LinkedIn Connections – How Did You Do It?
One of the features that I truly like on LinkedIn’s website is the ability to ask and/or answer questions on a multitude of subjects. A short while ago, I received a question asking me how I got so many connections, and of course, I was pleased to answer! Here’s what I said:
Yes, My connections are approximately 8,500 now but it has taken a while to gain that many! I’ve been a member of LinkedIn since 2004 and only really became active in 2006.
My best advice to you is to join some forums, ask some questions, answer questions whenever you can to showcase your expertise and don’t be afraid to be the one to extend your hand first in friendship.
Invite others to connect with you – I accept every invitation that comes my way. There are so many people on LinkedIn that if I don’t accept your invitation I may never find you again. At least when we are connected, you are in my Rolodex and hopefully we can maintain some form of communication. But do remember it is also a 2-way street!
When you invite someone to connect with you, don’t use the “generic” invitation issued by LinkedIn, but take the time to craft an invitation that works with your own personality. Tell the person why you want to connect or what your expectations are going forward in this new relationship. When your invitation is accepted, don’t forget to send a thank-you note. That is the one thing that few people on LinkedIn do on a regular basis. If you are looking for a way to make yourself unique, be sure to send that thank you note EVERY time you accept an invitation! Along with thanking them for inviting your connection, why not take a minute and share one of your favorite tips with them or perhaps tell them about one of your favorite connections and offer to make a personal introduction. Guaranteed – you will definitely be unique!
I’m glad you liked my question – I do too! I’m a Netweaving Coach and teach others how to build their business by helping other people first, without expectation of immediate personal payback. The absolute best way to build your business and relationships! People do business with people, not businesses! So be personable, start a conversation, make a new connection and develop those business relationships.
If you have not already done so, please DO connect with me! Don’t forget to use my LinkedIn email address.
If there is anything I can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me!
As always, I’m happy to chat with you about your netweaving/networking needs – just contact me through email, Twitter, FaceBook, LinkedIn or an old-fashioned telephone call! If you would like to know more about my face-to-face weekly group coaching sessions, please visit my website .
To Your Netweaving Success!
Carol
P.S. Your comments are always welcome – please post them below!
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