The document discusses the importance and features of LinkedIn as a professional networking tool, highlighting its relevance for individuals and organizations in economic development. It outlines the demographics of LinkedIn users and suggests strategies for enhancing a LinkedIn profile for better engagement and visibility. Additionally, it proposes ideas for structuring public and private groups to facilitate effective communication and resource sharing among members.

1. UEDA LinkedIn Group
Whatdaya wanna do?
Mark J James
ED Solutions, Inc.
2010 © ED Solutions, Inc. 1

2. Current LinkedIn Profile
•Basic Professional Group
•65 members, all active
•Decent way to drive traffic to web
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3. About LinkedIn
• “A professional network of trusted contacts.”
• 42 Million plus users worldwide, in 170 industries and 200 countries
• Execs in the Fortune 500
• 60% of incomes over $93,000
• Segments:
– Executives: 28%
– Networkers/Consultants: 30%
– Late Adopters: 22%
– Exploring options: 20%
• People with incomes of $200K + were seven times more likely to have 150
plus connections than lower income users.
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4. Where does LinkedIn “Fit In”?
• LinkedIn most closely mirrors what you do in the real world.
• You have a rolodex – so does LinkedIn.
• You email people – and can do so on LinkedIn.
• You attend meetings – and can do so via LinkedIn.
• You create committees and Groups, and can do so on LinkedIn.
• You conduct prospecting efforts – and can do so on LinkedIn.
• In short, LinkedIn is an essential tool for economic developers.
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5. Key Features of LinkedIn
• Your profile
• Your Contacts
• Your Connections
• Status updates
• Groups
• Events
• InMail Feature
• Other applications
• Advertising
(role or UEDA
to play here?)
• Mobile Access
5
2010 © ED Solutions, Inc.

6. Who is the audience for the
UEDA LinkedIn Profile?
• Members- current and prospective
– Active and associate?
• Sponsors- current and prospective
• Site selection professionals? Others in SS?
• Others? (utility management)?
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7. Here’s a Suggestion
Public Network Group Private Member’s Group
• Information on org. • Presentations
• Case Studies • Threaded discussion
• Role of utilities in ED • Job postings
• Featured member • Polls
• Sponsor listings • Sponsor Listings
• Calendar • Calendar
• Membership Application • Others?
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8. Tips
• Rewrite profile paragraph- “represent the
largest set of economic development
(keywords) experts in the private sector”
• Use extended tools
• Complete profile
• Engage members (links to the Forum
registration)
• Xobni
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9. Discussion?
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