{"id":7513,"date":"2023-12-11T02:43:46","date_gmt":"2023-12-11T02:43:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/?p=7513"},"modified":"2025-04-22T12:00:48","modified_gmt":"2025-04-22T12:00:48","slug":"how-to-use-linkedin-for-sales-prospecting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/how-to-use-linkedin-for-sales-prospecting\/","title":{"rendered":"An Effective Framework on How To Use LinkedIn for Sales Prospecting"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Clyde Beatty was the world\u2019s first celebrated lion tamer back in the 1930s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As he got into cages filled with lions and tigers, the audience thought it was his revolver that disciplined the animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In reality, it was the chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beatty discovered that when you put a chair in front of a roaring lion, it tries to focus on all four legs of the chair at once. Burdened with options, the animal happens to freeze instead of fight. (Mostly, at least.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are a salesperson getting started on how to use LinkedIn for sales prospecting, you\u2019re much like that lion facing the chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are hundreds of ways to approach this task and to do that it\u2019s often confusing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can investigate your competitors\u2019 networks. Connect with users who have interacted with your posts. Join groups. The list is endless!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most of the advice out there is more overwhelming than actionable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help you cut through the noise and make the most of this platform, we\u2019ve developed an exceptionally simple framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Everything you need to succeed with LinkedIn prospecting can be boiled down into this three-step framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Step 1: Build credibility<\/strong> with a great profile that speaks to your audience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step 2:<\/strong> Next, <strong>create visibility<\/strong> for yourself. Make it easy for the relevant people to notice you and find you<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Step 3:<\/strong> Finally, don\u2019t just wait for people to contact you. Go out there and <strong>build relationships<\/strong>. Find people who you can help with your product\/service and start a conversation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"622\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/3-step-framework-for-linkedin-sales-prospecting.webp\" alt=\"3 step framework for linkedin sales prospecting\" class=\"wp-image-7515\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/3-step-framework-for-linkedin-sales-prospecting.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/3-step-framework-for-linkedin-sales-prospecting-300x243.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/3-step-framework-for-linkedin-sales-prospecting-568x460.webp 568w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"build-credibility-with-a-standout-profile\"><strong>Build Credibility With a Standout Profile<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Send someone a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/cold-email\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cold email<\/a> and what\u2019s the first thing they are likely to do &#8211; visit your LinkedIn profile!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Schedule a call with an inbound lead &#8211; and it is likely that they will visit your profile before jumping on that call.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get introduced to a prospect via a mutual acquaintance. And they will likely look you up on LinkedIn before responding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It turns out, that almost everyone you do business with will visit your LinkedIn page. This presents a golden opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An opportunity where you have the undivided attention of your prospect for 30 seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think about this for a moment. At no other point in your relationship are you likely to get such an opportunity again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An opportunity to wow your prospect before they even speak to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To establish yourself as someone they want to do business with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Utilize this opportunity to create a memorable impression &#8211; convey who you are as a person, your mission, your motivation behind work, and your credentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is what you need to do to use your profile to establish credibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ef89fc392fa9be2dccfdf6d3d7135af1\" id=\"1-1-start-with-a-thoughtful-headline\">1. Start With a Thoughtful Headline<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If there\u2019s one sentence on your profile that you want to be really thoughtful about, it is probably this &#8211; the headline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The reason is simple: the headline appears everywhere &#8211; in the news feed, search results, LinkedIn inbox, \u201cRecommended to connect with\u201d feature, \u201cWho has viewed my profile\u201d feature, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A good headline conveys what is it that you can do for the reader in 6- 8 words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"721\" height=\"368\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Thoughtful-headline-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"thoughtful headline linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7516\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Thoughtful-headline-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 721w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Thoughtful-headline-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x153.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 721px) 100vw, 721px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c0b24ffef0b32cadf14472c1a8bbc665\" id=\"2-2-add-a-professional-photograph\">2. Add a Professional Photograph<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Display pictures remove anonymity and add a human touch to what could otherwise be a cold exchange. It helps your viewers know that they\u2019re dealing with a real person and they are more likely to engage in a conversation with a friendly face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, just adding a professional picture to your profile <a href=\"https:\/\/business.linkedin.com\/sales-solutions\/blog\/1\/10-social-selling-activities-statistically-proven-to-get-results\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">increase its number of views by 11%.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Put a recent, up-to-date professional-looking photograph where you come across as friendly and approachable. The key here is to make a prospective buyer feel confident about connecting with you and look forward to conversing with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s an example &#8211;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"719\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/linkedin-profile-with-a-good-profile-picture-.webp\" alt=\"linkedin profile with a good profile picture \" class=\"wp-image-7517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/linkedin-profile-with-a-good-profile-picture-.webp 719w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/linkedin-profile-with-a-good-profile-picture--300x182.