LinkedIn is a relatively “closed” social network – “closed” in that you have to be somewhat active to get the most out of the network. While it is possible to see someone’s online resume without being logged in, LinkedIn is most useful when you see his or her connections and references.

How LinkedIn works..
According to LinkedIn, you should only link to people you know and trust. That way, other clients and contacts will have more trust in that person and your other resources based on your opinion.  However, you can utilize your connections to introduce you to knew connections, and by LinkedIn partnering with resources such as Businessweek, its now even easier for you to find out who’s doing what – and who their connections are.

…In the real world.
Most just try to connect with as many people as possible. For someone trying to reach an audience of potential employers, they want to make as many connections as they can to become that much closer to someone who may be looking for their services in the future.

Dream Success!

If you’re going to begin socially networking online, you mind as well do it productively.  “Productively”, that scarey word that requires you to set goals and objectives, and then continue to monitor the progress and outcome to best analyze the results of your efforts. In addition to your SNAPs (Social Networking Account Procedures), you'll also want to monitor your SNAGs (Social Networking Account Goals). 

The initial goals of all social networking efforts should be the following:

        1.    Reach Customers & Colleagues Directly
        2.    Drive Awareness
        3.    Listen to Community
        4.    Respond Quickly to a Crisis
        5.    Connect Service Teams with Customers to Build a better Service/Marketing                         Campaign

Of course there’s always room for more...

What is a Maven?  The wikipedia describes a Maven as “a trusted expert in a particular field, who seeks to pass knowledge on to others.”  Although Mavens do a good job of persuading people, their primary goal is not to persuade their audience but rather educate and help their audience. 

What is a Connector?  The wikipedia describes a Connector as “people in a community who know large numbers of people and who are in the habit of making introductions. Connectors usually know people across an array of social, planes, cultural, professional, and economic circles, and make a habit of introducing people who work or live in different circles.”

Finding and obtaining Mavens and Connectors is a critical part of Damage Control and Word of Mouth Marketing. Word of Mouth Marketing requires Connectors.  Damage Control requires Mavens. It begins when one of those friends tells a Connector or a Maven, and then takes watch as  the message spreads all across the internet.