THE SYSTEM
⚡Learn the system I use to build my brand and business on LinkedIn and how you can use it to do the same ⚡
Introduction
LinkedIn has become one of the most powerful platforms for professionals to connect, grow their network, and build their brand. However, many people, including myself, have struggled to use it effectively. When I started, I found myself frustrated with the lack of meaningful engagement, unclear on how to build my brand, and unsure how to maximize LinkedIn’s potential. However, through my work with Tony Robbins and John Maxwell, I eventually found a system that works exceptionally well. In this article, I'll share ten essential steps to help you nail your LinkedIn strategy so that you can scale your business and build professional connections with lasting value.
1. Identify Your Customer Avatar
One of the most crucial steps in building a brand on LinkedIn is knowing exactly who you’re talking to. You need to identify your target audience so clearly that you can imagine their face, name, and specific challenges. This helps you craft targeted, meaningful messages. Generic content won't stand out in the crowded LinkedIn space, but a personalized message will. When you know your ideal client, you can create content that resonates with them and build genuine connections.
2. Personalize Connection Requests
When sending a connection request, don’t just click "connect" and leave it at that. Send a personalized message explaining why you want to connect with that individual. Offer context—maybe you admire their work, share a common professional interest, or have mutual connections. This added step reduces skepticism and helps you stand out from the hundreds of connection requests professionals receive weekly.
3. Lead with Value
Rather than immediately pitching your product or service, start by providing something of value to your new connection. I once offered a free hard copy of John Maxwell’s book Leadership Gold as a way to introduce myself and offer meaningful value. This small but impactful gesture led to a long-term relationship and business with the CEO of a $500 million company. Leading with value builds trust, shows that you are genuine, and can help you stand out from the crowd.
4. Create Relevant, Consistent Content
Creating relevant content is the backbone of your LinkedIn presence. But beyond being relevant, you must be consistent. Many people struggle with what to post, but don’t worry about that for now; we’ll get to that when the time is right. The key is consistency—posting regularly so your audience can stay engaged with your thoughts and ideas.
5. Have a System for People to Follow You
Once you've connected with someone, give them an opportunity to follow you, such as subscribing to your newsletter or tuning in to your podcast. This approach allows potential clients or partners to see more of your work, get to know you, and feel comfortable reaching out for a conversation. Over time, as they consume your content, trust and familiarity grow.
6. Don’t Rely on Automation—Focus on Conversations
In today's world, many people want to automate everything, but building meaningful relationships requires personal interaction. You can’t automate trust. Instead, focus on having real conversations with your connections. Whether it's hopping on a call or sending personalized messages, your goal should be to learn more about the person and how you might help them. It’s not about a quick sale; it’s about building long-term business relationships.
7. Divorce Yourself from the Outcome
Not every conversation will result in immediate business. That’s okay. Focus on building relationships, not on closing every deal. Some connections might take months or even years to develop into business relationships, but the payoff can be substantial if you stay genuine and patient. Think of each conversation as an investment in future opportunities.
8. Listen Intently and Ask Great Questions
One of the most underrated skills in business is listening. By asking thoughtful questions and listening carefully to the answers, you can uncover the challenges your connections face. This not only helps you better understand how to serve them but also strengthens the relationship. As Zig Ziglar famously said, "You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."
9. Create a System for Consistency
The key to success on LinkedIn is consistency. Too many people give up after a few weeks because they don’t see immediate results. To avoid this pitfall, create a system that allows you to engage with your network consistently, post valuable content, and follow up with your connections. This system should be repeatable, measurable, and scalable.
10. Put Your Prospecting Efforts on Autopilot
Conversing with your new and existing connections is the best use of your time. Hire someone else to do the legwork—such as researching potential connections and sending out connection requests—so that you can focus your time and energy on having meaningful conversations with the people who respond positively. This allows you to scale your efforts without sacrificing the personal touch that makes you stand out. I’m happy to take you behind the scenes so you can see how it works in real time.
Conclusion
Building a brand and growing your business on LinkedIn takes time, patience, and intentionality. By following these 10 steps—identifying your audience, personalizing your outreach, leading with value, creating consistent content, and focusing on conversations—you can create a powerful LinkedIn strategy that helps you build lasting relationships and scale your business. Remember, the goal is to become a trusted professional in your field, not just another connection on someone's list.
Need Some Help Getting Started?
If you'd like me to walk you through the process step by step, please book a call with me here: https://www.billstorm.com/cal or e-mail me at [email protected].
Bill Storm
“Where attention goes, energy flows, and results always show!”
THERE ARE 3 PARTS TO MY SYSTEM
⚡Content Creation \ Lead Generation \Monetization ⚡
PART 1: CONTENT CREATION
Lesson 1: Who's Your Who?
You have to nail it before you can scale it!
Lesson 2: Step by Step Content Creation
It's as easy as 1,2,3!
Lesson 3: The Tools I Use
These tools make it easy to publish your content, even if you're technologically challenged like me!
Lesson 4: Creating a Podcast Episode
No editing involved. If I can do it, so can you!
PART 2: LEAD GENERATION
The Big Domino- How to pack your calendar with people eager to business with you. Without this, your business is dead in the water. Please book a call so I can show you how it works in real time.
PART 3: MONETIZATION
What to sell and how much to charge to achieve your income goals. Please book a call to discuss, as this is different for everyone.
