LinkedIn is on a social roll. They have announced a new feature that allows users to "follow" a company. Pretty standard stuff, but it does hold some interesting potential for businesses as a way to not only network with users, but other businesses and industries. It could prove to be a very nice way to build buzz around company happenings, industry news and more. Now that users can follow companies, expect to see an uptick in press releases, beta invites, special announcements, job postings, discounts to professional services ... you get the idea.

One of the advantages of LinkedIn is its focus on business. Meaning, you don't have to worry about "intruding" on users as you might with Facebook or Twitter. People are there for buisness and news, so it becomes entirely appropriate to act that way instead of worrying about the best way to "join the conversation."

It's another good step forward LinkedIn. Read this previous post about other recent developments and how LinkedIn is appealing to businesses.