Q and A on Linked In

Q and A I have been asked frequently regarding Linked - In:
I know that if I have been asked these questions by others, you may be thinking them.  Well here you go!

1. How do you select a group?

a. Groups that you choose to join are based on what you are trying to achieve in using Linked-In. A great place to start, are on groups dedicated to your sales region or industry you are trying to reach.

b. Groups all have lengthy and detailed descriptions also… so many times searching a group criteria and reading these will help you determine if a group is for you or not.

c. It is easy to join and leave groups… so trial and error (until you find the groups that stick) may be the best option!

d. See what groups your connections are a part of – often if you are connected you will find value and interest in being in the same groups.



2. What is the protocol for referrals?

a. Often referrals are used and abused! This is not a good thing. You need to be sure that the person you are asking for a referral from is someone you know well. You want to be sure that they will not feel like you are “stealing” their connections.

b. Also, you need to be clear in the intent of the referral. I often use the line “Would you be willing to refer me to…because…” This seems to work well. Be honest and open.

c. In the end referrals are a tricky thing. The person you are asking the referral for holds the “power” and may very well say no for good reason or not. I have often turned down referrals because it was not a good fit, because I knew that it would not go over wel, ect… I have also passed many referrals along. It really all depends on the situation, the people involved, ect… so don’t be hurt if youa re turned down.

d. Referrals ARE however a better alternative to connecting with people who don’t know you at all. Don’t be afraid to use them… just be aware.



3. How do you establish a personality / credibility on Linked-In?

a. Your Linked-In personality comes from 2 things; Your profile (think of this like your business card), and your comments and discussions (think of this as your face to face meeting).

b. Every one has their own goals for Linked-In and this will depend on what personality you would like to portray. Only you know the people that you would like to attract or the Industries you want to appeal to. Use this as a guide line for the language you use. How you want to be seen and who you want to see you.

c. Often times the profiles are more straight cut and the discussions and posts are more “business casual”.

I hope this has helped and please feel free to ask me more questions that you have and I have not answered.

- Bek