Social etiquette should not change in the digital space.

There are a lot of blogs out there advising how to use LinkedIn properly – from how to create the perfect profile to what types of content to post.

However, I want to focus on the things you shouldn’t be doing on LinkedIn in order to network and build connections effectively.

In some ways, knowing what not to do is more important as it will prevent you from making mistakes for the entire platform to see. 

Here are 5 things you should not be doing on LinkedIn to ensure your brand is being presented in the best possible light.

Don’t Forget What LinkedIn Is

Yeah LinkedIn is a professional platform, but it’s still a social media site.

It’s no longer about copying your CV in the hope that someone will reach out to you.

Now, like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, LinkedIn is all about interacting with others, sharing content, reacting to others’ posts and more.

And so, don’t forget what LinkedIn actually is and use it how it’s intended – socially.

However, keep in mind that although the platform is more casual now, you should always stick with an underlying professional tone.

Don’t Have an Incomplete Profile

Regardless of what you intend to use LinkedIn for, you must build and complete all sections of your profile.

At the same time, it shouldn’t just be a quick job either; not paying attention could result in silly spelling and grammar mistakes which won’t read well at all.

Think about it, if you come across 2 profiles (in the same industry), one is concise, personal and informative and the other has typos and is way too long – which one would you choose?

Probably not the latter, so don’t be that person!

Also, many people lose potential business or other opportunities all because they’ve not included contact information on their profile – sounds basic, I know!

Don’t Send Lazy Invitations

Never send a generic LinkedIn invitation without personalising the message.

So, don’t be lazy when it comes to sending out a new connection request.

Ask yourself, why you want to connect and briefly explain this in your invitation – it could be as simple as letting them know you enjoyed their recent post, for example.

Moreover, scan their profile and try to find some common ground – perhaps you attended the same university.

As long as you reference why you are trying to connect, this will go a long way over sending a generic “I’d like to add you to my professional network” invite.

For more tips on how to write a personalised LinkedIn invitation, check our previous blog here.

Don’t Send Random Endorsements/Recommendations

LinkedIn is great to build credibility, especially by receiving recommendations and endorsements as it lets other people speak for you about your professional skills.

At the end of the day, who doesn’t want good things said about them?

But, you shouldn’t send or request endorsements or recommendations to people you don’t know – especially if you’re only doing it for the favour to be returned.

Because, let’s say you have to work with them in the future – it’s only going to leave a bad first impression.

Furthermore, sending random recommendations or endorsements could result in your account being reported as spam, so play it safe and don’t be dishonest.

Don’t Ignore Your Inbox

If you’re new to LinkedIn, you’ve probably forgotten that you even have an inbox because of the lack of messages you receive, or you’ve learnt to ignore your inbox because you receive too many automated messages for annoying marketing bots.

But by ignoring your inbox you could miss a key opportunity that you wouldn’t be able to get hold of anywhere else.

For instance, clients on a smaller scale may be reaching out to you to learn more about your business – but if you ignore your inbox then you’ll miss out their message and the opportunity they present to you.

Final Words

Even though the above points may seem obvious, these are still undesired behaviours that should be avoided.

Consider what you would want to see on the platform, respect this and do the same.

Happy networking!

Check our LinkedIn Lead Generation service in the meantime.