Using LinkedIn Groups for Social Selling

LinkedIn Groups can be extremely valuable tools for social selling but, I find them to be somewhat of an anomaly based on the relatively small percentage of group members (I’m guessing single digits, on average in any given group) who are actually active on this platform. Active means contributing, not merely belonging.

Certainly, for all of the great features that LinkedIn provides … they have never hesitated to remove functions that they do not feel are getting the appreciation that they deserve. Witness Signals, news feed filters, searching a connection’s connections, and Answers. Most of these former features would tend to fall under the power user category which generally equates to a low adoption rate when compared to the entire membership population.[Tweet “LinkedIn Groups can be extremely valuable tools for social selling providing that you are active”]

I have heard the rumor more than once that groups have been in danger of meeting the executioner’s axe so, will they be the next to go? Apparently not. Read the recent news from LinkedIn …

The new LinkedIn Groups

“We’ve been inspired by members like you to make Groups the best place for like-minded professionals to meet and converse. As a valued moderator, we wanted to ensure you knew about the following upcoming exciting changes first.

Simpler privacy settings. Now, there are just two types of groups. Standard Groups are findable in search and members can request to join or be invited by any existing member. Unlisted Groups are not discoverable and membership requires an invite from a manager. In both types, only group members can see the conversations.

A new mobile app. Being part of group conversations is easier than ever with a new LinkedIn Groups app for iOS. Android app coming soon.

Images and mentions. Post your images and mention other group members with just a tap.

Less email. We’ll digest the best content from all of your groups into one weekly or daily email.

Easy invites and less work. Any member of any Standard Group can invite their connections, making it easier for great groups to grow faster. Read on at Maximize Social Business ..

Bio
Twitter
YouTube
Latest Posts

Craig M. Jamieson

Managing Member at Adaptive Business Services

Craig M. Jamieson is a lifelong B2B salesperson, manager, owner, and a networking enthusiast. Adaptive Business Services provides solutions related to the sales professional. We are a Nimble CRM Solution Partner. Craig also conducts training and workshops primarily in social selling and communication skills. Craig is also the author of "The Small Business' Guide to Social CRM", now available on Amazon!