The Issue with a Networking Network

Recently I have been seeing a lot of postings on LinkedIn lamenting on the immediate "pitches" that happen after making new connections. 

First lets be honest here. LinkedIn is for "linking" to other professionals. Although some use it as an on-line resume or CV, I think the majority of people join to grow their networks and connections. and yes, increase their business reach. So why all the complaints?

It comes down to one thing. Etiquette. Is there anything wrong with pitching someone on your business? No...But there is something wrong with how people are doing it. 

As with any sales process, you need to build the relationship. Otherwise you are no better than the telemarketer that calls the home, asks for you by name and then just goes into the his pitch. How do you even know if your product is right for me and I am right for your product. As well, it is immediately intrusive, I don't know you and you are peppering me with your features, advantages and benefits before you have even asked me anything about me.

I have no problem with someone asking to do business with me. But it has to make sense. Connect with me, get to know me a little, build some rapport, get the permission. Then ask. Because I may ask you the same. 

But if you don't, and the first thing you do when we connect is pitch me on your business says you don't care about me at all and don't see any value in us connecting outside of feeding your pipeline. Which is a one sided relationship. And that doesn't work.

My advice, use LinkedIn the same way you would network in real life. Connect, converse and then ask. But for the person who has no idea about me or my business needs but immediately sends me their business pitch, yes, you are spamming me...