Ten Ways to Fail on the Biggest Social Media Platforms: LinkedIn
This is the fourth and final way to fail on the biggest social media platforms. If you missed the others, here they are:
LinkedIn has survived in Social Media Land almost longer than any other platform. It’s there quietly behind the scenes, ready for when you want to make new connections. There are roughly 300 million people on LinkedIn. If you’d like to read more statistics, you might want to read this interesting compendium of 100 Amazing LinkedIn Statistics.
No picture
Do you connect with people who have no photo? Neither do most people. Also, with a photo, people are much more likely to view your profile. As on other platforms, people think that you’re not “all in” if you don’t have a photo. If you really still think you don’t need a photo, read this article on Huffington Post, 5 Reasons You Must Have a Photo on LinkedIn.
Saying you did something you didn’t
Why would someone do this if they could get caught so easily? Were you really an astronaut AND a brain surgeon during college? Ok. I believe you.
No original content
It’s hard to imagine, but some people have stolen other people’s words. If you’re not good with words, there are many people who are good with words who can help you. Ask your friends. Or do a search for editors! You’re sure to find someone.
Ten Ways to Fail on the Biggest Social Media Platforms: LinkedIn
Don’t finish your profile
What about those people who stop writing right in the middle of a sente…?
Asking for testimonials from strangers
Have you ever had this happen? You just got connected with someone and they ask for a testimonial! You’ve never worked with them before, and only met them at an event a couple of times. Don’t be that guy.
Don’t have connections
You can still make connections with people even if you’re not looking for a job.
Only connect to people you know personally
You don’t have to have lunch with someone five times before you connect with them on LinkedIn. Really.
Spelling errors
See, “No original content,” above. An editor can help. Use a spell checker if you don’t have the time or money to hire an editor.
Sending spam
If you immediately ask people to buy from you, that’s spammy. Whether it’s an auto-DM on Twitter, or a private message on Facebook, most people won’t engage with you if you do that.
Never posting
People want to know what you think, so posting an article, even occasionally, helps them see what your interests are.
What LinkedIn mistakes have you seen?
Leave me a message in the comments! Thank you!
No photo or a photo with your dogs or kids or a half-cropped photo are the biggest fails I see.
Hi Bridget,
Yes, the wrong picture can turn people off for sure. Thanks for commenting.
Sincerely,
Carol