In 2015, LinkedIn launched its SSI or Social Selling Index.
This index was a fantastic benchmark for companies to evaluate the maturity and capability of their sales teams in a new way of selling that was becoming a new standard. This new way of selling was called social selling.
Everyone has a Social Selling Index (SSI)
Initially relevant for sales organizations, Linkedin is generating a SSI for every single Linkedin user. And the index can be used as a benchmark score for anyone willing to improve on the platform: Job seekers wanting to be more visible, employees building their professional brand, and Executives developing their thought leadership strategy.
Everyone wanting to use Linkedin more effectively and wanting to benchmark their progress over time or over others should know and track their Social Selling Index.
What is the Social Selling Index (SSI)?
The LinkedIn Social Selling Index (SSI) is a 100-point scale that helps measure the strength of your LinkedIn professional brand, activity, content engagement and network. Think of it as a digital marketing metric, similar to a website's conversion rate, that reflects your success in digital marketing initiatives as perceived by LinkedIn.
Updated daily, the SSI score gives you a snapshot of your LinkedIn effectiveness.
SSI focuses on four key areas:
Complete your profile with your audience in mind. Build your reputation by publishing meaningful posts.
Identify better prospects or customers in less time using efficient search and research processes.
Discover and share conversation-worthy updates to create and grow relationships.
Strengthen your network by finding and establishing trust with decision-makers.
Where to find your Social Selling Index (SSI)?
To check your current score, log in to LinkedIn and go to linkedin.com/sales/ssi
Otherwise, google: “Linkedin social selling index” and the first organic result should be it.
The Importance of SSI Across Different Roles
SSI's in Sales Success
Social selling has become crucial in modern sales strategies. Statistics show that 78% of social sellers outperform their peers who don't use social media, with a high SSI score correlating to increased sales opportunities and quota attainment. For sales managers, monitoring the team's SSI scores can pinpoint areas for improvement, aiding in strategy refinement.
High SSI in Recruitment
Recruiters and HR professionals find LinkedIn, with its vast user base, an invaluable resource. A high SSI score signifies an active, engaged presence on the platform, enhancing your ability to connect with potential candidates and build a reputation as a reliable recruiter.
SSI for CEOs and Leaders
According to Weber Shandwick’s The Social CEO reports, more than 80% employees prefer to work for a CEO who uses digital and social media. For CEOs, SSI provides insights CEOs and leaders influence and thought leadership within their industry.
Job Seekers: Enhancing Opportunities with SSI
For job seekers, a rising SSI score can be more important than the score itself. It reflects active engagement and networking on LinkedIn, which are critical in a job search. By focusing on improving each aspect of the SSI, job seekers can better present themselves to potential employers and recruiters.
Quick Tips to Boost Your SSI Score
- Complete your LinkedIn profile thoroughly.
- Use a professional profile picture and an engaging banner.
- Add skills and seek endorsements.
- Regularly create and share valuable content.
- View and connect with appropriate contacts while maintaining a good acceptance rate.
- Actively comment on and share others' content.
For a detailed guide on improving your SSI, refer to the article "How to Improve Your SSI?".
In conclusion, whether you're in sales, recruiting, a CEO, or a job seeker, understanding and improving your LinkedIn SSI can significantly impact your professional success on the platform.
