Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Sophie Dufrasnes on February 23, 2011 at 2:52pm

I need to, but have not used Linkedin. Signed up and now I defenitely need some help.

Any suggestions where I can find out how?

Permalink Reply by David McCauley on February 23, 2011 at 3:31pm

Stefani-

 

I use Linkedin primarily to develop business relationships, as you would in a networking situation.  No selling, just exchanging business hellos and getting to know others.  I have also participated in various forums, groups, and the question/answer areas.  This for the most part, has generated the most interaction with people, as I get a lot of private emails with follow up questions and actual inquiries about my services.

 

I have made more professional introductions there than other social media networks.  Most people are not likely to try to 'sell' you something, and are for the most part strictly professional or a bit more private.  On occassion, someone grabs your contact info out there and tries to solicit you in a different way, such as email, but in the end, they eventually learn that is an abuse and quit trying.

 

The 2 biggest issues out there is self promotion and connecting to be connecting. Most people that self promote on Linkedin like they do on FB and Launchpad either get deleted quickly, or lose their connections, so don't do that.  For just plain connecting, it is preferred that you get referals, but if you go it alone, try to make personal messages to every one you want to connect with, give them a reason you want to know them.  If they think you are just looking to get your connection numbers up, or feel that you are a self promoter, they will flag you, which is a bad thing.

 

hope that helps a bit.

Permalink Reply by Stefani Currer Byrd on February 23, 2011 at 3:51pm

David, 

Thank you so much, this is very helpful!