I raised a question on Twitter earlier regarding random Linkedin invitation requests from people that you don't really know. (click here to see responses) It's annoying when I click on the email notification of a new request, only to find a person I don't know, with the generic message:
Julia,
I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.
- xxx (first name of person I don't know)
Don't get me wrong... I like connecting with people I hardly know through the soc. nets.! What better way to start a real relationship, by starting with a virtual one.
But tell me how I know you! Same thing goes with Facebook. If we have no friends in common, tell me how you found me. Even a simple "I was searching and found your blog and clicked through to your fb profile, let's be friends!" Oh, and I can't wait until Twitter builds in a "people you follow that this person also follows" feature, so that I can better understand where my new followers are coming from too.
Go ahead, connect with me, but give me some context so I can know you better!