Automation - Is It The Future?
The conversation around automation is hotly contested, but it seems if you are reading various forums and social network feeds more and more people are buying into the concept. Change is not easy for everyone, no matter how big or small it may be.
Rainmaker SOS are advocates of automation and use this within our business to create slick processes to ensure our marketing is on point, and that we are able to track and generate leads. With this in mind, we have put together our thoughts and guidance on automation and what it may mean for your business.
Why Is Automation A Key Talking Point?
The idea of automation has been a taboo subject in our opinion for a number of years. However, as more and more companies adopt this way of working, it has started to become a little more accepted.
People view automation as a negative, and especially in lead generation as it is seen as a tool to spam people with unnecessary messages. Far from the truth when done correctly!
What we have seen as widely reported by the likes of HubSpot, is that automation when used in the correct way actually aids a businesses efforts, reduces time spent on menial tasks and can help to improve success rates.
What Areas Of Your Business Can You Automate?
Automation is not limited to a specific section of your business, and with the vast amount of tools now available on the market, it is hard to find an area you cannot automate. Most organisations however will have a similar outlook, and will use technology to automate the following processes:
Lead Generation
Automating a lead generation process is a great way to ensure consistency of a campaign, but also the tracking of any leads that come through to you. Lead generation is a key component to any business, so ensuring a consistent approach will only help to generate more revenue opportunities for your business.
Sales
Following on from Lead Generation, any automation in your sales process will assist to speed up your process, and ensure leads are contacted in a timely manner. Markets and business sectors are becoming more and more competitive so time and obviously a good product will help to increase success rates.
Utilising a CRM system such as HubSpot which tracks leads and puts them into a sales pipeline. This can then be picked up by the sales team and acted upon.
Marketing
Effective marketing is time-consuming, and for a small business without a large marketing function, automation will only aid your efforts. Automating social media via a scheduling tool, or automating a newsletter to go out at a certain day and time ensures that your marketing efforts are occurring, and that you are engaging your audience.
Customer Service
Customer Service is a key part of any business, and poor service could be the difference between a new customer and not. Automating this process allows customers to be responded promptly, and also be directed to where their query or even complaint can be answered.
The Final Verdict
So is automation the future? In our opinion yes it is. As we move to a more technology driven way of working, and with competition in markets becoming ever more apparent, finding ways to create effective and quick processes is a must. Automation in the right areas of your business can do this in abundance when implemented correctly.
If you would like to find out more about Rainmaker SOS and how we can help you, then click here to find out more.
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Growing Your LinkedIn Connections
LinkedIn still stands today as the largest business-centric networking platform in the world meaning the opportunity to network and do business is still very much a possibility. The power of LinkedIn lies within your network and the connections you make, very similar to networking in a physical sense.
So with this in mind, here are some of our tips on how you can effectively grow your LinkedIn connections.
Review Your Profile
We call your profile your “shop window”. Your shop window is the first thing any new connection sees before they connect back with you, or when they find you via searches on LinkedIn. Therefore it is vital your shop window looks presentable and represents your brand.
So how can you do this? Here are some suggestions.
Banner
Make sure it is branded and gives a clear idea of what your business does.
Use A Professional Image
Profiles with a professional image stand a far better chance of having connections accepted.
Include A Bio
Your bio section is your chance to tell people about YOU. Plus it helps those who may be searching for your expertise on the LinkedIn platform.
Be Visible To Searches
Is your page visible to be found by searchers? If it isn't, then you could be missing out on more than just a connection request.
With LinkedIn’s filtering options and also use of boolean searches, it is now easier for users to find those they would like to add to their network. However, if you are not visible how can you be found?
Searchers will be looking for specific connections usually for two main reasons to sell to or request your services. Whatever it may be, both could be positive for you and your business.
Join Groups
Groups are a popular part of the LinkedIn platform, and are a perfect way for users, especially new ones to network and grow their network.
Join a group with like-minded individuals or those that are thought leaders in your sector/specialism. Be active, give your opinion and provide value with your content. This is the starting point of being able to really assert yourself in a group environment.
Be Consistent and Be Active
Being active on LinkedIn and most importantly being consistent are potentially the two areas where most users stumble. Taking time to post and think of content usually doesn't land very high on the list of thought leaders, so how do you get around it?
Two ways. Firstly, make a conscious effort to post 2-3 times a week. This is manageable for anyone. Or secondly, look at the expertise of a LinkedIn marketing expert.
Consistency and activity help with growing networks as people are more attracted to those that provide value, post content and really engage with the platform. For anyone looking to connect with you, it is simple from your profile to see how active you really are.
Utilise Your Connection Limit
Did you know the maximum amount of connections you can send each week is 100?
If you are sending up to that limit or as close too as possible then you are missing out on potential chances to grow your network.
Create some search criteria for your ideal audience, send out your 20 connections per day and be consistent with it. Include an intro message as well in your connection request, something that is authentic and personal. This will help to increase your chances of connecting.
The Final Verdict
LinkedIn is a powerful platform with the ability to help you grow your network and advance your career. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can increase your chances of success on LinkedIn. Use these tips to start growing your connections today!
If you would like to find out more about Rainmaker SOS and how we can help you, then click here to find out more.
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📞 +44 20 3011 3247
