Reid has kept that question at the center of his life as he continues to grow LinkedIn into an organization that benefits millions allowing them, as he puts it, to become “sofware entrepreneurs.” He illuminates the fact that the working world is changing making every person “somewhat entrepreneurial” especially when one is looking for a job.

Reid, as he has stated in past articles (I read as many of them as I can) has said that he is still trying to get people to realize the day-to-day benefits of LinkedIn. Well, this article pulls Reid’s vision forward just a little more. For me, I see LinkedIn as much more than a software tool for job seekers. I see it as an integral part of building successful careers, businesses and communities. But, of course, it is also incredibly beneficial to job seekers! Stay tuned!

What a simple concept, but, just like so many companies during the dot.com boom, companies today have what I call an "80′s mentality." They are actually stuck in an old network paradigm of paying for "passive" eyeballs to look at pictures or even video "passively" on a screen, and, then, somehow, miraculously, decide to "actively" go buy whatever the company is selling in their very friendly, fun ad.

Juxtapose the sliding hope of selling those old-fashioned ads, now, to online social networks and communities that create "active" participation where people move from visitors into loyal fans as the site and the people on the site become one of their favorite places to hang out. We have only touched the surface of online communities. If I had my way, these communities would be much more active and even facilitated by experts who further engage the participants through ongoing events—both live and online. I am now engaged with several large organizations helping them build online networks with their customers helping them grow their brands as well as their revenues with a socially responsible focus.

I have also been building my own communities that I use as feeders into other communities. To this end, anyone who wants to visit our online community can join at www.networlding2.org or on LinkedIn if you are socially responsible. These communities bring companies and people who practice the values of making a difference, integrity, innovation and collaboration together to make money while making a difference. The good news now its time for ANYONE and I mean ANYONE who really wants to grow a vibrant company and who is entrepreneurial and has even a small amount of investment capital, to throw his or her hat in the ring. May the best men or women win and, I believe like you do Terry, they will be people like you and me who get social networking and online community building.

Warmest Regards,

Melissa Giovagnoli

Social Media Visionary and Author

www.networlding.com

melissa@networlding.com

The Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Chicago (YNPN Chicago) is a terrific organizations that provides support and resources for young professionals involved in the greater Chicago nonprofit community. 

Each year, YNPN Chicago organizes a large-scale event to celebrate the work of the thousands of young professionals who help bring Chicago’s vibrant nonprofit community to life. This year’s event promises to be their biggest and brightest yet. 

YNPN Chicago’s Fourth Annual Celebration
Please join them on Wednesday, January 31st at the new McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum on Michigan Avenue, as they celebrate all of the hard work achieved in the greater Chicago nonprofit community over the past year.

Date: Wednesday, January 31st
Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
Location: McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum - 435 N. Michigan Ave.

Featured Guest:  Arne Duncan, CEO of Chicago Public Schools
Tickets: $20 at the door (if space is available).

CLICK HERE for more information or to register now.  Membership to YNPN Chicago is free so please share this with your friends and colleagues and we’ll look forward to seeing you on the 31st!