People are on LinkedIn for many different reasons.
Here is what I thought the reasons were :
Entrepreneurial Reasons
- Prospecting for clients
- Marketing – i.e.: attracting clients
- Looking for a Joint Venture Partner
Job Hunting
- Looking for a new job
- Looking to hire staff
Other
- Because other people are
I went out and asked my Linkedin network what they thought the reasons were – and was I surprised. The number of people who come on board to help others is fantastic. I was totally blown away by the impact LinkedIn Answers has on people.
Click here to find the original question and answer on LinkedIn Answers
The Success Stories series provides case studies from people about what it takes to become successful. Each of us is unique in our goals and aspirations, but we have things in common with others. Through the 10,000,000 people in my LinkedIn network we can share ideas and solutions that will help you achieve your goals. While I don’t always agree with all the comments I receive, I include all that are presented coherently and could help at least one of my readers.
The questions have been slightly edited for grammar and presentation. Comments and Kudos, while always appreciated, have been edited out.
Sales & Marketing Manager at www.TheMediaZoo.com
To network and for business. I create custom website videos that float on top of any website, and am happy to share ideas about marketing and internet initiatives with others.
Let’s grow together…
To succeed and help others succeed…
Coach, Consultant, Speaker Helping Clients Build the Q Strengths that Drive their Business, Leadership and Personal Edge
I am on Linked in because I believe the timeless secret to success is creating value for others. And, doing so in a flat world, a highly competitive marketplace and workplace means developing strong relationships, alliances that create win-win associations.
However, I still have not figured out what so many others are doing on LinkedIn, other than recruiters. I have 1200 contacts, most of whom asked to Link Up to me, and when I extend a greeting, suggest we discuss how we can be of service to one another it is rare that I get an answer.
I know that I am not alone, and it is too bad that those of us who are Linked Up are not LINKING IN!
Marketing Research Director at Plymouth Rock Companies (TopLinked.com)
I think LinkedIn offers an opportunity to learn. There are a lot of professionals participating who enjoy the free exchange of ideas. Fortunately there is diversity of thought and origin here that allows for civil and honest debate. There would be no learning at all if we all agreed.
Also, I think of myself as ten years behind my peers because I spent that first decade of my professional life as a free lance sound engineer. I perceive myself as a perpetual student so making the right connections can only add to my ability to advance in my career.
There are also tangible needs like many have — find business opportunities and better opportunities.
For anyone who would like to join my network, click on my name.
Experienced Internet Recruiter at Cumulusjobs.com, Entrepreneur, Owner, Pre-Paid Legal Services/Identity Theft Shield
I like to get to know a lot of people from all over. I am here to learn from others as well as help them if I can. I would like to expand my client base as well.
Management Consultant ? Corporate Strategist
I am very satisfied with the outcomes that I have achieved so far applying my networking strategy that I had defined as part of my mission as a networker when I begun being an active member of LinkedIn.
When LinkedIn Answers appeared some months ago I assumed the challenge of giving my advice in a collaborative environment to help in the comprehension, analysis and solution of problems, perspectives and decisions lived, faced and assumed by other managers, consultants and professionals in USA, UK, India, Netherlands and Canada among other countries.
I have learned from meaningful professionals around the world and I have enriched my professional knowledge with the convergence of different perspectives and opinions about professional and management’s themes that for American professionals might be related with Leadership and Innovation; Change Management for Europeans and Knowledge Management for Indian professionals.
Based in my consultancy skills, professional experience and knowledge in different disciplines in Management quickly realized that I could offer an outstanding and helpful contribution in solving business and managerial problems affecting the business dynamics of different industries in any country around the world.
Being so, I am already enjoying from the unique opportunity of rediscovering the old proverb that says: “Think Locally, Act Globally!” My dream comes true: Being a management consultant in a global business context through LinkedIn Answers.
When I am answering questions I privilege quality over quantity and I prefer take an active involvement in professional areas of my interest like Management, Career and Education and Hiring and human Resources where I have earned a valuable recognition from other networkers with whom I have shared my professional perspective that in a way that in many opportunities have been useful to anyone looking for a response, a solution or a perspective regarding a problem, circumstance or dilemma belonging to the professional and, sometimes personal sphere.
I am proud of having recognized managers and leaders, talented professionals and acknowledged authors among my first-degree connections thanks to the willingness of being active part from the LinkedIn collective intelligence.
LinkedIn has been a fundamental resource in building a positive reputation as a collaborative and knowledgeable member of the networked community and has enforced my own personal branding strategy.
I include as a complementary material 2 question that I have posted in LinkedIn time ago:
1. How do you use LinkedIn to build your Personal Branding?
2. Have the social networks such as LinkedIn been really useful to improve your job as a manager or leader? If so, how?” http://www.linkedin.com/answers/marketing-sales/advertising-promotion/inter…
Lead Application Developer / Business Analyst
Got invited by someone I know and had no reason to leave since.
