After nearly 20 years on the market, LinkedIn is still a bit of an enigma often buried at the bottom of a marketer’s toolbox. However, at Builder Designs we are seeing big benefits for homebuilders that buy into the platform.

It is unlikely that LinkedIn will directly sell homes for you because it does not have the traffic or the push for conversions that other social media provide. It does create a valuable space for business-to-business connections though that can build your brand and foster relationships that lead to sales opportunities in the future.

How do you make LinkedIn work for you? 

Here are three tips from our social media experts to help you optimize your account and your connections to build your business moving forward:

Create a cohesive profile

Since LinkedIn still largely functions as a social networking platform, elements like your profile photo, cover photo, tagline, descriptions and general appearance should match your other profiles. Cohesion here adds authority and authenticity. 

One of the big ways LinkedIn differs from Facebook or Instagram is the ability to dive deeper into what makes your business unique. Take advantage of the “Specialties” section with terms like “homebuilding” “custom homebuilding” and “build on your lot” that highlight specific services you offer. 

Start engaging with your network

Now that you’re optimized for business, it’s time to start utilizing LinkedIn for its purest purpose: networking. This is a great way to strengthen your bond with existing connections and find new ones within the community that may mutually benefit from a future partnership. 

Start with your local home builders association or chamber of commerce to find leadership and other members. Then take some time looking through groups that fit your interests by searching by location or keyword. 

Once you’ve established your new network, make sure to engage. Give them a thumbs up on posts, comment when appropriate and make sure to respond to messages as people start to reach out to you. Monitor your posts too and keep the conversation going if someone comments there. 

Add LinkedIn to your regular posting schedule

No one wants to interact with a silent account, so give your followers something to see. Showcase your successes with awards won or recognitions received. Give followers a glimpse into your day-to-day with a team picture from a spirit day celebrating the Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs or an upcoming holiday. And share blogs too as you go to help drive traffic back to the website. Keep your posts positive and professional. You want other businesses to see you as an authority in your industry and a reliable local partner.

LinkedIn does not need the daily attention that Facebook or Instagram might, but a consistent presence will help build your account especially in the beginning. We suggest posting at least once a week. 

To learn more about how homebuilders across the country are leveraging LinkedIn or get advice on your own profile, call (913) 393-3367. Give Builder Designs a follow too. We follow back.