When I was 11 years old I ran in the Utica Boilermaker road race for the first time. This 15K event was by far the longest race I had attempted. With my father’s help, I trained for the race for several months, gradually extending my endurance to the appropriate level. On race day, I was able to overcome searing July sun and finish the race, only walking once through a water station around the 6 mile mark.
As with any milestone achievement, my family was very proud and congratulatory. Most of my friends were as well. However, I can recall a couple of friends saying “You ran almost 10 miles in July? Why would anyone do that?” At some point over the weekend, I will surpass 1,000 LinkedIn connections. Most of my colleagues will be impressed, but I am sure a few will ask “Why bother?” – here are the top 5 reasons:
- I communicate and interact with clients
- I am contacted by prospects regularly
- I discover new suspects
- I receive employment opportunities
- I learn about industry updates quickly
Each new connection expands my reach and improves the valued derived from LinkedIn in all 5 of the above areas. Plus, accumulating connections is much easier than running over a hilly 15K course in the summer sun.
Originally Posted on September 21, 2012 by John Scranton