INterestingly, I revisited linkedin today and found it an improvement that I didn't have to look at the boilerplate text and/or update it to send a request.
I don't send requests to people who won't recognize me, so I much prefer avoiding the extra step when 'connecting'.
That said, I still haven't found a meaningful, practical use for LinkedIn. So far it just nets me self-styled ninja recruiters haranguing me based on keyword searches, which is just irritating.
I deal with a lot of people external to my company, so LinkedIn is a gold mine for me. Since it also takes a reminder for folks to remember me, I do like typing in some text. I also appreciate it when others return the favor.
I got 3/4 offers on my last job hunt through past co-workers that re-opened communication on LinkedIn. The 4th offer was through a recruiter who contacted me on linked in.
That's what LinkedIn is for, really. I don't know how people find tech jobs without it. Apply? Hah
I'd disagree that in-person networking is superior for most. Many are much more comfortable making those positive first impressions online because they are less comfortable in face-to-face settings. Thankfully, by the time they are required to meet with others, they already have gained some points through their online interactions.
The need to physically meet people has become much less important, and reputation seems to be the difference. There are probably hundreds of people on HN who have received work from people before meeting them live, and perhaps were even referred by people they've never met live.
> It's a removed form though. In person networking is far superior.
Agreed. Honestly, I wasn't even familiar with the idea that someone would even consider adding someone on LinkedIn who they hadn't already met in person. LinkedIn is just a useful addition to that in person meeting.
People don't find tech jobs, tech jobs find you. If your resume or email address is online and even vaguely associated with the chance that you might developer, your inbox gets flooded with recruiter spam.
The last time I was looking for work, LinkedIn was useful. I heard of a company that sounded like a good match. LinkedIn found a 2nd-level connection working there, and an interview resulted.
I don't send requests to people who won't recognize me, so I much prefer avoiding the extra step when 'connecting'.
That said, I still haven't found a meaningful, practical use for LinkedIn. So far it just nets me self-styled ninja recruiters haranguing me based on keyword searches, which is just irritating.