Although this article refers to LinkedIn, it also applies to any other professional network. That said, I am not aware of any Ghanaian or African network - at least not one of the size and popularity of LinkedIn. In some countries, there are alternatives - eg Xing in Germany, etc...
.
LinkedIn is more than an online CV: it is an #interactive social platform
.
So, how should you #interact with others?
.
1. Do you 'spread the love' #endorsing your connections' skills?
Start with a gesture of kindness and endorse someone's skills. Even endorsing someone for let's say 'Nuclear Physics', will not get him/her a job just because s/he has 1000 recommendations for that, but LinkedIn's algorithm will make his/her profile appear possibly on the top of all search results for 'Nuclear Physics' in that country... Ok, it's a silly example, but I trust that you got the point. No one takes these recommendations seriously - we all know that you can get several of your colleagues to endorse you.
And these endorsements are free - it costs nothing to show some kindness!
.
2. #Thanking everyone #congratulating you on your birthday/promotion?
If people took the time to wish you Happy Birthday or Congratulations for a promotion or graduation, how difficult is it for you to thank them?
.
2a. #Wish others Happy Birthday or Congratulation for a promotion or graduation.
Your LinkedIn feed contains all that info and gets constantly updated, please.
Also, people like to be wished well or congratulated in public - for sure, I do please.
.
3. Do you #write #honest and #meaningful #recommendations?
Sorry but we recruiters, we can instantly spot #fake recommendations.
And a fake or irrelevant recommendation destroys instantly your image and hurts your credibility in general.
.
4. Are you adding #comments / your #opinions on your connections' posts?
Ideally, comments that #promote #conversations?
It is a pleasant surprise for the author - everyone wants their posts to be successful.
Also, it feels caring to see someone commenting constructively on your posts and slowly it does create a natural connection and sense of comradery!
.
5. Do you write #LinkedIn #Articles and use them to start conversations?
Besides creating a positive image and slowly the perception of credibility, it makes you appear more approachable and open to conversation.
.
6. Do you #share #relevant #content and #how_often?
Again, it's about creating credibility and a notion of you been approachable.
.
7. Are you using normal or textbook #English'?
Sometimes I read sentences like: 'I like to work for a reputable company' and I am wondering is there someone who wants otherwise?
Use simple daily English and try not to impress others- communication is about been understood, please!!
Also just typing a 'Hi' and nothing else at all, especially to someone that you don't even know, it is not normal communication- it can be seen as borderline weird!
.
8. Do you use that #3rd-person form in your summary and other sentences?
I am very aware that a lot of books and websites and outdated experts suggest it, but please do not do it- it's creepy!!
.
9. Are you an #advocate of your employers?
How frequently do you connect or hire people endlessly complaining about their employer?
Think about it, please.
.
10. Are you really #warm and #welcoming to all your current + future connections?
Sometimes our tone can be very polite and friendly but not welcoming. Make it a habit to always reread any text before sending it out and think whether it can be misperceived and how?
.
.
In Conclusion
Try working through these suggestions -one at a time
You only need a few minutes over a coffee or lunch break or in the evenings
.
You might be amazed the difference it can make to both you and your business.
.
#Good Luck
Irene
About the Author: Irene Gloria Addison is the owner of HIREghana [Human Intelligence Recruitment], a niche HRM Consultancy and a Leader Ghanaian Recruitment Agency and Executive Search firm, based in Accra.
Irene welcomes your feedback/ comments/ remarks/ suggestions via your email message to Press [at ] HIREgh.com. HIREghana can be reached at +233 50 228 5155
Our website is https://www.hiregh.com
© 2020 Irene Gloria Addison and © 2020 Human Intelligence Recruitment