Something that we have really noticed over the last year or so, is how the way people use LinkedIn is really changing – and not always for the better.

Over the next few weeks, we will be looking at some LinkedIn-specific tips to help you get the most out of the platform both on a personal level and as a business.

Our first port of call is to ask you to think about how you interact with people.  Of course, the main reason to be on LinkedIn is to extend your business contacts – however how you make those connections matters.  Instead of requesting a connection with the standard “I’d like to add you to my professional network,” add a personal message e.g., if you have previously met or have mutual connections – remind them, if you’re cold-messaging make an introduction and let them know why you’re interested in connecting.

No change to the standard wording looks like a connection without much thought; and people are increasingly declining this type of generic request.

Remember, you will get out of any platform what you choose to put in!