Professional networking has always been an integral part of marketing, but social media has revolutionized the way it functions. Where before, businesses would create social events purely for networking opportunities, or people would attend expensive trade shows and continuing education classes to network with others in the industry, now all of that can be accomplished online in just minutes. LinkedIn is a social media networking site dedicated to professionals. With LinkedIn, you get the opportunity to add people you know into your network. You then get the opportunity to enjoy cross referrals and access to expert help, along with a growing network of contacts to help market all kinds of business to business services.

LinkedIn is the best of the social media websites for business to business sales. Contract workers and service providers have had incredible success using LinkedIn as a marketing platform. Below, are some tips to get started building a quality network.

1. Update your profile. An updated business profile is absolutely mandatory for those seeking to market on LinkedIn. Make sure to update your profile anytime you have changes in your professional life. When you send out notifications to your network, it is important to have an updated profile so that when they check, they see that the information in your notice and the information on your profile match.

2. Connect with all of your current contacts. The larger your network, the easier it is to grow your network. Start out with your address book and send out requests to all of your current contacts. Take the time to personalize each of your introductions, and mention the details of your connection.

3. Ask for help expanding your network. Talk with your current contacts and ask them to forward your information to others. On LinkedIn, the best marketing strategy is a solid service record. Your current contacts will be able to vouch for your skills and service, giving you a leg up on getting new contacts.

4. Keep your communications concise and professional. Because LinkedIn is geared toward working professionals, it is crucial that you maintain that tone in all of your communications. Avoid bulk mail, and target your communications specifically to the individual. Make sure that you know what you want, so you can communicate it clearly. People in business are very familiar with the idea of reciprocal favors. Often simply making the ask is enough to get the help you need.

5. Put your reputation first. When asking for and performing favors, it is important to keep your reputation in mind. In business, your reputation is a commodity that is worth everything, and once lost it can be impossible to regain. Do not send on frivolous emails, and never send out spam. Provide excellent service to every customer, and enjoy the benefits of a sterling business reputation.

LinkedIn is a great forum for specific types of marketing. It is not the best for direct selling to the general public, but for business to business services and cross industry referrals, it can not be beat.