Executive Partner at The Effectiveness Group
I have several reasons: The main reason is to gain clients. I hope to obtain connections to decision makers and introduce them to our training services, which I believe are quite original.
- The second reason is to obtain expertise. Our training programs, in addition to being engaging or fun, are scientifically based on research – either from publications or our own research. I am currently conduction research to see if there might be an “ideal” personality for overseas assignments. I am asking for a number of participants now. If you are interested or those reading the answers, please feel free to contact me.
- The third reason is to find release of frustrations or emotions. To share a common bond with people in similar states is sometimes lacking within a company.
Certified Life Coach
LinkedIn provides a unique opportunity for me to connect with people who may want to grow either personally or professionally through using the services of a Life or Business Coach. Since my service is done over the phone it made sense to me to connect to people who may be interested in finding a coach, but would like to find out more about them and perhaps even talk to people who have met me in person.
I am still in the process of learning the best way to utilize LinkedIn’s capabilities since I don’t want people to feel that I am just about me. In my networking groups that I do in person I like to meet people to see if I need their service or if there is some way that I can help them to grow their business and I would like to figure out ways to do that effectively on Linked In.
I love the Q & A section and have learned a lot just reading through the answers. It is a great venue, and I am still trying to harness its value.
CIO at VLTAVA-LABE-PRESS
There once was a man with a spin
Who tried hard to ignore this LinkedIn
But we shan’t find his name,
What a shame!
Just his claim “Less is more,” wearing thin.
Senior Applications Engineer at NEC 6800+ azlinkedin@gmail.com
· Be part of a big community.
· To get know people and let people know you
· Help others and benefit from others help
Network Security Specialist At Sierra Central Credit Union
I like to connect with old co-workers, and I sometimes find them here. It was good to see what the VP of O from a former job has been doing with his time lately.
I like to share information in the answers section, and get to know new people. It’s hard to meet peers out in the field, and being in IT the only time I converse with people OTJ is when they need me to fix something for them.
This is just one of the places I check during lunch time to escape from the daily grind, and much more cerebral than zoning out for an hour.
Managing Director at Frontwave Consulting
Basically networking, however LinkedIn helped me reconnect with former colleagues, found lost contacts and friends.
I made new friends using the system and now I use it mostly to find some insight on the industry and look for opportunities.
Since I’m focusing my career in Business Developing in the IT and Telecom sectors, and helping small and medium technology corporations to develop channels both in Europe and America I found LinkedIn extremely helpful to connect with people over the world to share opportunities.
Experienced IT Executive w/15 plus years of experience – Online Marketing Specialist & Website technology provider
I am on LinkedIn because I’m a power networker. I love to network, period. Online, offline, in person, via phone, via chat, I love to connect with people so as to grow personally and professionally.
I joined when someone invited me and I’ve made some great connections. I have become a “trusted resource” to many people who want an opinion on web and online marketing
Jenesys Group, LLC – www.jenesysgroup.com
Listen to Round Table
India – A podcast for Asian Indians.- www.miicc.com
Check out our latest launch: http://www.thebloogle.com – you haven’t blogged till you blog on thebloogle.com
Student at
Penn State University
As a student, LinkedIn is very helpful in creating a network of professional contacts which is essential to business. Whether it is fellow students who will be working one day, professors, or employers, I find it extremely useful at staying in contact with people. Not to mention, it’s easier than keeping a Rolodex.
With everyone using FaceBook for social networking, LinkedIn offers the business perspective. LinkedIn also adds a network of potential employers I can get in contact with through direct contact or the Job search.
Just a Junior undergraduate’s thoughts!
Writer/Author/Poet; Educator with Marketing/PR , Editing, Copy/Ad, Non-Profit & Cust Svc Experience
I am a part of LinkedIn to make connections that will benefit me in the future and that I can be a help to both now and in the future. To answer questions when I can and to be an Open Networker that welcomes people into a network that includes many creative and lovely people that I have come to know and respect.
Team Leader
-To gain some insight to other positions in the world.
-To gain knowledge from these intelligent people.
Also, somewhere along the way, I may pick up a new friend or two.
Management and Recruitment Consultant – michael@tntsearchgroup.com. [Toplinked.com]
I use LinkedIn for business . I am an executive search consultant and find that I can connect with people who are in a position to recommend potential candidates for positions I am trying to fill. Also it helps me to tap into the “passive candidate market”
I would be interested in connecting with like-minded business people that sees a benefit in adding me to their network. I will not refuse your invitation to connect.
