LinkedIn is a popular social networking site for professionals. For most of its users, it’s a way to connect with people you know professionally and a place to engage in intelligent conversation with other people.
One of the features that LinkedIn offers is LinkedIn Groups, which is the ability to create a community and discussion around a particular common interest. Many people form and join groups to connect with others and enjoy a nice discussion regarding a specific topic.
When joining and participating in LinkedIn Groups, it’s important to follow some basic etiquette. After all, you want to maintain your professional image on LinkedIn, and you don’t want to alienate people by doing something that others may consider unethical or even spammy.
Here are some things to take note of with regards to using LinkedIn Groups:
1. Don’t join a group that’s not related to your expertise. If you won’t be able to contribute meaningfully to the discussion, then what’s the point of joining the group? Also, there are some groups that are open for anyone to join, while others need the approval of an administrator.
2. If you’re the group administrator, don’t invite users who probably won’t be interested in the group. It’s a waste of someone’s time to get invitations to groups that aren’t really relevant to their expertise. So if you’re the group administrator, make sure to only invite people whom you know will be interested in participating in the discussion.
3. Keep your posts relevant. It’s not a good idea to post merely for the sake of posting. And if the discussion’s all about marketing, then don’t post about the stock market crashing. Also, remember that LinkedIn is a social networking platform for businesses and professionals, so don’t post personal discussions that are more appropriate for Facebook and Twitter.
4. Members should limit their postings of new discussions. If you are posting too many discussions in a week, you should probably consider creating your own group rather than filling someone else’s group with your posts.
5. Do not sell or post any advertisements. A LinkedIn Group is a place for discussions, not for getting prospects or advertising yourself or your brand. This will only result in a negative impact on your brand. If you add value to the discussion, then another member may be interested enough to connect with you and learn about what you’re selling.
6. Be respectful – do not start arguments with others. Remember, you’re all professionals here, so don’t start arguments or flame wars in the group, or you’re likely to get thrown out and banned.
7. Always think before you post – if you don’t want the public to read it, then it’s better not to post it. Participating in LinkedIn Groups can help you form meaningful connections with others and meet new people whom you may enjoy connecting with professionally. So make sure that you remember these practical tips when you join and participate in a group. Don’t be the odd one out – always ensure that you add value to the group you’re in and to the topic you’re discussing.