LinkedIn vs. Reality
Recently I wrote an email with an open application to a Dutch alternative music platform to offer to write for them on a voluntary basis sometime. “Nothing wrong with experiencing new fields of work on the side, while focussing the majority of my time on my own ideas,” I thought.
After all, I had some minor writing experience and music had been a central theme in my life for years. So I decided to send the email. After it left my outbox, I realized how different I presented myself compared to how I did when I was still active in the field of business.
I don’t know if you recognize situations like this yourself, but for me, it opened my eyes. It felt like I had been subconsciously trying to conform to a standard of online representation for years (mostly on LinkedIn) while ignoring some of the core values that represent my true identity (creativity, music, humor e.g.).
Nothing wrong with LinkedIn
I’m not saying LinkedIn is wrong. Not at all, but I do say that it might not have been the best platform to represent myself. First of all it offers an excellent and effective platform to foster personal- and business representation and/or growth. Additionally, the strong inherent professional culture takes out most of the white noise you encounter on other platforms such as Facebook or Twitter.
On the other hand, I do feel like it might lack the creative freedom to spread thoughts and ideas that potentially could also foster corporate innovation. Honestly this could be a lost opportunity for yourself and for businesses.
Rethink how and where we represent and recruit
If I may, I’d like to make a suggestion to both recruitment professionals and individuals. Although LinkedIn is a good platform with significant benefits, please be aware that there are other interesting platforms out there that might suit your needs better than you might initially realize.
After all, the best place to find a professional photographer might not be LinkedIn, it might be Instagram or Pinterest. The best place to find a graphic designer might not be LinkedIn either, it might be www.behance.net or www.fiverr.com. Lastly, if you’re looking for a-, or trying to become a creative writer, try, how surprisingly, www.medium.com.
