LinkedIn is a social networking platform designed for professionals. Although its use can be of merit to quite a few people, there are some situations where LinkedIn can work against you, rather than for you. Insurance agents may see LinkedIn as a great way to attract and connect with other people, but unless it is an insurance agent platform, participation could become problematic. Here are 10 people you should NOT connect with on LinkedIn:
1. Salespeople
There are a number of people on LinkedIn who use it to sell something. Whether they use it to find insurance leads, sell homeowners insurance, or promote something, these are individuals who have no desire to network.
2. Recruiters
Although some people have made very good connections with recruiters, if you are not looking for a job, steer clear of these individuals.
3. Human Resource professionals
An HR professional may operate just like a recruiter, and you want to keep your interactions with them very low.
4. People with no profile picture
There are quite a few people who have no profile picture, but it sends a negative connotation. What are they trying to hide? If this is a professional networking site, a profile picture should be the first thing you see. Read more about how to create the perfect LinkedIn Page here.
5. Individuals who have a lot of connections but no interactions
Just because someone has a lot of connections does not mean they are doing something to warrant them. Take a minute to look at their profile to determine if they troll for connections, or if they really have something of value to add.
6. Individuals with no commonalities
Everyone in your circle should have at least one thing in common. If the people who request you have no commonalities, this would not work well for you.
7. Individuals who are not good networkers
The purpose of LinkedIn is to network. How well does someone who requests you operate as a networker? Make sure this connection would work on your behalf. Click here to read about the 5 worst things you can do on LinkedIn.
8. Individuals who hide their connections
Individuals who hide their connections are not really serious about networking. The purpose is to build your networking portfolio. Stay away from these hidden profiles.
9. Strangers who send a general invite
Individuals who send general invites and whom you don't know, nor have any connections with, should send a red flag your way.
10. Individuals who have fake accounts
Yes, fake accounts do exist. Steer clear of these types of people.
Using LinkedIn effectively is critical when networking and using professional content makes it easier. For example, writing an article on home insurance in Florida or other engaging material can work in your favor when trying to find complimentary connections. LinkedIn is a highly effective platform that works for insurance agents and will provide the professional connections you need to build your business.
Learn how to create the perfect LinkedIn page here:
