LinkedIn has become one of the largest networking and B2B marketing social media platforms. There are over 774 million members in 200 different countries around the world. What used to be a platform to post your resume in search of a job has now developed into something much more significant. 

While it’s still a great place to search for work, it’s also great for people to reach potential new customers and network beyond their personal communities.

One industry that can really benefit from the use of LinkedIn is real estate. But unfortunately, many people don’t know the true power this social channel has for their network or business.

Here’s how you can use LinkedIn to optimize your network, your authority as an expert in the field, and even reach new potential clients.

A lot of people who are interested in buying or selling their homes are going to do their research. They’ll do a quick internet search for their potential real estate agent to learn about their credentials, reviews, and knowledge in the industry. The good news is that you’re more than likely one step ahead of the game.

You’re probably already spending your days researching industry trends and reading the latest in residential and commercial real estate news. But are you sharing that information with your network? 

LinkedIn is a place where people are searching for relevant industry news. Sharing what you are already reading is a great way to start a conversation and showcase yourself as someone who is staying current with real estate trends.

While LinkedIn has been known primarily for recruiting, it also has its benefits when it comes to networking. The reality is, there are certain services that everyone needs. A real estate agent is one of those. At some point, someone is going to buy or sell a home. As business owners, some people may even be looking into commercial real estate. What better place to look than someone they’ve already connected with on a professional platform than LinkedIn?

Use your profile to network with individuals not just within your industry, but within your community. Connect with young professionals who may be skyrocketing in their careers as they share their latest promotion or about their new job in a city you might market yourself in as an agent. What better way to celebrate a promotion than by taking the next step into adulthood by buying a house?

LinkedIn groups are an incredible way to start networking with like-minded people. The idea is to start a conversation with people who might be in the market to buy a new home, rather than sell them on your services.

Send personalized messages to these people in the group. Remember, it’s not about getting a sale. It’s about creating a community and building trust within that community. If people think they are trying to be sold something, they’ll be less likely to want to work with you in the future. 

Use LinkedIn groups as a way to create human connections and relationships with these individuals for long-lasting partnerships.

When was the last time you updated your LinkedIn profile? If it’s been a while, you may want to consider doing an overhaul. LinkedIn has added several new features over the last year that can allow your profile to stand out from your competitors. Besides, your profile as a standalone portfolio of the homes and commercial real estate you have sold can do wonders for your business. So why not take some time to update your profile and let it do some of the work for you?

You don’t have to be on every social media platform to gather new leads as a real estate agent. However, LinkedIn is one platform you won’t want to slack on. It could potentially be one of your greatest lead-generating assets.