13/11/2020
I have a clear policy. If anyone sends me an invitation, provided their profile has a photo I accept. Around 75% of these new contacts immediately follow my acceptance with a hard sales pitch for whatever they are selling.
Why do so few Linked-In users understand the etiquette? This behaviour is completely off-putting; it instantly kills off any likelihood of building a relationship. This is how it should work.
You extend an invitation and receive an acceptance. You send a friendly message of welcome. Wait a week then send a slightly longer message including a couple of questions about what they (not you) do for a living - still no pitch!!
Build a relationship based on sympathizing with and addressing their problems. It may take 5 or 6 exchanges but once you have a relationship, you can begin with a soft sell. Don't jump down my throat with an aggressive pitch. I know what you do - it's on your profile.
Anyone who doesn't follow these simple rules doesn't deserve to do any business, but Linked-In must accept some of the responsibility. They should initiate a campaign to educate their users in how to use the facility to best effect. It's in their best interest.
