I had earlier written a blog on why LinkedIn should be used. Inc.com has published an article on the mistakes that you may be doing on LinkedIn. Please do read it.
I have two additional comments to make.
- The essence of networking is to give before you receive. Further, giving should be done way before you ask for something in return. I recently visited an alumni meet and I found 2 glaring oddities
- People of a batch cluster together, as if:
- they do not meet on facebook or face to face
- they are afraid of meeting others
- People meet only those who they think can be of help immediately
- People of a batch cluster together, as if:
I was reminded of the Stanford Marshmallow Experiment about delayed gratification. I believe that a similar correlation exists in networking. Persons who invest in the future are more likely to succeed, not the ones who spend immediately to satisfy current needs. Giving should be without conditions.
- The last point in the article, “You go Generic” is very pertinent. I have had people trying to connect to me by sending a generic “Chandra I would like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.” Okay, so those persons are busy, but they initiated the connection. Half the time I do not even know them or remember them. They want something from me, want to access my connections, but do not have the courtesy to send me a slightly personal note?
- The best part is when my students send me a ‘generic,’ calling me Chandra. Umm, okay, maybe that is fine in the US, but here, I still call my teachers, Sir or Ma’am. I expect a similar salutation.
What do you think?
Wonderful article. Especially about the last point about addressing teachers and seniors on first name basis is a strict no-no. I am glad some one pointed out . . . . .
Most of the people just add new connections to increase their “number & chat.” Do you think that linkedin is moreover becoming a social network than being a professional network???
Comments
Post a comment