I logged into LinkedIn the other day and sifted through some friend requests.  Then I did the same on Facebook.

While I recognized a person or two there were a few people I didn’t know – some lived in Chicago (where I live), some worked in similar industries, others I didn’t recognize at all.

NONE of them included a personal message or introduction.

?

 

Sending a friend request on LinkedIn or Facebook WITHOUT a personal introduction is like walking into a networking event, passing your business card out to every person in the room and hoping they call you back (without giving them a reason to).  Would you do that?

Here’s how you can help THEM connect with YOU…

IF YOU HAVE MET THE PERSON BEFORE

A simple reminder is always helpful and makes you stand out in their mind.  It takes less than 30 seconds to type something like;

“Hello ___________, we met at (this event, this meeting, etc).  We talked about __________. Thought it would be helpful to connect here on (Facebook/LinkedIn) to stay in touch for networking.”

Of course, if you have a more specific reason to connect – something you’ve talked about at length with that person – remind them!

IF YOU HAVEN’T MET IN PERSON – BUT HAVE A GOOD REASON TO CONNECT

One of the great things about Facebook and LinkedIn is the fact that you have the opportunity to meet new people – everyday.  This can (of course) include potential clients and referral sources; but should also include possible collaborators, mentors, power partners and like-minded people in your field of work or interest.

Let’s say you work in or are passionate about the nonprofit arena and search a social network for people who mention “nonprofit” in their profile.  Reach out – and let them know WHY they should connect with you.  Again, in less than 30 seconds you can say something like:

“Hello _________, I came across your profile and noticed that you work with nonprofits.  I’d like to connect because (I own a nonprofit/I also work with nonprofits/I want to volunteer/etc).”

NOTE: Sometimes Facebook just automatically sends the “friend request” without giving you the option to add a personal message.  If that happens – send that person a message separately with a personal introduction explaining why you sent the friend request.

WARNING:  Transparency and honesty are KEY when it comes to connecting.

  • DON’T just say “I’d like to network with you…” (What does that actually mean?  Do you want to sell them something?  Do you want to work for them?  Do you want to talk about referrals?).
  • DON’T hide your intentions – if you think that person would be a good client for you – tell them that.  If you just want to learn more about their industry and have an idea exchange – tell them that.
  • DO be specific about WHY you want to connect.
  • DO be brief in your personal introduction.  They’ll respond if they want to know more.

Who are you going to reach out to TODAY online – and how are you going to introduce yourself to them?