Basic of LinkedIn Online-Offline connect!

I am sure, lot has been written on this topic already (not sure if I have read any of that). So can’t really give a number of how many articles.

A recent incident led me to write about this topic. In past I have really had though provoking responses on my posts and I thought it would be good idea to put forward my thoughts and hear from other about their experiences.

I typically get between 3-12 connection requests from known, little known & unknown professionals across the globe. And believe me; I accept all of them, unless it has got some obscene photo or illicit detailed profile. I simply think it is disrespectful to “Reject” a connection request. You may have different view and I respect that too.

Let us divide this discussion in there sections, (before: during: after) x connect.

Before:

1. Best connect is when you know the person. Either you have met, spoken to or via common connection.
2. When you send an invitation to please give context to how you know that person. E.g. it could be as simple as I read your article in Dataquest or I met you at the booth at so-so event.

During:

1. Often online connect leads to offline connect. I have met close to 20-22 people (first time connects) in last few year. And some of these connects are converted to on-going business engagements or volunteering activities. I appreciate these connects & would really keeping doing it in future.
2. When you want to reach out to someone for a job, business proposal, etc. drop them a note which ideally should contain no more than 5 lines. (No one likes to read an essay in an email). It should contain at least the following:
   1. Reason for connect
   2. Request for time slot
   3. Mode of communication
   4. Little background on how you connected (not needed if you already know the person)
3. Once you both have agreed on a common time to talk/meet, be polite and nice.
4. Introduce yourself on the call.
5. DON’T be a stalker e.g. I know you worked at this, then you worked at this, then you worked at this.
6. DON’T throw names that you don’t know well. E.g. I know so & so in your company. Then why don’t you keep you connects there, why do you want to connect with me!!!????
7. RESPECT! RESPECT!! RESPECT!! Other persons (view, thoughts, beliefs & most important time) DON’T show-up late for a call/meeting & then apologies for the same. Keep the person posted for any delays.
8. Don’t ask personal question, such as age, salary etc.
9. Don’t ask any confidential information
10. Refrain from passing lame comment/s

After:

1. It is always good to send a short “Thank You” note after the meeting.
2. Provide follow up on the actions decided during the meeting.
3. Decide & define possibility of next meeting (if required)

Happy Connecting & Networking!!

Your view & comments are welcome, as always! I am sure, I might have missed may best practices, please keep them coming, I will update the post with the same.