Linkedin affords professionals, especially artists, to reach, meet and network with other art professionals, that in the past, under normal circumstances, you would never be able to meet and get to know. Artists on Linkedin can look for artist vacancies, meet gallery owners, corporate art reps, interior designers and many other successful art professionals that may eventually help an artist to become more successful.
Today, Linkedin has more than 350 Million registered users and it is still growing. The following are some ideas to follow in order to maximize your time and effectiveness on Linkedin:
Create or Complete Your Profile:
Your profile can make you or break you. A Linkedin profile that has a photo will be viewed 11 x more than a profile that has a blank or default image. Personally, I do not respond or take anyone seriously who has not taken the time to either complete their profile page or the time to upload a photo of themselves. Make your profile a priority and stress your artistic accomplishments and experience.
Connect with People through Groups:
Join groups that are relevant to your art business. Again, your profile will be very important as to whether or not that you will be accepted into that group. If your profile does not show an artistic background, the moderator of that art related group will probably not accept you into the group.
Become an Active Member in Your Groups:
Begin by joining in and participating in group discussions. Thoughtful answers or questions will highlight you as an informed art professional. In addition, you can also “Like” any discussions, posts, and comments.
Remember it is Networking Not Selling:
I am always turned off by a person coming into a group, who ignores the group’s mission and tries to sell you something! Who are you? I want to first get to know you, I want to learn more about you and I want to be able to trust you. Networking online is no different than networking in person.
Follow these 10 Online Networking Rules:
Remember to be a productive and steady member of any of the groups that you belong to. Help others along the way and they will help you when you need it too.