Written by Amie Gant, Career Center Communication and Design Assistant, Bachelor of Science, Professional Writing.
Because having good etiquette on social media can positively impact your professional development, knowing what to do and what not to do on each social media platform is crucial. Actions that are completely acceptable (or unacceptable) on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms might actually be sinking your chances of making the connections you need on LinkedIn for that dream job.
LinkedIn has its own set of rules. Here are 12 you may not be aware of:
- It’s not creepy to connect with individuals immediately after only talking to them for 10 minutes at a conference. While normally this might be perceived as being desperate, on LinkedIn you’ll want to send that request instantly so they don’t forget you.
- Turn off your activity when you’re updating your profile to avoid bombarding your connections with dozens of updates.
- Don’t ignore recruiters even if you’re not searching for a job. Leave that door open for future contact by thanking them for reaching out to you, and let them know you’ll remember them if your situation changes.
- Always customize each connection request, and never click on the blue “Connect” button while scrolling through a search or “People You May Know” list. The blue “Connect” button only lets you personalize your message when you are on someone’s profile.
- Don’t be afraid to connect with someone who either works at your dream company and or is in a position where you would someday like to be. However, make sure you double-check the person’s contact policy for any messaging requests.
- Don’t connect with a hiring manager even if your interview went well. It’s unnecessary and makes you appear overconfident.
- Endorse people only for skills you know for sure they have. If you endorse someone just to be nice, when you don’t truly believe the person is skilled in an area, you are reducing the effectiveness of the system.
- It’s okay to ask for endorsements from people who have worked closely with you or who have seen your abilities first-hand.
- Write awesome recommendation requests, and detail the specific highlights you are looking for.
- You’re not obligated to recommend people who are less than deserving. Don’t ignore their recommendation request, but instead, send them a private message such as, “I’m not the right person to give you a recommendation, but I wish you good luck.”
- Know when to use the “Remind” and “Withdraw” While it’s okay to “Remind” someone who you know won’t mind a friendly nudge, never “Remind” someone if you only know them professionally or if they are higher ranking than you. In those cases, use the “Withdraw” button after your request has gone unnoticed for a few months.
- Feel free to remove recommendations you don’t like, and don’t neglect to thank people who have recommended you.
To read more tips on LinkedIn etiquette, visit TheMuse or contact the Career Center to schedule an appointment with a Career Resources Specialist who can give you a quick review and tips for your LinkedIn profile.