Hello SBC members.  What is your opinion on joining LinkedIn Open Networks?  Is this considered a negative by LinkedIn or other Social Media?

@dongrandy

Not a fan of the badge, even though I practice it a bit.

Let me explain:

I will accept invitations from almost anyone on LI who reaches out. (Exceptions include people w/o headshots–although that’s not a deal breaker–people w/zero connections already, and these days, people who I know I’ll never have a business relationship with for one reason or another.)

However, that Open Networks badge? This is a personal opinion, but it smacks of desperation, like #teamfollowback on Twitter.

That badge says, “I have no barrier to entry and I want to be friends w/everyone.” 

I don’t think that’s the kind of message you want to be sending.

Exceptions would be made for professional networkers, head hunters, and executive directors of membership orgs, where that’s part of your job description.

That being said, I’m “therichbrooks” on LI, so feel free to reach out to me there. Just don’t go looking for my badge.

Thanks for the feedback everyone, much appreciated