MEMORANDUM
To: Write as Rain, technical writing group
From: Alicia DeGelder, undergraduate writing student
Date: 7 February 2019
Subject: LinkedIn Best Practices
As requested in assignment 2:2 on the ENGL 301 blog, I have researched appropriate social media usage and compiled a list of the ten best practices for professional networking on LinkedIn.
- Implement quality control on connections – Connections should be known personally or via a mutual connection – it is acceptable to send a note asking to describe the connection before accepting a request.
- Personalize connection requests. – Along with specifying how you are associated, include a short, personalized note stating why a connection may be mutually beneficial.
- Back-up accomplishment statements – Provide examples of completed work (e.g. portfolios, websites, documents)
- Continually refine your profile – As with a resume, your profile should be updated frequently to keep current.
- Choose a professional photo – Having a professional headshot is key to setting the right first impression.
- Maintain business etiquette – LinkedIn is a platform for professional networking and proper etiquette should be observed (e.g. remain polite and treat others respectfully)
- Write an interesting and compelling summary – Add some personal details to get people interested. Remember to keep it concise!
- Maintain a positive attitude – Think and share positive messages that will benefit others.
- Request recommendations – Ask prior to sending a recommendation request and follow-up with a quick thank you note.
- Utilize the Groups section to grow your network – Join groups that are relevant to personal goals in order to grow your network in the right direction.
In summary, one must maintain professionalism when online networking; be kind, courteous and gracious in all encounters. I hope you find these tips useful when navigating through the world of online networking.
Works Cited:
“Build your online presence with LinkedIn.” The University of British Columbia, https://students.ubc.ca/career/career-resources/build-online-presence-linkedin
Frost, Aja. “7 Ways to Take Your LinkedIn Profile From Good to Great.” Newsweek, 31 May 2015, newsweek.com/career/7-ways-take-your-linkedin-profile-good-great
“LinkedIn Etiquette & Best Practices: 20 Do’s & Don’ts.” Top Dog Social Media, 2019, topdogsocialmedia.com/linkedin-etiquette-and-best-practices/
Wasley, Sasha. “So, Who do you connect with on LinkedIn.” LinkedIn, 19 June 2014, linkedin.com/pulse/20140619020245-25731944-so-who-do-you-connect-with-on-linkedin
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