You can contact me at michael@tntsearchgroup.com or check out my web site at www.tntsearchgroup.com
Peter B. Giblett MBCS, CITP, LLB
Corporate Risk – Statutory Compliance – Improving Business Results
Is there a root cause why I am here? Right now it is because I am currently seeking out a new job. But Services such as Monster and Workopolis, Eluta, and Craigslist and a couple of other sites are currently my sources for advertised jobs. I am also leveraging my own website to promote my own brand – goto www.giblett.info to have a look!
I expect to continue membership once I find a job and think that I will then continue to use LinkedIn for two things:
1) to continue to build fresh and exciting contacts; and
2) as a source of points of view.
I can see the possibility of employing people through this tool, provided people with the right skills are available at the right time. Apparently it is now an official Recruiter tool – although I have yet to be approached because of a search on Linked In, whereas I have been on the basis of Monster or Workopolis. This possibility is only a theory right now as I do not know what type of job I will get next.
Building contacts is an interesting prospect – My wife just signed up to Linked In (she is a mortgage broker) and by linking to me she added 50,000+ contacts, which she will be able to leverage. When John connects to Mary I think they do so (at least in part) in order to gain an advantage from the connection.
LinkedIn connections are not a Network in the true sense of the word. Networking requires more than leveraging each other’s electronic contact list, there has to be give and take by both parties.
I am attempting to create value for others through LinkedIn Answers by answering questions such as this, but even with Answers there needs to be give and take. There are some serious questions being asked which in my past I would have demanded fat cheques (checks) before answering. So there can be a tendency to degrade your personal value by answering questions – as this can be an income source for some people. So a sense of proportion is required. People need to answer questions to prove their expertise, but we must think of that person’s value and allow them to earn a crust.
A couple of people I think truly embody the principles of networking are Mary Lascelles and Brian C. Webb. Both give more than they receive.
Personally I try to add value, but I feel that as a writer (this is what I spend most of my time doing at the moment) I need to get paid for the contribution I make.
Wisdom Teacher – Dedicated to helping people evolve and making the world a more beautiful place
I am on LinkedIn to share my wisdom with the world and to learn from others.
I find networking also of value because if I cannot assist someone, I may have the opportunity to introduce them to someone who can.
Owner, Con-Yet Incorporated – Technology Creatively Captured in Words
I’m on LinkedIn to learn from others and to help others in whatever way I can. They say knowledge is power – so is connecting with people.
I write about technology. I help my clients get their message across to their audience in a clear, concise manner and as quickly as possible.
Blog http://giselleconyette.typepad.com/
Freelance Writer – Latest article in National Geographic Traveler
As a freelance writer for magazines and web sites, I am curious about practically everything and always alert for interesting trends. Social networking is a very interesting trend, and I wanted to learn about it by participating in a serious site rather than one more aimed at socialization. Secondly, other writers have told me that this is a good place to find experts when I need to interview someone for a story. Third, I hope that editors who are looking for a writer might find me, and that public relations people who have information that might help me in my writing might see me, also.
Owner, industrial Zen
I am here to make connections that might have more wisdom on topics than I. I also like to promote my business and myself, as well as recruit. The last thing I guess would be to assist others on their path in great forums like this one… by answering questions when I can… Being concise is under rated….
As for my story… I was the kid that after high school hitchhiked across country with a traveling band. I returned facing the inevitable, I worked my ass off. I lost part of it in the recycling industry. I lost a bigger chunk in the service industry… I got nowhere.
I tried comedy and sales but found neither one a comfortable fit. I’m not saying I wasn’t good at it mind you…
I see the world as it is, and I look to improve my tiny corner of the world; as I believe that’s all you can do. I want to look after the little guy in
America. Most immediately;
Indiana. I want to create jobs in my home town, for all levels of education; to encourage a healthy local economy.
So yeah… I am a bit political, and yeah…. I have some controversial views about video game content. I’m not a moralist, in the sense that it’s not my job to decide if you are fit mentally, for you. I am not a globalist! I believe when
America’s economy is healthy, the world’s economy is healthy. Finally, I believe if you are capable to do so, and do not… The harm befalls society and yourself.
Hardly a success story… I’m always recruiting talent and looking for investors…. Just throwing that out there…. I’m just starting, and I’m going against giants with a sling shot… falling down 5 times getting up 6… that’s success; and that’s my story.
Startup guy, Innovator, Web expert, Entrepreneur
Great place to meet experts & become an expert. Sharing knowledge, business, contacts.
Medical Sales / Clinical Nurse Educator (sales training)
I got on here over a year ago just by chance. I had no clue what this site was all about, never had networked and after joining didn’t really see the relevance to it other than reconnecting with people from college, past jobs, etc.
Now I have a completely different attitude and appreciation for this site. Primarily because I “figured out” how it works and how to make the most of being a member here.
- I have met several interesting people that I share common interests with.
