Do They Really Think This is Networking?

The LinkedIn invitation came with the standard header: Invitation to Connect. I didn't recognize the name, but I opened the invite out of curiosity. Here's the entire text of the message:
I know you know a lot of people that have been impacted by the economy and are keeping their options open to making some extra money part time. I would enjoy the opportunity to introduce myself and share with you what I am doing to see if it is a good fit for anyone you know!
I didn't respond. But if I was going to, here's what I would say to Mr. Bad Networker:
Yes, I do know a lot of people because I've worked hard at getting to know them, earning their trust, and building a relationship with them. I'm not ready to throw that all away for your benefit. You didn't even pretend to be interested in helping me.

And of course you would enjoy the opportunity to introduce yourself, but what about me? Would I enjoy being used as your sales tool? Do you really think I value my relationships so little that I'm seriously going to introduce you to them?

I have some credibility to maintain so I can't imagine myself listening to your sales pitch and then giving you contact information for my network. How would I introduce you? I would have to say, "Hey Bob, I just met this person. They have no interest in me personally but they would very much like to make money off of you. How about giving them your time? And bring your Rolodex, I'm sure they'll want to be introduced to your friends."

If you want to sell to people rather than engage in real networking, knock yourself out ... but don't involve me.
What would you say to them?

One Last Networking Lesson from MJ

Jackie Collins was the guest on the Dennis Miller show earlier this week. Of course, the conversation turned toward Michael Jackson. Dennis asked Jackie if she was friends with Michael. She said they didn't see each other more than a few times, but she very clearly remembered the first time they met.

Jackie was attending a big Hollywood party, full of major stars, at a very large mansion. While she mixed and mingled, the hostess approached her and asked for a favor.

Apparently Michael Jackson has arrived, but was out front with a full-blown case of shyness. The hostess thought that Jackie would be able to talk him into coming into the party. Jackie went out and Michael was outside, nervous and worried about meeting people like Sean Connery. "What would I say to them? What would they think of me?" he told her.

Jackie Collins, in her sophisticated British accent, laughed and said she told him he was a bigger star than any of them. He eventually did go into the party and had a wonderful time.

So the next time you're feeling shy about entering a party, remember how a great entertainer like Michael Jackson felt that way. Take a deep breath and enter the room like you're as big a star as anyone. I'm no Jackie Collins, but you might thank me anyway.