LinkedIn Users: Susan RoAne, Professional Speaker and Author
Starting this week, we'd like to shine the spotlight on our users, giving them a chance to recount their thoughts on how LinkedIn has impacted their professional lives. This week we have Susan RoAne, professional speaker and author of "How to work a Room: The secrets of savvy networking". Susan's been quoted in many business journals ranging from Forbes & Business Week to the New York Times (subscription required). Also, check out Susan's "Top 10 tips on Schmoozing" that she contributed on Guy Kawasaki's blog (Here's part 1).
Well, here is Susan RoAne's LinkedIn Experience:
When Konstantin Guericke, a LinkedIn co-founder, first explained how LinkedIn enhances our personal and contacts and adds another level to the connection, I was skeptical. After all, wasn't I the savvy networking guru? But, after a few months of reading a bit and byte here and there about LinkedIn, I knew it was time and connected with Konstantin. In fact, I mentioned LinkedIn in my last two books because of its impact.
Interestingly enough, some of the people I invited to join me, ignored my invite in those days. I find it interesting that some of them have now (several years later) sent me invites. They finally saw the light of being LinkedIn.
One of the best aspects for me, is going to my network to ask a question, knowing that these people will respond with information if they have it. What is also fun for me is to visit the Answers section and go through questions. If there is something I know or know someone who does, I take the time to address the question and this has led to my strengthening loose ties. LinkedIn allows for old school manners and as
well as connecting in the new school style. That really is the essence of networking: sharing ideas and information and having a resource network to approach when I am stumped.
The last joy of LinkedIn for me is reconnecting with old friends. Out of the blue, someone from my past business life appears in my Inbox and it is a fun "you never know" moment as if I had bumped into them at an airport. I never just accept an invitation but also send an email to truly re-establish the contact, connection and some communication.
As a speaker who addresses corporations and conventions, I feel good, smart and savvy to know that I am LinkedIn on more levels than I ever imagined.