LinkedIn is used for primarily for business contacts and professional networking. Still, it can be problematic for therapists. This post will discuss the possible pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Because LinkedIn is used primarily for business networking, in general it is less problematic than Twitter or Facebook. However, that doesn’t mean therapists can’t get themselves into trouble. For example, even some LinkedIn experts recommend you add some personal information to your profile, so that it seems friendlier. This is not appropriate for therapists, for all of the reasons explained in previous posts. Therefore, it is recommended that you only post professional information on LinkedIn. Save the cute puppy photos for your personal Facebook profile.
It is important to note that all LinkedIn profiles are public. In this way, they are similar to Facebook business pages. However, unlike a Facebook business page, engagement via LinkedIn is a two-way street. In the LinkedIn world “connection requests” can be sent. If accepted, then a “connection” is made.
Depending on the interpretation of this online relationship, this could be construed as establishing a business relationship. There are two different sorts of culture within LinkedIn. The first are called LIONs (LinkedIn Open Networkers). LIONs believe that the more connections they have, the better. Their networking philosophy is to cast a wide net and get lots of exposure. The second culture is more exclusive. These people will only connect to those they know personally, and tend to have far fewer connections than LIONs. Therefore, when using LinkedIn, be cautious about approving connection requests from current or former clients, as a dual relationship could be inferred as defined by the ACA ethics codes. Even if you are a LION, clients may not understand what this means. And, just as with the Facebook business page, it is recommended not to initiate connections with past or current clients.
Lastly, updates may be posted to LinkedIn, which will be viewed by all of your connections. As mentioned previously, take care to post only relevant, accurate and carefully worded opinion, as each time you post you are contributing to your electronic footprint. And electronic footprints are forever.
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Barbara LoFrisco
