Making a good impression online is just as important, if not more, as making a good impression offline. The difference is your online impression is documented and can be reviewed after it happens. To ensure you make a good online impression among your peers in LinkedIn Groups, follow these three easy steps …
1. Follow the rules
Once you become a member of a group, learn what the rules of the group are. These rules could govern what kind of information you share, whether self-promotion is allowed and how you may connect with other members. Knowing the rules eliminates all of the uncertainty about what you should and shouldn’t post, and tells you exactly how to participate in the group.To learn what the rules of a group you’re a member of are, click on the gear icon. Find the “About” section and click on the “Group rules” link. There you will find what you are and are not permitted to post in the group.It’s critical to understand and follow the rules. If you don’t follow the rules, you can be kicked out of the group and develop a bad reputation with other group members.
2. Be a real person
People want to engage with other people, not with brands or companies. So, when participating in groups, use your personal LinkedIn profile, not your company page. The goal is to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field, and you can only do that from your personal page.
Don’t be afraid to be yourself. People are attracted to friendly, authentic people, and that’s as true online as it is in the real world. Be respectful of others and do your best to have an open-mind when participating in discussions.
3. Be Interactive
The best way to earn connections in a group is to truly interact with the other members. Do this by asking questions. A short, simple question can garner lots of responses and create opportunities to engage with others.
Think of the group as a cocktail party. No one likes talking or interacting with the person at the party only talking about him or herself—don’t be that person online. Ask questions and show sincere interest in comments and content from others.
Use these three tips to make a good impression while participating in LinkedIn Groups. Don’t be afraid to actively participate in your chosen groups and share your opinion or act as a devil’s advocate.