- Utilizing the “Answer” section is like having my own personal expert to call on for anything I have questions about. People, like myself, love to share knowledge and insight into topics that they are familiar. I ask anything on here and of the thousands that might read and respond I get fantastic information based on their experience.
- It has helped in my job search by connecting me to recruiters, hiring managers, employees, resume tips, websites, etc
- I’ve met some “cool” people that I relate to…… not necessarily on a professional but social level.
- Has taught me how to more effectively interact with other professionals
- Reinforces the concept of “it is what you make of it”. Just having a profile on this site offers no benefit whatsoever. It’s the active communication I put forth that has been extremely rewarding!
Owner, AT YOUR SERVICE:Freelance Administrative Professional
It seems to me that in this day and age internet marketing has changed the standards from its traditional ways. Now that we have the ability to reach billions of people at our fingertips, the focus for successful marketing has turned into online networking. We live in a world of instant gratification. We all have some kind of service to offer and/or some kind of need to fulfill. We have the ability to join a website such as this one and become a part of this reciprocal process. Why wouldn’t you want to be here?
I am a Virtual Assistant offering freelance administrative support to other Independent Contractors and Entrepreneurs. The type of people that could utilize my services are going to be found here. As a Virtual Assistant, my target clientele is here in cyberspace. Visit my website to see how I can assist in the success of your business!
Executive Recruiting Specialist – glennanddenise@hotmail.com ~TopLinked.com~MyLink500.com
Being on LinkedIn really allows me to gather competitive intelligence on organizations and gives me a start in being able to target opportunities in specific markets.
UNH Undergrad & Bartender/Computer Specialist
I use LinkedIn to promote myself, sell myself and use it as a large networking source if I ever wanted to look for a new job or look to work with someone on something. Its also a great resume building tool. You can fill out the websites profile as if it was your own resume, which I really love. I am just nearly coming upon my final year at College and I am attending the
University of
New Hampshire as a Sociology major, which is another great reason why I am so attracted to sites like this. Anyone can feel free to contact me about my career interests and investigate my personal interests and aims further.
Business Development Manager at Schrofftech
I learned long ago that it is not about the product or service you are selling but about the people! It is about how you sell yourself and the relationship building that comes along with it. If you want a quick fix and have a get in and get out mentality then I would recommend used car sales.
In the professional sales arena it is about how you can help your customer get what they want when they want it at a price they are willing to pay for it.
Seems simple in theory but it really takes time and effort in researching, qualifying and building the relationship of trust that leads to the goal of a close / sale.
I am in the 2nd largest industry next to Health Care in the world. Telecommunications.
The overriding theme: Prospects in Telecommunications Industry only buy from salespeople they have trust and confidence in.. And it helps if they like you!
To answer your question regarding Linked In;
It is another avenue or venue to network and build relationships.
Again the bottom line is if you can meet people or prospects via LinkedIn and start some dialogue you are already over the hardest part of the sales cycle. LinkedIn also provides a way for your prospects to learn about you before a call or a product presentation.
I realized long ago that when I truly help people to get what they are looking for in a sincere way that always leads to sales!
Research Professional, Translator, Citizen of the World
Who Knows You on LinkedIn?
I have just come across a quote from David Perry, executive director of a recruiting firm and author of the Guerrilla Marketing series of books.
He says in the Ottawa Business Journal: “In the old days, it was what you knew. Then it was who you knew. Now, it is who knows you”.
Building LinkedIn network just fits exactly this “who knows you” idea, right?
While you are asleep, more and more professionals out of 14 million of LinkedIn members, including potential business partners and clients, hiring managers and recruiters, get to know you.
As I am l looking for interesting projects in Internet Research, Internet Marketing, International Business, Translation and Localization, I am building a rather versatile LinkedIn network of professionals from various countries and industries.
So, who knows me on LinkedIn?
Senior Marketing Manager at DLF Services Limited
I am on LinkedIn because it offers a great opportunity to connect and learn from others. Now only is it a platform to increase our networking, it also opens our world view. I have come across some wonderful people and have learnt from and shared with this online community.
There is a lot more that can be done however. I have actively started writing to people and invite them to meet, because LI can certainly help us ‘connect’ with a lot of people, however we need to use its power to help ourselves, be it for finding a new job, for idea sharing, for business leads, deals etc.
It helps me stay in touch, meet new people, expands my horizons and sharpens my learning curve. It’s good to be on LinkedIn.
Professor of Knowledge and Creativity Management at
Kwansei Gakuin University
To irritate other people by puncturing their balloons–god knows not to network or develop “opportunities” as if money and success a la Americans were anything but utter socially-sanctioned crap. A good book, a good wine, a good woman, a good conversation, and good weather–that is it.