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f560d18a9cf147f06f852cb95e4da41a\" id=\"3-3-use-the-background-image-to-your-advantage\">3. Use the Background Image to Your Advantage<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The background image is a fairly large and valuable piece of real estate in the profile that most people do not take advantage of. The dimensions of the image make it attractive to load a large wide-angle picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a great place to show off the accomplished side of you. If you have pictures from speaking engagements or conferences, this is a great place to showcase those.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even better, choose a picture that also has your company logo prominently displayed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example where Jill Konrath uses one of her speaking engagement photographs as a background picture.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"639\" height=\"394\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Background-Picture-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"background picture linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7518\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Background-Picture-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 639w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Background-Picture-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x185.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 639px) 100vw, 639px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0785d61e730621d269a3634911866eed\" id=\"4-4-craft-a-memorable-summary\">4. Craft a Memorable Summary<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The summary is the text that appears immediately below the connect\/message button.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, LinkedIn shows a 300-character snippet &#8211; which can be expanded on clicking. It is important that your first 1-2 sentences in the summary draw attention and invite the user to read more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is an example of the summary of Tom Stearns, Founder of Tom Stearns Consulting &#8211;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"701\" height=\"445\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-Summary-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"linkedIn summary linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7519\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-Summary-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 701w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-Summary-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x190.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 701px) 100vw, 701px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A summary is a great place to tell a story about your work life and spark interest in the reader. This is also a good place to talk about your mission statement\/ goals\/ objectives etc. Something that appeals to emotion &#8211; because the rest of your Linkedin profile is more factual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Convey the motivation behind your work, the results you\u2019ve driven, the pain points you\u2019ve solved, and your noteworthy accomplishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, remember to add a few specific keywords your buyers might search for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, the last few lines of the summary should describe why and how should a prospect connect with you. As a salesperson you want to be approachable &#8211; and yet not appear too eager. It is a fine balance to strike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3a901d4e8765590ed4719e6a4e2cf809\" id=\"5-5-upload-some-appealing-media\">5. Upload Some Appealing Media<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Relevant, interesting media can stand as testimonials to your work and boost trust among your audience. There\u2019s a whole bunch of options here &#8211; videos, blog posts, PDFs, presentations &#8211; choose your best work and add them up!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of some media added in the summary section.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"607\" height=\"116\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Linkedin-profile-with-some-media-.webp\" alt=\"linkedin profile with some media \" class=\"wp-image-7520\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Linkedin-profile-with-some-media-.webp 607w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Linkedin-profile-with-some-media--300x57.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 607px) 100vw, 607px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ffbda1b4ddb106ac126cb2ecaaaf16a0\" id=\"6-6-put-up-a-crisp-experience-section\">6. Put up a Crisp Experience Section<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have ever written a resume, you know how this section works. Go ahead and be sure to fill it up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin each work experience in your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thevectorimpact.com\/resume-outline\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.thevectorimpact.com\/resume-outline\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">resume outline<\/a> with a small introduction about the organization and then a brief about your work there. Ideally, make a small bulletin list of 3-4 points giving details of your role under each position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fa4b848c4e0d3da65c415ba668c9ec50\" id=\"7-7-have-a-few-good-recommendations\">7. Have a Few Good Recommendations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A recommendation is an external validation of your expertise. A positive recommendation increases the credibility of your profile. It\u2019s a great way to draw attention to the skills and experiences you possess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always ask for recommendations from the people who know you well &#8211; who can best speak about your aptitude in a particular domain or shed some light on your accomplishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A recommendation like this can do wonders for you!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"758\" height=\"330\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Impressive-Recommendations-LinkedIn-for-B2B-sales.webp\" alt=\"impressive recommendations linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7521\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Impressive-Recommendations-LinkedIn-for-B2B-sales.webp 758w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Impressive-Recommendations-LinkedIn-for-B2B-sales-300x131.