One of the small benefits of living all the way over here in Borneo is the fact that sometimes, just sometimes, we can sit back from current online trend waves and other hot social media must-haves, and just observe politely before deciding whether or not to jump on the proverbial bandwagon.
To be honest, my interest in blogging has waxed and waned. Facebook's still a great option for keeping in touch with my high school and university friends - which was the main reason why I signed up for it back in 2007 in the first place. Sure everyone signs in, posts a statement, has a laugh, sometimes a profound moment, does a spot of lurking, sighs when an ex's photo pops up. You know, those old chestnuts. But truth be told the one site that's been keeping me going back for more lately is none other than LinkedIn.
Don't feel embarrassed if you're not entirely sure about what LinkedIn is. Up till quite recently not many of us did either. But it's high time you brought yourself up to speed.
Dubbed 'the de facto standard in professional networking' by online publication Huliq, LinkedIn's CEO Jeff Weiner has been quoted as stating that users are growing at roughly a rate of one million new members per week, up to as recently as March 2011. That works out to be one new member every second.
Personally, what I most enjoy about this site is its relevancy to my current occupation. It allows me to build and maintain connections with individuals I have worked with before, or plan to work with in the future – all the while ensuring that privacy remains a priority and unwanted contact is not allowed. In an environment that is geared more towards working professionals, this is a factor that is paramount.
Not to be forgotten is the ease and ability for members to network. The ability for such direct contact aids in the widening of scopes and horizons with respect to the possibility of future projects and communication. I personally have joined several groups on this site that allow me to interact in a controlled and (there's that word again) relevant manner with counterparts from other publications around the world. POVs are put on the table and discussed, opinions asked for and received.
But what is LinkedIn good for, and how could it possibly apply to you if, say, you're retired, not currently working or a freelancer? LinkedIn brings with it a good choice of social media user friendly options such as Twitter, Facebook and Typepad decks amongst others for some light-hearted discourse amongst friends. The main crux however goes to work related features such as being able to present a comprehensive portfolio complete with experience listings, educational background and other notable mentions. Users are able to give and receive recommendations based on abilities, achievements and strengths. An online referral if you like.
LinkedIn has been credited with not only strengthening professional ties, but also in assisting with job offers, sourcing projects, raising awareness for existing companies and even starting a brand new business altogether. Case in point is an example listed on LinkedIn's own blog of Barbara Lemaire who was able to identify key benefactors for her non-profit organization which focused on helping homeless women and children. Then there's one Alice Shapiro who, after losing her job, became a published author after getting help from a LinkedIn connection.
Marry all these positive points with ease of use and functions that are regularly being updated and fine-tuned to suit members needs. What we are presented with something that I believe to be a true social media networking site in its best and truest form.
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