Is Having A LinkedIn Account Worth The Time And Effort?

Social media networking is important, online exposure is essential, targeting audiences is necessary, blah, blah, blah. This is the information we read whenever we search for help on marketing our skills and becoming a success. The fact is, due to the popularity of the internet and the amount of interaction completed online, these pieces of advice are entirely correct. Fortunately, social media has now made it slightly simpler to create exposure using online profiles, but are they worth the time and effort to set up and maintain? This article will provide information on the pros and cons of having a LinkedIn account to answer this question.

Contents

What Are The Benefits Of A LinkedIn Account?
What Are The Cons Of A LinkedIn Account?
- 1. Complicated Profile Setup
- 2. Content Overload

What Are The Benefits Of A LinkedIn Account?

1. Networking Opportunities

Needless to say, one of the greatest benefits to any social media tool is the increased networking opportunities. LinkedIn is particularly unique regarding networking as it provides individuals to research potential clients using different enhanced search features. Unlike Facebook or Twitter, the searches can be refined to industry and company requirements to ensure you are contacting the most relevant individuals for your needs.

2. Professional Profile Updates

To promote your services and skills, LinkedIn requires the creation of an account profile; however, the profile presents with a high degree of professionalism as you will be required to indicate which industry you are working in. By designating an industry, individuals will have the ability to seek out and view profiles of others with relevant experience and background. It is important to maintain the profile as this will act like a virtual resume providing both customers and potential employers with the correct information to compare information to job descriptions.

3. Industry News Updates

One of the most beneficial features of LinkedIn is its news feature where content is regularly received from individuals across the LinkedIn forums and categorized into separate industries to ensure people receive relevant news updates in their fields. This is ideal as a means of keeping up to date with the latest trends, concepts, research and opportunities. Furthermore, if you wish to share information regarding new trends or thoughts, it is possible to link a blog to the different news boards.

4. Q&A Section

LinkedIn allows individuals to interact with one another in various ways, such as personal messaging, commenting, and a forum Q&A section. In this area, individuals can discuss information, ask questions and share their expertise within their field either publicly or privately. It is a popular place to engage, build a network and discuss potential opportunities.

What Are The Cons Of A LinkedIn Account?

1. Complicated Profile Setup

While all social media sites require a profile setup before you can engage with other individuals, LinkedIn is arguably one of the most complex options. This is due to the fact that LinkedIn requires a vast amount of information in order for a profile to be successful, particularly if you are looking to create a LinkedIn business websites in addition to a personal account. As a business, it is necessary to begin with a personal profile and have an Intermediate or All Star status before the business account can be opened. Unlike Facebook, LinkedIn is a professional website and networking takes time; therefore, increased status can be slow.

2. Content Overload

Despite being a highly beneficial means of sharing information, the amount of content provided can be overwhelming and can lead to a loss of interest. As a business or sole contractor, it is important the articles and information you post are relevant, useful and of a suitable amount to avoid the problem of content overload.

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Author Profile

James Blackburn

James Blackburn is the president of Canada West Internet Marketing. He has been working with computers for close to thirty years, both in programming and in repair. He has been involved in website design & SEO for over ten of those years.