LinkedIn as a networking tool

Whilst all social media platforms have the ability to connect likeminded individuals, none are as powerful in business as LinkedIn. The digital networking giant, which turned twenty this year, has a database of over 930 million members in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Whilst this isn’t the highest audience of all the social media platforms, LinkedIn has the advantage of operating specifically for business networking. This purpose is clearly laid out in the company’s mission to connect the world’s professionals, to make them more productive and successful. So, with this free tool at your disposal – how can you best adopt social media strategies to further your business?

Amanda Little, Principal Solicitor at Amanda Little & Associates (ALA Law), has become a deft hand at utilising social networks to support her business. Having steered ALA Law, an award-winning New South Wales law firm for over ten years, she has first-hand experience using social channels to increase her networking opportunities and therefore enhance the businesses practices. To share her wisdom, Amanda has detailed how you and your law firm can apply these learnings.

The benefit of growing your business network online

Growing your business network online via social media platforms and on business platforms (such as LinkedIn etc) offers several benefits for law firm owners and solicitors. I have identified 4 key areas it greatly assists with:

Increased reach: online networking allows you to connect with individuals and businesses, regardless of geographical limitations. Tapping into a broader audience and opening new opportunities for collaboration and growth, and thus increased profits and billables.
Access to diverse professional perspectives: online networking provides access to professionals from different industries, backgrounds, and expertise, offering fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and unique insights.
Collaboration and partnerships: which enables legal professionals to identify potential collaborators, strategic partners, and suppliers.
Knowledge sharing and learning: is one of the greatest online opportunities for legal professionals. Participating in industry-specific forums, social media groups, or online communities, gaining insights, learning from others’ experiences, and staying updated with the latest trends, technologies, and innovations from the comfort of your phone or tablet – learning doesn’t get better then that!

Overall, growing your business network online will contribute to the long-term success and growth of your firm or your practice.

How do I utilise LinkedIn as an extension of my business

LinkedIn is a powerful extension for each of my businesses, including ALA LAW and The Family Law Education Network of Australia. I do this by the following:

Optimise my personal LinkedIn profile (think professional headshot, grabbing headline, beautiful and brand specific imagery).
Optimise your business profile – not just from a branding perspective but consider how you can best utilise the space to create innovation and thought leadership in your area of practice.
As part of the innovation and leadership space, use LinkedIn’s publishing platform to showcase your expertise through articles or thought leadership pieces and actively seek out and participate in relevant discussions and connect with potential clients, partners, or employees.
Finally consider advertising on LinkedIn. From sourcing work to employees and HR issues, LinkedIn in offers a comprehensive network to facilitate business.

LinkedIn serves as an invaluable extension for my businesses, and has assisted me to establish my brand, connect with professionals, and generate new opportunities for each of my businesses.

Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn, or follow ALA Law.