Social networking platform LinkedIn has succeeded in its efforts to become the preferred spot for professionals and businesses to share experiences and work-related issues. LinkedIn is now looking to enhance its impact on small businesses by launching an Internet-based forum, called SUCCEED: Small Business Network.
The platform is a joint venture from the social networking site and Internet retailer Staples Inc and will allow small businesses access to professional content, advice and connections that can build and support business communities, LinkedIn said.
Small businesses often feel a lack of backup and professional communication and this is where the new forum comes in. LinkedIn believes that it will facilitate sharing of best practices and success stories and will provide an opportunity for discussions of important matters about small business.
The platform will also have weekly polls and will provide the profiles of experts in various industry segments that small business professionals might find useful to contact. Other benefits for users include targeted events, incentive awards and spotlight Q&As. The content will be managed and monitored by dedicated editorial staff at LinkedIn.
According to Jonathan Lister, LinkedIn´s North American sales and marketing solutions vice president, the partnership with Staples has resulted in a brand new environment that would create valuable content for small business and professionals working in such companies. The aim is to help businesses increase their productivity and efficiency within a relevant digital and social context, he added.