Customer Understanding Connector, Moderator, Consultant and Facilitator
I’m on LinkedIn because I am a big believer in serendipity. I’ve had many acquaintances in my life who went on to be clients, clients who went on to be friends, bosses who had great advice that wasn’t needed until a later date, colleagues who moved in and out of my life multiple times…so I suppose it means all of your thoughts are included. Really, it’s because it’s all about the connections. (Also, it’s always fun to answer questions…since mostly I spend my time doing the asking…)
Make Money, Make A Difference
I use LinkedIn to connect with people I know and those I don’t. I find “Answers” is a great resource of information when I’m researching business methodology and perceptions for my Blog articles. It is also great for marketing purposes. I use “Answers” to find out if there is a need or interest in a subject/product that either myself or my clients are interested in delivering. I can also gain insights into industry segments that I don’t already understand thanks to many of you who participate here.
All in all, LinkedIn has been an excellent resource for me and my business.
This is a great platform for sharing!
Independent Translation and Localization Professional. Spanish English Interpreter & Translato
Networking has become my main source of reference, connectivity, recruiting, and work!
I strive to continuously expand my networking by referring other professionals. In turn, they get a testimonial of their experience/skills that other potential clients/business might be interested in. Their own boasting of such qualities might not seem as apparent to potential new partnerships.
Networking is one of the best ways to increase presence without decreasing your own standards as a professional. This is my experience:
I joined a professional association (ATA) in my field, (interpreter/translation). They offer a searchable directory database. This is where my membership paid off. A potential client has the opportunity to look for my services by specifying, language, service, location and even specific zip code area. If they worked with me or heard of me, they may search by name too. They are able to contact me directly by either email or phone. My advertising powers cannot achieve all this on my own!
My best customer found me through this service. It in turn affiliated me with their company and other affiliates. I worked with other affiliates and also created new connections for my field and theirs. I have maintained an increasing web of job connections and opportunities for both myself and others. LinkedIn is an online haven for what I have been doing offline.
I became an interpreter and translator by choice. Spanish is my native language and I am able to fluently communicate in English as a ‘first runner up’ language (I even *think* in English!). Situations in my upbringing and schooling aided in honing my bilingual skills, but the affinity to be able to think, speak, listen read and write this languages effortlessly became an everyday thing.
In
Puerto Rico, where Spanish is the main language, being an American territory also means English (language) influences. Marketing, advertising, commercialism, money, pop culture, religion, political ideologies, media….the influence is an everyday thing, sometimes subtle, sometimes blatant. My skills were able to develop an adaptability and diversify myself for many tasks and situations in the tourism, educational and business fields. As my tasks evolved, so did my skills.
I enjoy assisting others whenever a language barrier seems to be a problem: I can become that *magic* connection where a potential ‘lost cause’ may have been. I enjoy the satisfaction of seeing others being able to communicate effortlessly through my services. And I take great pride in doing it in the best possible manner so they can allow me their trust for aiding them in future ventures.
I am only one interpreter. I am one translator. But I am also the difference in the outcome of any situation/relationship:
Doctor-Patient (medication, care, consultation)
Parent-Teacher-Student (meetings, notices, communications)
Business management -Employee relations (training, services, recruiting, retention)
My experience ranges is innumerable and immeasurable:
-simple greetings from one person to another
-recorded court statements for detained foreign individuals
-informative parent-teacher conference
-serious doctor-patient discussion
-eye opening as a tourist guide-visitors experience
-accurate financial transaction between two parties
I have been there to make things happen.
Language is not a barrier. It should never be.
· http://samirisortizcollins.language123.com/
Meeting Host at Novotel Rotterdam-Schiedam
A friend of my told me about LinkedIn a couple of weeks ago. On LinkedIn I get the opportunity to increase my business network. It’s not as big as I expected in the beginning, but I’m working on it. I would like to contact with people in the hospitality sector.
CNS Specialty Sales Consultant at Vernalis Pharmaceutical
I think there are some who utilize this as their personal contact list manager- That’s cool. However, there is more value to be had. There are also tangible needs like many have — find business opportunities and better opportunities. Also, it’s a cool way to stay in touch with people who have crossed your professional life in years past.
Business Consultant and Project Manager
Paige and Olga have said it all for me. Only thing I would like to add is that all those real Professionals and brilliant Experts out there in the LinkedIn world is the reason I will continue to sign-on every free moment I have got.
Director, Software as a Service
I started out “just because” I was invited by a colleague. I had no real purpose beyond curiosity. In fact, I was initially sceptical, and did very little to promote myself
Then I decided to change jobs. That added a lot of interest, and I did use LinkedIn to try and network to a new opportunity… I can’t say that I got success from it, but it was certainly part of the process. Back in those days, LI was just a collection of links… not as rich as it is today.
These days I am trying to promote my brand. At some point in the future I expect that I will complete what I am trying to do at my current job, and will be ready to move on. Having my brand well established should help me in this. I can’t predict how, but I know that the only guarantee of results is to not participate – and be guaranteed no results.
