LinkedIn’s etiquette is vital to know and execute, as LinkedIn stands out from other social media platforms. LinkedIn is a worldwide network for all business professionals and recruiters. The platform intends to connect these individuals to promote success. It can be a huge help to make connections with attorney prospects, assuming you know how to use it properly. Therefore, it’s important to know etiquette to help you get the most out of it.
LinkedIn’s Etiquette
Be Prompt
Since you are dealing with other business professionals, all workplace rules still apply, namely timeliness. You cannot leave people in the dark, especially on business days. Get in the habit of responding to anything within 24 hours. This applies to everything that you want to pursue.
Don’t Invite People to LinkedIn Using Their App
Like any other form of social media, when you sign up, the website prompts you to invite friends via email or text. However, instead of inviting them then, wait until you complete your profile. Then you can personally invite people and be sure it is only those who are relevant connections.
Do Customize All Automated Messages
LinkedIn gives you the option to use automated messages when sending invites or for other communication. However, instead of using those impersonal options, craft your own. Taking the time to write individual connection requests and other messages will make a difference in the long run.
Don’t Pester People
Again, this is a business-oriented platform. If someone does not accept your connection request the first time, don’t continue to re-send it. The same goes for messaging. Regardless of if you are selling or buying, or connecting, don’t instantly message someone. Give yourself and them time to acquaint yourself with one another. While those messages might eventually be essential to send, don’t jump in it aggressively.
Do Connect to Engage – Not to Sell
Instead of connecting for the sole purpose of finding attorney clients, connect when you know there is the opportunity to create a mutually beneficial relationship. Otherwise, people will groan anytime they see your posts pop up, and you won’t grow your business. Starting solely with money in mind will never help, which is true for much more than LinkedIn.
Do Stay Active and Consistent
LinkedIn is different than other social media platforms in that it rewards those who are the most active. A simple goal to strive for is posting at least three times a week, but no more than once a day. In those posts, include articles, blog posts (which should be shared automatically onto your profile), and regularly engage in whatever groups you are in. The way the algorithm works best supports those who stay active. Otherwise, it’s back to square one.
LinkedIn can be an excellent tool. However, you can’t be halfway in. Just like with any other social media platform, you have to be committed to it. Remember to build connections and only then pursue potential attorney clients, not the other way around. Ultimately, the way you interact on LinkedIn should not be too far off from how you behave in person.
If you have any tips and tricks for LinkedIn, please post them in the comments. Let’s have active participation here.
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Pat Iyer is president of The Pat Iyer Group, which develops resources to assist LNCs in obtaining more clients, making more money, and achieving their business goals and dreams.
Pat’s related websites include the continuing education provided on LNCEU.com, the podcasts broadcast at podcast.legalnursebusiness.com, and writing tips supplied at patiyer.com.