How to NOT Build Relationships on LinkedIn

Ah, LinkedIn. You either get it, or you really REALLY don’t get it.

Those that know how to use it effectively know that it’s a long-term play and is about building relationships. What it is not about is directly pitching people, especially if you know nothing about them.

I present Exhibit A, the bait.

Hooray! He’s a real person and wants to know more about me.

I reply, touching on his comment about networking by suggesting he check out LunchClub. It’s a pretty cool, free professional networking tool that has high caliber people. I’ve been using it for about 3 months and have enjoyed most connections.

I then point him in the direction of my bio page to address his question about learning more about myself.

He replies, further interested in what’s working and not working for me on LinkedIn.

This is where things get fishy. 

How many people do I reach like this manually? I didn’t initiate the conversation. ?? So I do my best to assume what he’s getting at.

Here it comes… the setup. The pitch.

I can respect his goals, so I do us both a favor of giving a direct reply of “Zero interest.”

But we can’t stop there, can we?

Passive aggressive replies always convert a lead!

Before replying, I took a moment to validate my feedback.

132 connections.

Seems legit for a person whose product is increasing connections.

I asked if I could offer some feedback, to which he agreed.

Gratefully, the criticism was warmly received, and we ended on a positive note.

The numbers game may get you a head start, but quality and intent in your messaging, efforts, and relationships are what will build sustainability.