LinkedIn ProFinder is a new professional services marketplace (similar to Upwork.com or Fiverr.com) that LinkedIn is piloting across the U.S. Its goal is to match buyers’ needs with quality freelance or independent professionals remotely or even in a local area if requested.

LinkedIn’s goal is to get all proposal requesters up to five responses from qualified, local professionals within 24 business hours of a request being submitted. Currently, LinkedIn members from any valid U.S. zip code can file a request for a service.

Currently there are 13 services that are being offered by LinkedIn, and when you APPLY the ones that best match your profile will be selected for you by the ProFinder team.

1. Design

1. Writing and Editing
2. Accounting
3. Marketing
4. Legal
5. Real Estate
6. Software Development
7. IT Services
8. Business Consulting
9. Financial Services
10. Insurance
11. Photography
12. Coaching

Here is how it works:

• Get leads in your Inbox – LinkedIn members will make a request for services they need. Once LinkedIn finds a request that matches your expertise, they will send you an email to your primary email account listed on your profile.
• Respond based on the request made based on your offerings or terms – If you are interested in their request, you can respond to the member with a short proposal. They’ll also get access to your full LinkedIn profile even if they are not connected to you yet.
• Get hired – If your offer fits the member’s needs, they’ll reach out and start a conversation.

Initially I have noticed that there isn’t enough information in the requests to actually come back with an offer, but the system does allow you to communicate back and forth first. Be careful not to propose too soon, this can be a deal killer right off the bat. I am confident that as the platform grows, the LinkedIn Pros will be able to offer specific services and packages that buyers can purchase as well as the ability to submit a more comprehensive RFP.

Once you have been accepted into the LinkedIn ProFinder program, your profile will be highlighted quite differently then your traditional profile. Although your profile sections are pulled directly, the new platform highlights your profile photo, headline, summary, recommendations and long-form posts. It has never been more important that these sections are focused on what your buyers’ care about rather than you, your passion and your mission.

I believe this is a game changer for LinkedIn offerings; your profile can truly be a lead magnet once the program takes off.

APPLY FOR LINKEDIN PROFINDER NOW

If you are excited about being part of LinkedIn ProFinder but your profile is just not ready, let’s chat. I am confident that even if we don’t work together I will offer some powerful profile advice that can have a significant impact on your proposal acceptance rate.

Ready to schedule your makeover now? Pick a time that works best for you at Http://LinkedInSession.com.