Linked-in connects cosmetic scientists and marketers alike

Launched over five years ago, Linked-in was conceived as a tool to help people keep in contact with colleagues and associates they know and trust in.

The site now has over 40 million users and has expanded into a site that offers more than just a message board for business professionals.

Cosmetics specific content ​

For professionals in the cosmetics industry, Linked-in offers a number of discussion groups, in which people can share ideas, ask questions and keep up to date with the news.

For scientists one of the most targeted groups is Society of Cosmetic Chemist, which currently has 592 members from the industry, with the majority being active in formulation and research.

The group contains three main sections: news, discussions and jobs. Group members have the opportunity to open a discussion topic, ask questions, discuss news articles, and post job vacancies.

There are a number of other groups on the site relevant to the cosmetics industry although some are more active than others.

While not cosmetics specific SupplySide and INGredients are two active groups with good membership counts that contain plenty of networking opportunities, information and news directly relevant to beauty professionals.

To become a member of a group, people have to request membership and will usually gain approval so long as their profile matches the theme of the group.

Growth and potential of social networking​

Linked-in is one of a growing band of social networking sites that has seen significant growth of late, with many marketing professionals latching on to their branding and networking potential.

To listen to an audio interview conducted by CosmeticsDesign.com on the potential of social networking in the beauty industry, please click here​.