Inviting Someone To Be Your Connection

Inviting Someone To Be Your Connection

To start your LinkedIn online relationship you need to invite them to become part of your network. As with all relationships the only way to do it is with courtesy, politeness and good manners.

When you use the default message Linkedin suggests “I’d like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn”, I believe, ticks none of those boxes.

‘Include a personal note ( optional)’ says LinkedIn. It should  read ‘We strongly recommend you send a personal note and unless you know the person very well remind them where you have previously met’.

When it’s time to invite someone the box below appears.

1 When you tick ‘I don’t know Emily’ Linkedin say, strongly, you cannot link in.

2  When you click either Friend or Other you will be asked for an email address. If you click other please explain in your invitation the reason you want to connect.

3 Colleague and Classmate is easy as you are asked which company or school/ university you were at. The software matches your profile with theirs so it works a treat.

4 “We’ve done business together”. When you select this option the drop down shows YOUR  OWN  present or past employers / businesses. Many people use this option when they find the other options don’t work even though it might be untrue. What a way to start a relationship! My advice is if you can only use this button explain in your invitation why you used it and apologise for doing so. At least that way you have started off the connection with some honesty. If you’re a recruiter it maybe you have a position for them.