A LinkedIn lament

Ann Spoor //December 13, 2011//

A LinkedIn lament

Ann Spoor //December 13, 2011//

I recently posted this update on my LinkedIn: “If you want to connect to someone you don’t know, don’t use the auto-populate message. Tell me why you want to connect and personalize it. Give me a reason to say yes.”

I actually posted it twice because I wasn’t sure people saw it. It then occurred to me that the people I wanted to see it weren’t in my network, so they aren’t going to see my updates.

I continually get requests to connect from people I don’t know. They indicate they are “Friends” but we both know that isn’t true.

I make my email address very easy to find so this isn’t an impediment. I want to connect and build my network. I want to help others build theirs. I am selective about saying yes.

No matter what box someone checks though, I hate getting the auto populated message that LinkedIn provides. Did I say hate? Yes, I HATE it. It shows me that you have nothing more to say, you don’t take an extra 20 seconds to introduce yourself, you just want to take advantage of my network.

Here’s an analogy: Imagine someone walking up to you at a cocktail party, and rather than saying hello, shaking your hand and introducing themselves, they reach into your pocket/purse and take your wallet. Yes, that may be a bit of a stretch, but it makes sense, doesn’t it?

So, slow down. Give me a reason to accept your invitation. Maybe, just maybe, there is a relationship to be built and cultivated.

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