Social networks like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest continuously provide us with an abundance of new information and strategies to share with other fresh produce marketers, but one social network often gets slightly overlooked: LinkedIn. This social network has evolved beyond a job hunting tool yet doesn’t get the attention it deserves despite being filled with possibilities for professionals and companies alike. Now we want to give the “World’s Largest Professional Network” its time in the spotlight. Read on to discover 5 reasons why fresh produce professionals should not only be present on this social network, but regularly engaged for their professional growth.
1. To Establish A Personal Brand
What is your “brand” in the produce industry? Maintaining your LinkedIn profile can help you establish one or cement your already well-known brand. Not just a tool for job hunting, having a well-crafted and active LinkedIn presence is an important player in your career success and growth in the fresh produce industry. Use your profile to “sell” yourself, your strengths and your story to colleagues and potential business partners or relationships present on LinkedIn.
2. To Maintain Professional Relationships
LinkedIn offers the features you need to connect with colleagues from all aspects of your career journey – from alumni with your university or business connections you’ve made throughout the course of your career. Don’t be afraid to use this social network to start discussions or keep up with the careers of people you may not be Facebook friends with, but would like to stay connected with professionally. You never know when it could come in handy!
3. To Foster Professional Growth
With all of the groups and networking features offered through LinkedIn, you will have the opportunity to participate in many discussions related to your field of work in fresh produce and beyond. You’ll have the chance to learn from other professionals and develop your own talents through their input. For example, if you are a fresh produce marketer, participate in the food marketer’s discussion group or even a digital marketing discussion across all industries to glean best practices from others.
4. To Establish Authority as an Expert
While learning from other industry professionals, you can share your own thoughts and ideas in order to establish your own authority on a subject or your area of focus. Becoming an online authority is something all LinkedIn users should strive to do. Your expertise will be valued and you will set yourself up to become the go-to expert in the eyes of your industry peers whether you sell strawberries, manage food safety, oversee sustainability or manage a marketing budget.
5. To Enhance Your Google Search Results
Take a moment to google your own name. What comes up? If you have a LinkedIn profile already, it may appear in the results. LinkedIn profiles receive great SEO rankings, so the more built out and active you remain on this network, the bigger boost Google will give to your profile. It’s never a bad thing to have your professional “resume” and story ranked when your name is searched instead of those questionable photos your friend posted to Facebook of your last get together… not that ANY of you would have any of those!
Now that you know why LinkedIn is such a vital tool for your professional development at any stage of your career journey, it’s time to get to work making the most out of your profile! Download the LinkedIn Guide for Produce Professionals to learn valuable tips and strategies for establishing your presence. Click below to get it now!
