Linkedin

[Amiga500]

Interesting responses, so I suppose a natural follow up question would be how do contractors on here feel about linking up with each other?

I am sure some members would wish to remain anonymous, but for the remainder of members it would seem sensible to keep in touch with those who work in similar fields?

I often come across roles which need to be filled, and I am sure others do too.

P.S. Point in hand, I know someone who is currently looking for a good HTML/DHTML coder for a small band website, I am sure there are a few benched on here?

[zara_backdog]

Had a couple of agents trying to link up with me - obviously to pick off my contacts

They do that anyway - look you up on linkedin so they can reel off a few names you do know to keep you hooked, then ask for some other names/contacts at the same company.

Do like it for finding people I have worked with though.

[Amiga500]

I note that Bill Gates and Steve Jobs are both on there. Bill Gates has 5 (hidden) connections and Steve Jobs has 0 connections.

[Mustang]

how do contractors on here feel about linking up with each other?

Good idea! Why don't you set up a group on LinkedIn and see if anyone joins.

[Mustang]

They do that anyway - look you up on linkedin so they can reel off a few names you do know to keep you hooked, then ask for some other names/contacts at the same company.

Do like it for finding people I have worked with though.

That's why I dont reveal my connections on LinkedIn!!

[NickNick]

Barack Obama is in my network. Will have to see how that works out.

There are a lot of people on there such as Kevin Bacon who disprove the 'six degrees' theory. (he's a 3rd degree contact for me)
http://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinnorwoodbacon

Matt Damon.
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/3/1a2/b48

Sarah Palin is in my network too
http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpalin
But jsut for tulips and giggles.

[Mustang]

In general, I am finding that now I have started to add a good number of connections (over 200) I am getting better use out of it. The new features of travel plans, groups and book lists are a useful tool.

I am however being cautious as to who I add. I have a couple of agents but only ones I trust. I typically dont add anyone that I dont know and preferably only people that I have met several times.

HTH

[The Agents View]

From an Agents perspective it's pretty useful as an ever evolving database in some cases - it helps keep information we have clean.

I like linked in for the people it can put me in touch with - Keep it to your trusted relationships though - otherwise you'll end up with every tom and dick calling your potential end clients......

I guess it's a double edged sword - it can breed opportunity, or it can cause increased competition - just weigh it up.

FYI I've placed about 4 people from contact made through linked in over about 18 months - that's a pretty good return on a free service from my POV.

Cheers
TAV

[moorfield]

Had a couple of agents trying to link up with me - obviously to pick off my contacts

Sounds familiar, I've switched off my contacts list to public view now, funny how the pimps do that also eh?

[thunderlizard]

How do you say you're available?

How do you "tell" your LinkedIn network that you are becoming available, and would quite like to get yourself in contract please-thank-you?