers at the forefront of your content creation journey. With dedication and the right approach, your blog has the potential to become a valuable source of income and a platform for sharing your knowledge and passion with the world, making money online while doing what you love.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos
SOCIAL
Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?
In a recent announcement, Snapchat revealed a groundbreaking update that challenges its traditional design ethos. The platform is experimenting with an option that allows users to defy the 24-hour auto-delete rule, a feature synonymous with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging model.
The proposed change aims to introduce a “Never delete” option in messaging retention settings, aligning Snapchat more closely with conventional messaging apps. While this move may blur Snapchat’s distinctive selling point, Snap appears convinced of its necessity.
According to Snap, the decision stems from user feedback and a commitment to innovation based on user needs. The company aims to provide greater flexibility and control over conversations, catering to the preferences of its community.
Currently undergoing trials in select markets, the new feature empowers users to adjust retention settings on a conversation-by-conversation basis. Flexibility remains paramount, with participants able to modify settings within chats and receive in-chat notifications to ensure transparency.
Snapchat underscores that the default auto-delete feature will persist, reinforcing its design philosophy centered on ephemerality. However, with the app gaining traction as a primary messaging platform, the option offers users a means to preserve longer chat histories.
The update marks a pivotal moment for Snapchat, renowned for its disappearing message premise, especially popular among younger demographics. Retaining this focus has been pivotal to Snapchat’s identity, but the shift suggests a broader strategy aimed at diversifying its user base.
This strategy may appeal particularly to older demographics, potentially extending Snapchat’s relevance as users age. By emulating features of conventional messaging platforms, Snapchat seeks to enhance its appeal and broaden its reach.
Yet, the introduction of message retention poses questions about Snapchat’s uniqueness. While addressing user demands, the risk of diluting Snapchat’s distinctiveness looms large.
As Snapchat ventures into uncharted territory, the outcome of this experiment remains uncertain. Will message retention propel Snapchat to new heights, or will it compromise the platform’s uniqueness?
Only time will tell.
SOCIAL
Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach
While it is tempting to try to appeal to a broad audience, the founder of alcohol-free coaching service Just the Tonic, Sandra Parker, believes the best thing you can do for your business is focus on your niche. Here’s how she did just that.
When running a business, reaching out to as many clients as possible can be tempting. But it also risks making your marketing “too generic,” warns Sandra Parker, the founder of Just The Tonic Coaching.
“From the very start of my business, I knew exactly who I could help and who I couldn’t,” Parker told My Biggest Lessons.
Parker struggled with alcohol dependence as a young professional. Today, her business targets high-achieving individuals who face challenges similar to those she had early in her career.
“I understand their frustrations, I understand their fears, and I understand their coping mechanisms and the stories they’re telling themselves,” Parker said. “Because of that, I’m able to market very effectively, to speak in a language that they understand, and am able to reach them.”Â
“I believe that it’s really important that you know exactly who your customer or your client is, and you target them, and you resist the temptation to make your marketing too generic to try and reach everyone,” she explained.
“If you speak specifically to your target clients, you will reach them, and I believe that’s the way that you’re going to be more successful.
Watch the video for more of Sandra Parker’s biggest lessons.
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