COWBELL 11_5_10 Ask a Question on LinkedIn

If we follow the Cowbell E • N • G • A • G • E strategy, then Fridays are for having fun and gaining knowledge.  Today, we want you to try asking a question on LinkedIn.

One of the most powerful social media tools for business is featured within LinkedIn, and that’s the opportunity to post questions that other LinkedIn members can answer.  These questions can relate to industry-specific issues, general societal or economic trends, or best of all, specifically to your business needs.

Why ask a question on LinkedIn? It’s simple!

• It’s free market research where you can float an idea and see how others respond.

• It’s a great way to solicit feedback if you’re considering something new, like adding a new product or building a new website or trying a different software package.

• It can be an effective way to generate interest in the topic of your question and perhaps attract strategic partners, investors or prospects with whom you could connect to strengthen your LinkedIn network.

Why would anyone take the time to answer? Lots of reasons, but here are two:

• People like to help others, and by answering your question they can show off their expertise

• You’ll be able to “rate the answers” once the question closes, and if you rank one of the answers the “best answer,” the person who answered gets a badge which shows on his or her profile as a sign of expertise.

What should you ask? We suggest you start by browsing other questions that appear in your industry areas to get some ideas.  Then, keep the primary question as short and to the point as possible, and leave the “details” area for additional context that may be needed to help better focus the answers.  Remember, this is not the place to ask for introductions or to pitch your services.

Here’s a short video that shows you step by step how to ask a question on LinkedIn.   We think you’ll be amazed at the valuable feedback you get!