Today, I like to participate in the Q&A forums. I’ve been rated Best Answer a few times. This has had a profound impact on me by demonstrating (to me) that my knowledge and expertise is valued in the larger world. This encourages me to continue to promote my brand (I deliver solutions for complex technical and organizational challenges using technology and interpersonal skills).
LinkedIn is not my only venue. I am also using twitter (@denthewise) and my blog (http://blogs.ittoolbox.com/cio/original-thinking) to publish my expertise, accomplishments & insights.
My ideal dream is that down the line someone will have a problem and identify me as the person who can help them solve it. I would love to have my next contribution come form someone asking me for help, rather than me having to take my bundle of solutions and skills in search of the next great opportunity.
Answering this question makes me realize that I am still on the journey. I would like to be much more concise and personally clear on it next time I try to answer this question.
Motivational Change Consultancy – Business & Personal Support [danny@kelta-associates.co.uk]-LION
I’m on LinkedIn because I see it as an opportunity and it helps to open ideas and create understanding.
It is not a quick route to creating income but a good way to opening more doors.
Mortgage Director, Freelance Writer, Chess Instructor – LauraSherman@earthlink.net
Well I started out to meet new contacts. I invited people that seemed interesting to me and expanded from there. After a while I realized that email contact is limited, so I chose some of the people in my area to actually meet. One on one networking is much more productive than large networking meetings, where you are really trying to get that one on one.
I hit upon the idea of hooking up with people, entrepreneurs, who would like to network. I figured if I like them and respect them and their business we can swap referrals. Of course they have to get to know me as well.
So far it is working well! I have met some quality people and have discovered there is more to LI than meets the eye. This forum for example is incredibly helpful! I have put out many questions and each time I have gotten a lot of help, valuable information
I have also been able to help others, which is my ultimate goal in life. It is very rewarding!
CONCIERGE RELOCATION SERVICES – Addressing your move details door to door
I had not heard of LI until last August when I was invited by someone I work with and I entered the world sceptically. It took my months to “get going”.
Now, I have been pleasantly surprised by the interaction from around the world, the different perspectives, the opening of my mind on so many levels. People are, for the most part, very genuine here.
Primarily, I came here to network…to learn what others do and hopefully they would take an interest in my work, too. Good people should work with good people. The Q&A is a wonderful format to get to know the heart of who people are and whether we’re a match in terms of how we approach our work. It is usually more indirect questions that expose that for me. I am not a technically minded person but am very drawn to the written word and what people have to say and how they say it. Some give long answers while others are short and to the point.
I believe this is a wonderful format to get to know people in the most interesting of ways. Business is starting to expand because of my involvement here and I also feel as though I have made some wonderful new friends around the planet. How much better does it get than that?
Career EquityTM Executive, Advisor & Speaker – Author of the forthcoming The Career Equity Playbook – LION- toplinked.com
Been on it a few years, with the purpose of leading the way for my career-moving executive clients. I learn LinkedIn’s norms and limits through observation and training seminars (and experimentation…on myself). I need to do this because I know career management and find that this tool (LI), like all new technologies at first, initially just replicated the limited old bad offline status quo. Among the constant process innovations I make as an advisory firm owner for 17 years, one is that I’m uniting the natural, informal, high-yield offline career and income progress formulas I’ve innovated, with the energy and ethics of the social media world, and Linked In is such a leader in it.
Founder – Career EquityTM
– the systematic career self-leadership process that pays dividends in wealth and freedom, now and always
Blog http://maryfrancesfox.typepad.com/career_equity/
Independent Online Media Professional and Writer, (books@jameshayes.ie)
To meet people
· who I can ask things about life,
· who will link with me.
· who can feel they can ask me about writing.
· who want to know about
Ireland
· and above all are nice people.
Teacher at
East Amwell Township School
While it may seem to be cliché and trite (but by judging from the responses I’ve read, perhaps not!), I want to help others succeed because I know from experience that in doing so, I will succeed too and make our world a better place.
Computational Linguist, Ontologist, Writer
I’m on LinkedIn because I’m using it to help me learn how to be a better communicator. I’m also here because I value the relationships I have with the folks in my network, and I’ve been finding that LI is a useful tool for maintaining and extending relationships.
I’m still learning about how business works, how entrepreneurs think, and the wide range of motivations that people in the professions have for doing what they do. LI provides me with opportunities to learn from other people, and now and then to offer what others might learn from me
Initially, several years ago, I joined LI because someone with a large network invited me, and I thought it might be mutually beneficial professionally for me to create a presence on LI. I’d say LI is catching on more broadly now, which may well change my answer to this question given a little more time.
