A Big LinkedIn No-No

This is going to be a rather short post, a rant ofI would certainly not even consider a candidate that
sorts about something I've noticed on LinkedIn thatcame to me lying from the start.
is slightly disturbing and what I would consider almostI know that there are misunderstandings. Perhaps,
unethical.you think this person is someone else - common
In the past week I have had several people I do notmistakes, but that is why you should always add a
know try to connect with me on LinkedIn and on thenote to your request to connect. Explain WHY you
invitation they put an untrue connection. Meaning,want to connect with the person so they have a
they said we worked together at ABC company andbetter idea of who you are and how it is beneficial
I never worked there or we're affiliated through XYZfor them to connect with you.
organization and I've never even heard of theWhich leads me to my next point. It is my opinion
organization. People, it is NOT OK to lie about howthat a connection should NOT be all about what YOU
you know someone just to gain a connection oncan get from the person you are requesting to
LinkedIn. First, it is going to put a terrible taste in myconnect to. It should also be about what you can
mouth for that person (if you're lying already thengive or provide the person you are connecting to.
what assumption is that going to lead me to?)Contrary to popular belief this social networking
Secondly, I am going to promptly delete yourshouldn't be all about ME, ME, ME! It should be
request. Be honest about why you want to connect,mutually beneficial - what can you bring to the table
don't just arbitrarily try to connect with anyone.for the other person? Approach and request
Strategically connect and network with those that willconnections based on this and you will be much more
help you in your pursuits (whatever those may be).successful.
Job search or otherwise - as a former hiring manager