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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossarySocial & CreatorSocial Selling

Social & Creator

Social Selling

Using social networks, especially LinkedIn, to find, engage, and build relationships with prospects before selling.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Social selling is the use of social networks, especially LinkedIn, to find, engage and build relationships with prospects before selling. Sales professionals share useful content, comment on buyers' posts and start conversations rather than pitching cold. The approach builds credibility and familiarity, making later outreach more welcome and relevant.