As promised, I am continuing to write a monthly Frequently Asked Questions piece. This time I decided to chose the number one question I am asked about LinkedIn and Facebook.

LinkedIn – #1 Question Asked: How do I find and connect with my target audience?

• Go to the top, right-hand corner of the screen (where you can search for people)
• To the right of the “Search” is a magnifying glass, then a small blue button that reads “Advanced”
• Click on that button – this is where you will define parameters for your search
• If you are looking for local contacts, a good way to start is by entering your zip code and then determining how many miles, within that code, you would like to search. Example: 01234, within 25 miles
• Add keywords for your audience search. Example: small business
• You can also scroll down and select specific industries you want to target. Example: Health, Wellness & Fitness

Because LinkedIn often requires an email address of the person whom you wish to connect, I would recommend joining groups and connecting to people within that group. Here’s how: 

•       Join a group. Example:  Social Media Today
•       Once in that group, select the “Members” button. On the left-hand side, you will see a search option
•       Add a keyword and hit “Search.”  Example: accounting
•       A list of people will appear. These are people who use that keyword in his or her title or profile

Facebook – #1 Question Asked: There is way too much personal information on Facebook. Is there a way to filter my news feed to focus on certain groups of people?

Yes, create and use friend lists! Here’s how: 

Option 1: (best for those just starting out or who have 100 friends or less)

• Click on the “Friends” button
• Click on “Create a List”
• Name the list Examples: family, high school, colleagues
• Select the Friends you would like to add

Option 2: (best for users who already have a high number of friends)

• Go to the “Account” Tab
• Select “Edit Friends”
• Select “Create a List”
• Select Friends to join that list

You can create more lists based on how you want to categorize the items. You can filter your news feed and your posts/messages by using these lists.

Do you have a burning social media question? Would you like information related to a specific medium or how to use it to market your business?  Leave a comment here!