Creepy Networking

Creepy Networking Despite all the information available about netiquette and the importance of networking strategically online, I continue to get dozens of   mystery online networking requests. Sometimes the connection is as weak as being a member of the same group (with 50,000 other members) or as bizarre as asking for a face-to-face meeting based on the fact that we reside in the same city.Something strange seems to happen to some people when they network online. Its as if some people think that none of the common rules for building relationships exist. Could you imagine ever saying any of the following things over the phone or in person to someone you dont know?Ive seen you walking down this block in the neighborhood before. Want to meet for coffee?Someone told me we used to work for the same company that employs 20,000 people. Want to chat sometime?I found your number in the phone book. Maybe we have something in common.I heard through the grapevine that you work for a company where I would really like to work. Can you tell me more about what its like to work there?I found you in the 1997 student alumni directory. Im a graduate of the class of 1980. Would you like to compare notes?I know Ive never actually met you before and you have no idea who I am. But someone suggested I say since you are someone I know and trust, I would like to add you to my network. Does that work for you? (Hint: thats verbatim from a LinkedIn template that people seem to use whether they know you or not).You looked like someone I should know so I followed you home, made note of your address and then did a search to find your phone number. Would love to meet formally sometime.I found your name and number written on a cocktail napkin at a local restaurant and I decided to call you. I figured, what do I have to lose?Of course you wouldnt say any of these things! So why do people think this approach will work online? If you are using LinkedIn or other social media tools to connect with others, create aut hentic relationships and recognize that the affinity will grow over time. Even on Twitter where there are generally no gatekeepers for connecting with others, its still advisable to follow the person for awhile and create a supportive and non-threatening dialogue before bringing the relationship face to face.I am a fairly open connector on LinkedIn as well as other social media platforms. But I have to know a little bit about you and why you want to connect before I accept. Isnt that just common sense?For anyone interested in connecting via LinkedIn, you can find me here. Just be sure to tell me how you found me and why you think we should connect.