The Dos and Don'ts of LinkedIn Etiquette

With over 700 million users, LinkedIn is the go-to professional network for job seekers, recruiters, and businesses. But with great power comes great responsibility. Follow these dos and don'ts of LinkedIn etiquette to make the most of your profile and connections.

Do Keep Your Profile Updated

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital resume. Keep it up to date with your latest skills, experience, and achievements. Use a professional headshot and customize your headline and summary to showcase your unique value proposition.

Don't Spam Your Connections

Sending mass messages or connection requests is a surefire way to get ignored or even reported. Instead, personalize your messages, and only connect with people you have a genuine interest in networking with. Be respectful of people's time and don't expect a response right away.

Do Engage with Your Network

LinkedIn is all about building relationships. Like and comment on your connections' posts and share relevant content that could benefit your network. This will help you stay top of mind and show that you're an active and engaged member of the LinkedIn community.

Don't Oversell Yourself

While it's important to highlight your accomplishments and skills, avoid coming across as too self-promotional. Instead, focus on providing value to your network and building trust and credibility over time. Don't exaggerate or lie about your qualifications, as this could damage your reputation.

Do Join and Participate in Groups

Joining groups related to your industry or interests can be a great way to expand your network and learn from others. However, avoid posting irrelevant or self-promotional content in groups. Instead, share valuable insights and engage in thoughtful discussions with group members.