LinkedIn and Lost?

Pal Phil posted this book blurb of I'm On LinkedIn, Now What? Here's what he offered:

"'I'm on LinkedIn - Now What???' provides a useful guide for all those looking to better utilize the power of LinkedIn. As Jason writes, LinkedIn is NOT the silver bullet of networking sites; such a site does not exist, and this book does not try to make that point. What this book does incredibly well is show how you CAN use the tool to your advantage; to make connections, to help others, and ultimately, to help yourself! 2 handshakes WAY UP for this great book!"

I must admit that I am on LinkedIn and I haven't a clue how to use it. So, I've done nothing. I respond to the occasional invite (thanks very much) and that's about it.

Can anyone tell me what I should be doing with it (beyond sending my network an occasional email)? Oh, wait, I know, read the book.

By the way, I am not looking to join any other sites, either. I get a few invites for those every week. Life is too short, you know? If I joined any more sites I would be living more in the virtual world than in the real world. I like the real world - it's th only place I can taste great chocolate, hug a dog, and feel the strength of someone's handshake and smile. Maybe one day that will change and the virtual world will be indistinguishable from the real one, but for now I need to reduce, not add to my time online.

That said, since I am already on LinkedIn, it might not be a bad idea to figure out how to use it.

Comments

[Terrence Seamon]

There are many features I ignore, but my favorite is LinkedIn Answers. I use it every day.

I can ask questions and get input from a global audience. And I can weigh in on questions asked by others.

It has been very helpful as a quick market research tool.

Terry

[Lisa Haneberg]

Terry - that's a good suggestion, I have not used the question feature and probably could gain a lot from it. Thanks.