And though the LinkedIn profile would seem pretty straight forward at first glance, most users quickly discover that they don't really know what to do with it. The quickly become unsure of what kind of information to put in their profile or how to deliver that information effectively.

One of the biggest problems users encounter is that they simply don't have a clue how to network in this unique online environment. Their efforts are further complicated by LinkedIn rules set up to protect users from abuse which make networking more difficult.

The most significant rule being that you aren't supposed to invite anyone to connect with you unless you know them. This leaves most LinkedIn newcomers at a quandary as to how they can build their network and meet new people that will help them attain their goals and objectives.

Then there are also some very unsuspecting traps an innocent user can fall victim to. For example, LinkedIn provides the means to upload the existing contacts from your computer and other accounts you have around the web such as Yahoo, Facebook, and others.

Once uploaded, the system then invites you to send these people invitations to connect with you on LinkedIn. It seems perfectly logical, but when you do this, you will likely get slapped with "I don't know you" (IDKs) from many of these people.

This occurs because we all have numerous "casual" contacts in our databases and on the other social media accounts. When invited, these people don't always remember who you are. When they receive the unsolicited invitation and don't recognize your name many will treat is as SPAM and slap you with the dreaded "IDK" (I don't know you). Unfortunately, you only need a few of these IDKs and your account can be restricted from inviting anyone at all.

Finally, most of the information on using LinkedIn, including LinkedIn's own Help Menus, trainings, and books all focus on "using" the system and hopelessly void of tactics and strategies aimed at brining you to opportunity.

The key to succeeding on LinkedIn is the proper application of networking, sales, and marketing strategies that conform to the rules and socially acceptable practices of the LinkedIn system.

For example, though LinkedIn states you aren't supposed to invite people that you don't know using their invitation system, there are many acceptable ways to engage others and get them to join your network that have no risk.

Additionally, understanding simple and easy ways to build the value of the connections you have, or use them to help you engage others is also a skill not taught in the user manuals and books currently out on the subject. Understanding how to answer questions, not the answer to the question, but the networking, relationship building, and business development aspects can be very valuable.

For an example of a specific strategy of this type see the short video I put on YouTube in which I discuss how to leverage the Question and Answer forum to promote your own assets such as a website or blog: Link: Click to see video