LinkedIn Networking Mistakes

Today, we talk about networking. Not just LinkedIn networking, but all types of networking. Some of you may remember the old-fashioned networking events. You would show up with a business suit on, shake hands, pass out business cards, and then conduct follow-ups afterwards. 

From my view, the value of these in-person events was the personal touch. It is hard to beat face-to-face interactions when it comes to building trust and rapport. You are able to read body language, share a laugh, and make a memorable impression. In essence, it is easier to create a lasting bond when you have shared a real conversation. 

Now, let’s juxtapose the old-fashioned networking approach with LinkedIn networking.  LinkedIn stands out as a highly effective platform for advancing your career or finding consulting opportunities. We strongly recommend using LinkedIn, as it is specifically designed for building professional connections and discovering new opportunities in your field. 

But…How do you obtain a similar connection on LinkedIn as you would in an in-person event? And are there different expectations regarding behavior on the LinkedIn platform versus other networking avenues? 

This is today’s Podcast topic. One of our favorite podcast guests, Lyle Gee, joined us to discuss some of the most common mistakes people make on LinkedIn and how to avoid them.  

Here is a breakdown of some of the things we discussed:  

Do You Have a Clear Networking Strategy?

When it comes to LinkedIn networking, quality matters more than quantity. We provide tangibles to help you curate your network by connecting with professionals who align with your career goals. How can you leverage referrals and introductions to expand your network thoughtfully? Is it important to personalize your connection requests? And if so, what is the best connection request message? 

What are the best practices when participating in group discussions? How active should your engagement be in order to drive traffic to your profile and open doors to new opportunities? 

When is ‘Being Personal’ Good? When is it Bad? 

You have to get personal to build relationships. But what is the balance between getting personal and being too personal? 

Are there some topics that should be avoided? Or…are all topics fair game for discussion, but how you post about them is the real issue to consider? 

When is the Best Time to Network? 

Spoiler alert – always. Are you taking the initiative to endorse colleagues’ skills or write thoughtful recommendations without expecting anything in return? Or do you wait until you’re job hunting to connect with others? 

Join us today as we discuss LinkedIn networking best practices as well as common pitfalls. The goal would be to help you build a more effective LinkedIn presence that supports your professional growth and helps you stand out in your industry.

craresources