Linkedin Q&A is a great research tool

By Jim Cathcart

As my readers already know, I'm writing my next book "Relationship Intelligence (tm), how to create & grow High-Value Relationships." The subtitle is "It is Who Knows You that really counts!" 

Recently I posted a question to my Linkedin social network connections (I have over 400 of them at present). In order to explore some of the key aspects of this book's message I posed three separate questions to groups of 200, one group got two questions. Within 11 hours (from late one night until just after the start of business the following day) I received 120 replies! 

These weren't just token responses either, they were very thoughtful and intelligent comments. 

The questions I had posed were: 

"What is a Relationship?" (Since everyone tells us to develop them, we need to agree as to what they are.) 

"What are the criteria you use to determine which relationships to cultivate or not?" 

and "What is the most difficult part of developing new relationships for you?" 

Naturally you will see the summaries of their replies in my book and articles over the coming months but I wanted you to see the value of using our Social Networks as research tools. 

Though it is frowned upon to send broadcast marketing messages to your contacts, you are welcomed to send questions and surveys. This can be a good way to not only tap their collective intelligence, but also an indirect way to get your own message out. Give it a try and be sure that it offers value to your contacts or stimulates some useful conversation. 

I'll be exploring even more ways to tap all this wisdom in the marketplace and will keep you posted on my discoveries. Please share yours with me.  

P.S. I'm now the spokesperson for SynergyStreet.com, a network designed especially for entrepreneurs. On September 11, 2008 we will be holding the first Synergy Street Summit in Charlotte, NC. (More to come on that later.) If you are anywhere near Charlotte, please plan to spend the day with us on the 11th. I can promise you an inspiring and information filled experience with lots of extra bonuses as well.