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Impressive-Recommendations-LinkedIn-for-B2B-sales-755x329.webp 755w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 758px) 100vw, 758px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-629b377af6ce296b1625d162528e62d4\" id=\"8-8-build-an-initial-network\">8. Build an Initial Network<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you already have 150-200+ connections, feel free to skip this point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The number of connections you possess on LinkedIn also reflects the credibility of your profile. Nothing screams \u201cnewbie\u201d than a profile with 20-30 connections. Rather, you want to be able to show off your network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by connecting with everyone you know &#8211; your friends, classmates, alumni, colleagues etc. Your existing network is a good starting point to make more important and relevant connections as you progress in your LinkedIn journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"build-visibility\"><strong>Build Visibility<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your buyers are all on LinkedIn. They consume content, post updates, and make connections. If you can actively show up in their daily feed, and talk about the problems they face, they are bound to take notice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Elevate your visibility and you make it easier to for people who need your help to find you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If done in a focused, systematic manner, this can keep you stay top of your prospects\u2019 minds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>LinkedIn is a great platform to achieve all of this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are a few linkedin prospecting tips to leverage LinkedIn in creating more visibility for yourself &#8211;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-1-join-and-stay-active-on-relevant-groups\">1. Join and Stay Active on Relevant Groups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are over 2 million groups on LinkedIn, making it a great place to network with potential prospects. Join groups that are relevant to your industry\/ prospects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can join up to 50 groups on LinkedIn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feeling adventurous? You can even start your own group!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mere membership in groups is not going to make people notice you unless you engage with them on a regular basis. Participate in discussions, lend your expertise to benefit the conversation and display your interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check into groups at least 2-3 times a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Discuss the problems facing your buyers and offer possible solutions &#8211; without necessarily directly pitching your product. Your value addition will be rewarded with people asking for help, advice or maybe even your service as well!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more you project yourself out there, the higher will be the number of connections reaching out to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-2-share-content\">2. Share Content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>\u201cContent is the currency of the modern marketer and the social salesperson\u201d <\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &#8211; Jill Rowley, Social selling expert<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sharing content that is relevant to your industry is a great way to stay visible among prospects and one of the linkedin prospecting best practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by sharing the content produced by your company &#8211; it could be blog posts, product demos, company collateral, whitepapers, ebooks, videos etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Add industry-relevant content from research papers, industry experts, news etc into the mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember it is not just about dropping links in your feed or in groups, it is also seeding them with your point of view &#8211; so that you can get a conversation started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-3-start-conversations\">3. Start Conversations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Find relevant and interesting developments in your industry and use them to start conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can write a short note\/ a few sentences sharing your opinion about recent trends, changes, technology or ideas. Tag others who may be interested in chipping in with their comments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The idea is to keep you on the top of mind with contacts who could be your prospective clients. Here\u2019s an example &#8211;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"501\" height=\"277\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-Starting-conversations.webp\" alt=\"linkedIn for b2b sales starting conversations\" class=\"wp-image-7522\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-Starting-conversations.webp 501w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-Starting-conversations-300x166.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 501px) 100vw, 501px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-4-publish-content\">4. Publish Content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From time to time, publish some original content &#8211; content that articulates your learnings, and expertise and can help position you as a thought leader.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"710\" height=\"819\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Image-of-Donald-C-Kellys-LinkedIn-post.webp\" alt=\"image of donald c kelly's linkedIn post\" class=\"wp-image-7523\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Image-of-Donald-C-Kellys-LinkedIn-post.webp 710w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Image-of-Donald-C-Kellys-LinkedIn-post-260x300.webp 260w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Image-of-Donald-C-Kellys-LinkedIn-post-399x460.webp 399w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 710px) 100vw, 710px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Publishing fresh, novel content nurtures your audience, provides them value and establishes you as a thought leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-5-post-videos\">5. Post Videos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Videos are quickly becoming a popular choice of content in LinkedIn &#8211; and the engagement\/ reach in video posts are much higher compared to plain text posts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"451\" height=\"676\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/videos-to-improve-visibilibility.webp\" alt=\"adding videos to build visibility for sales prospecting \" class=\"wp-image-14933\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/videos-to-improve-visibilibility.webp 451w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/videos-to-improve-visibilibility-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/videos-to-improve-visibilibility-307x460.webp 307w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, when it comes to creating visibility, the key is to be consistent, to appear regularly in your prospect\u2019s feed and stay top of mind when they need you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"build-relationships-strategically\"><strong>Build Relationships Strategically<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Building a great presence and creating visibility will help prospects find you. At the same you, it is important to proactively reach out to prospects with who you can help and start a conversation with them. <s> <\/s><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how you can go about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16-1-search-for-prospects\">1. Search for Prospects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Have a clear definition of your buyer persona or Ideal customer profile (ICP) before you start searching for prospects. This usually comprises of your target niche, company type, number of employees in it etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c5d18656caf2e4cc4be2709b2255aa15\" id=\"17-a-how-to-use-linkedin-sales-navigator-for-prospecting\">a) How