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Should you remove a LinkedIn connection?
Posted on August 17, 2017 at 3:17 PM |
The most effective networking
relationships are reciprocal. Both individuals gain substantial benefits from
the relationship. Unfortunately, some professionals view networking from one of
two extremes, either they cynically ignore the effort, or they pursue their
goal with Machiavellian tactics. But what of the majority of us that fall
between the extremes? We show up for the dance, but spend a fair amount of time
observing from the sidelines. Of course there is nothing wrong with some
observation. After all, we don’t feel compelled to be on the floor for every
single song. You may even discover that some of your connections do not
actually care for the same music as you do. What then? In most cases I let
those connections linger. Who knows, perhaps circumstances will change and we’ll
find a common beat in the future. But have you ever taken the step to remove a
connection? I know, in today’s politically charged world it feels like unfriending,
unfollowing or unlinking would be a dangerous move. It doesn’t happen often,
but on occasion I have removed connections. I remove connections based on the
following formula: In short, I just don’t feel a high
enough degree of trust to keep moving forward with the relationship. So, how could
a person grow my trust? I know it looks like some type of Pythagorean
Theorem, but it’s not. For me, the key to creating a large trust number is to build
rapport, build credibility, and reduce risk. If all three factors can be
shifted in the right direction my trust is bound to grow. Let’s take a
high-level look at each. Rapport: A relation of
harmony, conformity, accord, or affinity.
We have a sense of shared understanding. · Being contacted appropriately by the method that best
suits the nature of our relationship. · Being treated with respect. · I actually like you. Credibility: You are worthy
of belief or confidence. Your actions
and words are in congruence. · Being offered services or products that are truly relevant
to my desires. · You are transparent in how you deal with me. · You clearly answer my “What’s in it for me” question. Risk: Exposure to
the chance of injury or loss; a hazard or dangerous chance. My safety, security and social capital (reputation)
should not ever be at risk. · What are you
going to do with my personal information? · How do you want
to use my social capital? How does that
benefit me? · How does our relationship
impact my personal brand? I’m guessing each of us approaches our
networking connections from a different perspective, and that’s fine. But if you
are taking time to increase rapport and credibility while decreasing risk I’m
sure the strength of your network is growing like crazy. |
Categories: Leadership, Personal Branding
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