It might be interesting to see how LI continues to evolve over time, and what kinds of creative uses people might find for the connectivity it enables. The Q&A, for instance, is clearly much more of a powerful tool than it was even two years ago. As several others here have said, I do believe in helping others make their world (and mine) a better place. In my case, I think that’s just part of being a teacher–I get a lot out of it.
Mohamed Mehenoun[LION][Toplinked.com]
Technical Support Engineer
I am on LinkedIn because I thought it would be a good way to build contacts and find an international offer. Furthermore it seemed and still seems a very good way to share expertise…The idea was to help others on technical question and to get help from others…
Right now I have over 500 contacts but I’m really in touch with three or four! It’s a pity to see that people don’t tend to network…
Anyway I still believe that LinkedIn is the future as it could become a powerful tool to reach professionals all over the world…
Account Manager
An excellent tool for prospecting as well as marketing. It supports my personal efforts in reaching out to others in order to help.
Civil Designer at Adtek Engineers
Got invited by someone I know and to ask questions about AutoCad or Lisp
Seeking Competitive Intelligence
Opportunity
Actually I use LinkedIn for a number of reasons:
- To connect with like-minded professionals in Strategy, Competitive Intelligence, and Investing.
- To connect with others in my search for a corporate position in Competitive Intelligence.
- To find people to help me better understand (due diligence) companies I may invest in.
- To help others as they search for information and knowledge.
- And, of course – to stay in touch with friends and colleagues all around the world.
“If you don’t have a competitive advantage, don’t compete!”
Jack Welsh, former CEO, General Electric
http://Brencom.com
Chief Bottle Washer of the Wholly Evangelistic
Church of
Wireless
To drive others nuts
Business Development Manager at MS Diamond Trading
I joined LinkedIn because I heard that it would help me answer a question about a new business idea I am attempting to make reality. I was very sceptical at first; why would anybody go out of their way to help a stranger when there is nothing in it for them? Well, I asked anyway because I had faith in the person giving me the suggestion to post a question.
As is turns out, not only did I receive many answers, but I was saved from an almost guaranteed disastrous outcome to my first ever importing venture.
In addition to taking some very good advice, I actually was “linked in” with people who are very experienced in importing, and business in general. It has not even been a week and I have hooked up with 4 different people that have helped me understand how to conduct global business.
If that is not enough, I even have made contacts with potential partners. this will undoubtedly help me advance my interests – as well as theirs – in a much more organized and informed manner.
I do not know what will come from all this, I have only been at it for a short time now, but I am a better, more knowledgeable person for signing up for LinkedIn.
Social media specialist. Startup consulting and entrepreneur
I am on LinkedIn to promote myself and my services- by helping others, and connecting to people that might be beneficial to me- and my services…
Toronto Marketing Consultant/Freelance Copywriter
In this “who-you-know” world, it is essential to consistently leverage paid and unpaid media (LinkedIn) opportunities to proactively market ourselves, and build our network of personal and professional connections – particularly if you are a marketing consultant.
Information Technology and Services Consultant
I am on LinkedIn to keep in touch with former co-workers and business associates. People frequently change jobs and email addresses so it is a great way to ensure that I can always get in touch with someone.
Also, for networking opportunities. Someone recently approached me about a job. It turns out that the CEO of the company was a 2nd contact (one of my contact’s contacts). Finally, I enjoy discussing various business issues and contributing through Q&A. Also, I recently found out (via Linked In) about a product that is in beta that may be useful for my employer.
Medical writer, editor, consultant, book author. Owner, TLG Publications medical writing group
For me, LinkedIn is a very selective news source–a window on what smart, creative, innovative people are thinking, seeking, and doing.
I’m a freelance medical writer, experienced in producing everything from complex scientific manuscripts for medical experts, to books and patient education materials for general audiences. I specialize in translating “medicalese” into plain English that physicians and everyone else can easily understand.
But I’m also a citizen of the world. I want to learn about the interests and concerns of people outside my immediate personal and professional sphere. In so many ways, we’re all linked in. This website helps me to strengthen those links.
Project/Program Manager – Contract Assignments
I was invited first of all. After being around a bit, I invited others, filled in my profile, got recommended and thought it would assist me in networking myself to be able to get contracts in project management.
I can’t say that has worked out too well. However, what has happened is that I have discovered Answers and enjoy reading up on topics of interest to me and even answering a question every now and then.
I’ve met a few new people through this medium and enjoy ‘talking’ to them about some of the things I am passionate about such as leadership issues, mentoring, team building, project management and a whole bunch of other topics.
Meeting others from around the world and having conversations with them has been the single best thing about my membership here at LinkedIn. The problem now is that I sometimes spend far too much time here and still, even though I seem to get a lot of ‘hits’, don’t have a contract.
Partner at Futuretek and Owner, Futuretek
Always looking to stay in touch with successful people.
