Adding Someone on LinkedIn ...Tip: DON'T use the default message!

I once heard someone say: "If you didn't get their business card (updated: "if you don't add them on Linkedin...") then the great conversation you just had might as well have never happened."

Networking is important for so many reasons: it's the top mode through which people find their next job (60% cite networking in finding their current position), it's how we get great advice, ideas, and critical feedback from more experienced individuals, and it's an opportunity to pay it forward by helping friends and family find positions, business partners, or clients.  Business cannot happen without human interaction and relationships, which is why social media tools like LinkedIn are so helpful!

Back in the day, business cards were meticulously organized into binders or a Rolodex.  Within a few years, we might not be using business cards at all!  Either way, it's important to find a method for turning a great chat, a helpful conversation, or a influential introduction into something you can keep track of.

Here are a "best practices" for adding someone on Linkedin:
1)Only add them if you actually MET them.  If you heard someone speak and you thought they did a great job, don't send them a connection request if you didn't even take the time to introduce yourself. I would suggest having a meaningful conversation with someone before adding them.  However, if you plan to get to know them better in the near future and feel the need to add them urgently, at least make sure you have at least been properly introduced.

2)Ask or let them know you'll look for them on Linkedin.  People are more receptive to something that doesn't come as an unexpected surprise.  So, as a conversation comes to a close, I usually try to say something to the effect of: "It was so great speaking with you.  If I think of other questions, would you mind if I reached out to you?  Possibly through Linkedin or email, whichever is easier for you?"

3)When is best to add them?  Remember that when people are really busy, it's all too easy to face and conversation.  I would suggest adding someone in the window of 4-24 hours.  This way you'll be fresh in their mind, and they may be impressed with your initiative in taking the effort to connect with them.

4)The Message.  To leave it? Or change it?  If it's an good friend you see all the time, and you're just now realizing that you're not connected on Linkedin, I'm sure they won't be hurt if you don't personalize the message.  However, for everyone else, I would suggest modifying the message so it doesn't say the generic: "I'd like to add you to my professional network on Linkedin."  Try to include something specific to your conversation: a joke, an insight they shared with you, or something about a friend you have in common.  And most importantly, if you want to keep in touch with them, include a question or "hook" so it will seem comfortable for them to message you or for you to reach out to them in the future.

Important last note:  Linkedin is for keeping track of connections and relationships- it's not the best place for creating new ones.  People are skeptical of an unseen internet friend.  And if you have a question that wasn't answered above, please feel welcome to comment below!

As always, be classy, be kind, and you'll earn the respect you deserve.