Be as Professional as your Profile

I have already written about the importance of having a polished Linked In profile.  Your profile is an amazing tool to promote yourself professionally.  I hope you took my advice and really showcased your talent and expertise.  Now that your virtual image is something worth taking notice, it’s time to talk about follow-through. 

More online exposure will prompt others to seek you out.  Whether it be for an expert opinion, your assistance on something of common interest or just some general advice, it’s important to always address the inquiry.  Although you may not be able to assist everyone, I think that it’s good practice to at least acknowledge and thank that person for reaching out to you.  Keep in mind, if you don’t have the time to reply, your competition will.

Relationships might start as a simple inquiry but are nurtured through communication.  Keep the lines open, realize that even if something doesn’t seem important to you, it very well may be to the other party and be gracious that you’re the one they contacted.