LinkedIn is the largest professional network in the world. Over 564 million people have accounts on the site, and more are joining every day. By now you know that you need to be on LinkedIn. If you’ve been in the business world for a while, it’s something you have heard about, probably so often that you hardly react to it anymore. Roughly only a quarter of these members log in regularly, but why? What is the real value of LinkedIn?

1. Your LinkedIn Profile Helps Build Trust:

Jeremy Schifeling, Founder and CEO at Break into Tech, explains this idea: “In the same way that an Uber or Lyft gives you verification about the person who is going to pick you up in the car, you want to know who you’re going to hire or do business with or partner with in a professional context.” Building trust is very important to everyone, from full-time workers, freelancers, and small business owners alike.

2. Gain Website Traffic and Leads

LinkedIn is more effective than any other social media platform in generating website traffic. LinkedIn is responsible for 64% of all visits from social media to corporate websites.

3. Find Talented Employees:

LinkedIn has invested greatly in improving their Talent Solutions. From a simple job posting to complete turnkey recruitment the platform is an affordable way to source candidates for any job openings you have.

4. Build Strong Relationships and Keep an Eye on your Prospects and Clients:

Did you meet someone at a business after hours or industry event? It’s a great idea to connect with them on LinkedIn afterwards. It helps you get to know each other before that first meeting.

5. Raise Exposure for Your Business:

Creating a LinkedIn page for your business allows people to find and follow your brand. By doing so they will receive any updates you post on your company page. Updates could include press releases, new products, promotional offers or information about current vacancies.

6. Get News for your Specific Industry:

LinkedIn has become a lot more than a social networking site. They have many types of industry news that you can follow.

I hope this article opened your eyes if you are not currently on LinkedIn. Using LinkedIn will open more doors and connect you with others who have similar or exact interests. Growing your business has never been this easy.