Introduction
LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers — it’s one of the most powerful B2B lead generation tools in the world, especially for exporters and consultants. But most businesses don’t know how to use it strategically.
This article shows you exactly how to use LinkedIn to find serious B2B leads in your target country, start meaningful conversations, and open new business opportunities — without paid ads or expensive automation tools.
1. Start with a Professional, Sharp Profile
Before doing anything, make sure your own profile is:
- Clean, professional photo (avoid logos as profile images)
- Headline = what you do + who you help
- Clear about your company, sector, and services
- Includes your website and contact info
🎯 Example:
Headline: Helping modular builders in the UK source certified façade materials with flexible delivery and payment options.
2. Use LinkedIn’s Advanced Search Function
Here’s how to find decision-makers in a specific country:
- In the search bar, type a relevant keyword (e.g., “procurement manager”, “import manager”, “façade materials buyer”)
- Click “People”
- Click “All filters”
- Set the location (e.g., “United Kingdom” or “Netherlands”)
- Add industry if needed (e.g., “Construction” or “Building Materials”)
- Press search — and you’ll see a filtered list of potential leads
3. Analyze Who Your Competitors Are Connected With
Visit your competitors’ or manufacturers’ profiles and:
- Check “People also viewed”
- See “Connections” (if public)
- Review post likes and comments — often filled with leads
- Note down company names or individuals for direct outreach
This is a powerful way to uncover leads you wouldn’t find in Google.
4. Connect With a Clear, Non-Salesy Message
When you send a connection request, don’t sell. Simply show relevance.
✅ Example message:
Hi [Name], I came across your profile while researching façade material buyers in the UK. I help companies optimize costs by sourcing certified panels from Turkey. Thought it would be valuable to connect.
You’re not pitching — you’re starting a conversation.
5. Observe What They Engage With
Once connected:
- See what they post, like, and comment on
- Engage occasionally — like, comment, or react to build familiarity
- Take notes on company updates, expansion news, or product launches
This gives you insight into when and how to reach out.
6. Use LinkedIn to Find Similar Companies
After visiting a lead’s company page:
- Scroll down to “People also viewed” or “Similar companies”
- These are often in the same sector, location, or supply chain
- Create a prospect list of 20–50 companies per target country
7. Turn Your Profile Into a Mini Landing Page
Use your featured section to pin:
- Your company website
- Your latest blog post or article
- A downloadable PDF/catalog
- A testimonial or case study
Let your profile sell on your behalf even when you’re not messaging anyone.
8. Post Weekly Content (Even If Just 3 Sentences)
To stay visible:
- Share insights from your business
- Comment on industry trends
- Post real experiences or short tips
- Tag companies (without overdoing it)
It builds credibility. It keeps your name in people’s feed. And it makes your messages more likely to be accepted and answered.
Conclusion: LinkedIn Is the Most Underrated Export Tool You Already Have
You don’t need to wait for trade fairs, or send cold emails into black holes.
Your next client may already be on LinkedIn — you just need to find them, engage them, and speak their language.
No ads. No automation. Just human connection — at scale.
Authored by Smartcon Int’l. Trade & Marketing Ltd. on 08.05.2025. All rights reserved.