To Use LinkedIn Sales Navigator for Prospecting<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re serious about generating leads from LinkedIn, Sales Navigator can be a great tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tailor-made especially for sales professionals, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/how-to-use-linkedin-sales-navigator\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/blog.klenty.com\/how-to-use-linkedin-sales-navigator\/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=how-to-use-linkedin-for-sales-prospecting\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LinkedIn Sales Navigator<\/a> helps you narrow down your search, engage with prospects and increase your chances of conversion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It allows you to focus on the right kind of prospects by giving valuable insights and information about the decision-makers. This way, you can find the right prospects, personalize your approach and build trusted relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some tips to get the most of your Sales Navigator account:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Set up your Sales preferences<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This helps narrow down your approach based on geography, industry, company size and function. Based on this preference, Sales Navigator will show you relevant lead recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also view these preferences whenever you visit a prospect\u2019s profile.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"953\" height=\"343\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Sales-Preferences-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigato-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"sales preferences  linkedIn sales navigator  linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Sales-Preferences-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigato-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 953w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Sales-Preferences-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigato-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x108.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Sales-Preferences-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigato-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-768x276.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Sales-Preferences-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigato-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-755x272.webp 755w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 953px) 100vw, 953px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Advanced Search<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where all the magic happens! Advanced search allows you to apply over 20 filters including keywords, titles, seniority level, groups, etc., making it hyper-focused in your list building.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"488\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Advanced-Lead-Searc-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"advanced lead search  linkedIn sales navigator linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Advanced-Lead-Searc-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 602w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Advanced-Lead-Searc-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x243.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Advanced-Lead-Searc-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-567x460.webp 567w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lead suggestions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Sales Navigator helps by combining your sales preferences, search history, and profile interaction data to offer tailor-made lead recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find these recommendations by clicking on the \u201cDiscover\u201d link in the main navigation menu on the top of the page and selecting \u201cRecommended leads\u201d from the drop-down menu that appears.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"636\" height=\"336\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Recommended-Leads-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"recommended leads  linkedIn sales navigator  linkedIn for b2b sales\" class=\"wp-image-7527\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Recommended-Leads-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 636w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Recommended-Leads-LinkedIn-Sales-Navigator-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x158.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 636px) 100vw, 636px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>InMail messages and Insights<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>LinkedIn InMail messages allow you to message prospects who aren\u2019t your first-degree connections, allowing you to directly engage with your prospects.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"709\" height=\"390\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-InMail-messages-for-sales-prospecting-.webp\" alt=\"linkedIn inmail messages for sales prospecting \" class=\"wp-image-7528\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-InMail-messages-for-sales-prospecting-.webp 709w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/LinkedIn-InMail-messages-for-sales-prospecting--300x165.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 709px) 100vw, 709px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>LinkedIn insights give you inputs about your leads activities &#8211; if they\u2019ve received funding, changed jobs, held events etc &#8211; saving you from the tedious task of manually tracking their activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You also get to see who\u2019s viewed your profile in the last 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Infact, <a href=\"https:\/\/linkport.klenty.com\/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=how-to-use-linkedin-sales-navigator\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LinkPort<\/a> is a free 1-click tool that works with both LinkedIn and Sales Navigator to import contacts directly from LinkedIn into your CRM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"paddingBlock20 has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f7f7fb\"><strong>Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/linkedin-message-templates-for-sales\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/blog.klenty.com\/linkedin-message-templates-for-sales\/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=how-to-use-linkedin-for-sales-prospecting\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Take a look at the best 17 LinkedIn Sales Message Templates for Different Sales Scenarios<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-34bd161dd3bd7a3d61eac3bacc7f6a27\" id=\"18-b-boolean-google-search-for-prospecting-\">b) Boolean Google Search for Prospecting <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Boolean Google search is a free alternative to Sales Navigator that helps in finding relevant LinkedIn profiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next time you use Google to search for leads, try using Boolean operators such as AND, OR, NOT, and quotation marks.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"708\" height=\"458\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Boolean-Google-Search-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp\" alt=\"Boolean Google Search | LinkedIn for B2B Sales\" class=\"wp-image-7529\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Boolean-Google-Search-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales.webp 708w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Boolean-Google-Search-LinkedIn-for-B2B-Sales-300x194.