What is a Linked in LION?

Linked In is a professional networking site which is devoted to connecting professionals within the same field and forming alliances across multiple industries. When searching through or browsing names on Linked In, you may come across users with the word "LION" in their name or in their profile description. This does not mean that they have an affinity for large, furry cats. The word LION is an acronym for "Linked In Open Networker." What does this term mean and how is it to be used?

An Open Networker is someone who does not limit their connections through a networking site. Using Linked In, you can connect with people you know who will confirm the connection or you can be introduced through a "network" connection. A network connection is someone who is in your network because they are a connection of one of your own connections. Sound confusing? Let's use an example.

Let's say that you are professionally connected with three people: Tom, Dick and Harry. You only have three connections in your direct network. However, Tom is connected with five people: Mary, Sally, Nina, Vicky and you. Mary, Sally, Nina and Vicky are all in your network (because they are connected to Tom), even though they are not directly connected to you. You can get introduced to all four of them through Tom and professional connections can be established in this manner.

Some people only connect with people they already know. Others only connect with people who are within their network, someone who they share a connection with. And still others connect with complete strangers and anyone who sends them an invitation, regardless of who they are. This last group is known as Open Networkers. They respond affirmatively to all invitations sent to them, even if they do not know the person. In this manner, they facilitate communication and connection building across great distances and a variety of industries.

Although Open Networkers love to connect with and meet new people, it should be stated that Linked In frowns on spamming to such an extent that you should send invitations to people with whom you are already connected: in other words, someone in your network. Sending invitations to strangers is discouraged and, if enough of them respond negatively to your invitations, can result in your account being suspended. I am a LION. If you would like to see an example of a LION account, click here.