Director Business Development at Progressive Staffing Solutions
I use LinkedIn because it’s not just about who you know any longer, it’s about how you behave with who you know. Linked in is a great platform to connect with business people who are looking to give and receive trust. How you behave determines your results. For example, we should all set aside some time every day to simply pay it forward, help someone out, for free, help for the sake of helping, using our expertise. We should also be clear when we are not doing this, when we are offering a service, clear, concise and professional communications…deals get done. if you send out a job asking your contacts who they know, you will receive some good answers for free, you will also receive calls from people like me on occasions, who specialize in building relationships with outstanding high performers on a global level. I will ask if you are open for a split deal, it’s only fair and only right. So you can do allot of open business on linked in as long as there is clarity of communications.
Linked in is also a great source of testimonials and referrals. If companies want to engage me, but are leery about using headhunters, they can view my testimonials, freely written and volunteers by my clients, staff and candidates. Couple this with our company testimonials and a person to person conversation, we should, with the help of LinkedIn, begin to realize the power of recommendation.
There are many other uses, from groups, alerts, job posting, profile viewing, event alerts and so on and so forth. Suffice to say that LinkedIn is extremely useful professionally and personally.
To summarize, LinkedIn is an amazing propagator of reputation and a global business table where deals, connections and introductions can be made. People don’t network just to be social bunnies, they network to market themselves, their companies and their reputation as an SME. Linked in is a good hub for this.
Equipment Project Manager at Trane
Well, I first was invited while I was unemployed, and it was a good way to try and stay connected with those people I used to work with. Now that I have found a job (but not started yet), I will continue to build my network in hopes to help others find jobs.
I also hope to use it when I need something from someone as well…but I am not sure what that would be yet…
Student at
Abington Memorial Dixon School of Nursing
· To connect with people of like interests
· to research and gain information
· to advance in a particular field of interest;
· to “open doors” for new opportunities, investments, referrals/introductions, etc.
· to build and develop relationships, with individuals, which are mutually beneficial, to them, to my colleagues, contacts, potential business associates, and me.
Communications Associate at Urban Land Institute
Probably the most common answer is to stay connected with colleagues as they come and go in the work world. I work in media relations, so I use it to get in touch with others on Linked In. It works pretty well. It is also great for finding answers to questions and seeing what else is going on in your industry.
Managing Director at MOSO & PERSOCO Ltd
I’m new to LinkedIn and just starting to learn how to use it, so I’ll suspect my response may be a little different to those who are old hands at LinkedIn.
- I hope to broaden my horizons by learning from more experienced networkers.
- I fully subscribe to the philosophy of what you give in life; you get back, so I hope that by connecting to a much wider group of contacts there may be areas in which I can help them to reach their goals and targets and in so doing, help reach my own – one of which is to positively influence 1 million lives – so, I’ve a long way to go!
- I’m interested in people who come from differing backgrounds as they are likely to hold different views to me and I feel it’s important to keep abreast of views that differ from my own.
- I hope to use LinkedIn as a tool to help me find answers to questions I may have and perhaps challenge the thinking of others.
- Technology is ‘shrinking’ the world and LinkedIn seems to me to be a perfect way to reach across borders and boundaries.
- I’ve already used LinkedIn to find old colleagues that I’d lost touch with and I hope it will help me ‘track down’ yet more.
- I’ve already used LinkedIn to help me source a service supplier in my region.
- I’ve managed to put people into contact with each other where I’ve thought they may be able to help one another with specific business projects.
Engaging leadership and management development facilitator
I’m here to connect to people in an online environment – I find this to be an easy medium for communication.
By trade, I am currently a leadership development coach and trainer, but my reasons for being here go way beyond my job.
1. I’m fascinated by the concept of social/business networking and LinkedIn is a great example.
2. I have reconnected with people from past work situations that I had lost track of. We are a mobile society and with the new model of multiple careers and jobs, it can be difficult to stay in touch with business contacts.
3. I have reconnected with people who were personal friends from “long ago and far away”. The world is a much smaller place than we realize, but this is a great tool to help us surmount the physical distances.
4. I have reconnected with students who I worked with during my college student development days. This has been a special treat, since I get the often rare gift of finding out how young people have grown and matured.
I did join with the expressed purpose of building a business network – contract, recommendations, business leads and so on. However, I have found a much richer experience by just looking for people I know.
Besides, you never know who might help you find your next success.
Add your insights and opinions in the comments section below!
Success Stories are part of my Success Through Balance approach to life. I believe that Success comes from living a balanced life. You can read more about being successful and the skills required here.
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First I was skeptical about joining any networking group. But as I began to network with fellow voice over artists on industry related forums, I found that many were joining LinkedIn as well as social networking sites. I have made many contacts through my involvement in LinkedIn. I even landed a job through a contact I made through my part time job.
I feel that LinkedIn will set the bar as how professionals make contact and expand their network.