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 708px) 100vw, 708px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"19-2-approaching-the-decision-makers\">2. Approaching the Decision-Makers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have a list of your ideal prospects ready, the next step is to start approaching them. There is really only one advice to bear in mind while approaching prospects:<strong> be authentic.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest mistakes reps make on LinkedIn is that they get into pitching too quickly.<s> <\/s><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key here is to keep your pace gradual and slow like you\u2019re approaching someone for a date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick list of dos and don\u2019ts you might want to check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Personalize your approach<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t make the blunder of sending blank connection requests. Instead, take some time out to research the prospect and send a short note on why you\u2019d like to connect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve sent a personalized connection request, they are likely to come visiting and this is where your optimized profile works its magic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Send a thank you!<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once a prospect has accepted your connection request, send a casual thank you message. You can send an open-ended offer to help them in your area of expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At this point, you can engage with some of the prospect\u2019s content, as it is a nice way to build relationships &#8211; comment on posts, start a discussion, dish out genuine compliments &#8211; anything!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Provide value<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow up with the prospect by sending something of value &#8211; the idea is to help the prospect in some way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideally, choose an article that serves both &#8211;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Adds value to the prospect<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Positions your product that you\u2019re selling<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By giving away something that\u2019s important to your prospect, you build trust and position yourself positively in the prospect\u2019s mind &#8211; leading to a conversation!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Start a conversation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of LinkedIn is not to close the deal, but to get the prospect talking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use LinkedIn to generate enough interest among your prospects and intrigue them to move the conversation from LinkedIn to a call or an email conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And the easiest way to do that is to show interest &#8211; ask questions about your prospect\u2019s business goals, interests, posts, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eventually, offer to help &#8211; talk about how your product\/service could help them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As long as your prospect remains the priority in your conversation, you will always win as a salesperson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f7f7fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"paddingBlock20\"><strong>Related<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/linkedin-message-templates-for-sales\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Take a look at the best 17 LinkedIn Sales Message Templates for Different Sales Scenarios<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"linkedin-prospecting-tips--measure-your-progress-with-social-selling-index\"><strong>LinkedIn Prospecting Tips -Measure Your Progress With Social Selling Index<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Anything that gets measured gets done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>LinkedIn provides an easy metric to track how effectively you are actually using the platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The LinkedIn Social Selling Index helps you assess your social selling game<s>.<\/s> It tells you how well you\u2019ve leveraged LinkedIn into your sales process and lets you estimate the impact of your efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SSI measures your performance against four benchmarks &#8211; establishing your professional brand, finding the right people, engaging with insights, and building relationships &#8211; on a scale of 0-100.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"708\" height=\"405\" src=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Social-Selling-Index-SSI-LinkedIn-for-Sales.webp\" alt=\"social selling index linkedIn for Sales\" class=\"wp-image-7530\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Social-Selling-Index-SSI-LinkedIn-for-Sales.webp 708w, https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Social-Selling-Index-SSI-LinkedIn-for-Sales-300x172.webp 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 708px) 100vw, 708px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Every single potential buyer for your product or service is on LinkedIn &#8211; just waiting to be contacted. For salespeople, this presents a golden opportunity &#8211; to prospect better and raise their sales game to a higher level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But quite often, most salespeople only seem to scratch the surface of this platform leading to negligible results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If utilized properly, LinkedIn can be a great source to generate leads and drive more sales. All it takes is a simple and repeatable process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep your profile fresh and impressive. Create visibility for yourself. Build strategic relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And you are on your way to social selling mastery using LinkedIn!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Clyde Beatty was the world\u2019s first celebrated lion tamer back in the 1930s. As he got into cages filled with lions and tigers, the audience thought it was his revolver that disciplined the animals. In reality, it was the chair. Beatty discovered that when you put a chair in front of a roaring lion, it [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"rank_math_title":"How to use LinkedIn for Sales Prospecting [Best Practices]","rank_math_description":"Are you looking to find prospects on LinkedIn? Here is a framework that will guide you on how to use LinkedIn for sales prospecting and drive more sales.","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7513","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7513","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7513"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7513\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19952,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7513\/revisions\/19952"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7513"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7513"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.klenty.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7513"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}