There was a time when I considered LinkedIn to be a fact based, static and let-me-show-you-who-I-know platform, unsuccessful in driving engagement or building new, exciting business opportunities. Did anyone spend any time there unless they were preparing themselves for a new job?
Most profiles were focusing solely on merits, best case a descriptive summary of what they had accomplished in the past. I was told I shouldn’t connect with people I didn’t know personally, the best connection would be somebody I had worked with for years and could recommend personally. Moreover, I shouldn’t share too much of what I was doing at the moment or planning to do in the future, my competitors could get access to the information…
The lack of strategy among it’s members was striking, beyond a dusty resume, what were professionals really hoping to get out of their presence? Was it at all possible for members to understand anything about other members’ key drivers and aspirations beyond looking for a new job?
The increasing trend now is that LinkedIn members spend more and more time on the platform. Many are still looking for jobs (or candidates), but members are increasingly expanding and nurturing their professional network, getting inspired and inspiring others, and last, but not at least, positioning themselves as attractive business partners, “the-go-to-person” and great networkers. And it’s considered intriguing to connect with someone with whom you share passion or area of interest.
Today, the titles of your LinkedIn contacts are less important. The willingness to share and act as your matchmaker for new business opportunities are the key characteristics of your ideal LinkedIn connection. Combined with the new focus on articles by industry authorities, more sharing in groups and built-in CRM functions, LinkedIn is making it almost irresistible not to spend time on the platform on a daily basis. Not because I have to. Because I LOVE to.
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