LinkedIn is a great networking tool, whether you’re searching for a new job or just looking for a way to connect with other multifamily professionals. Want to be successful on LinkedIn? Here are five things NOT to do.

Forget to Include a Profile Image

According to Digital Marketing Ramblings, your LinkedIn profile is 11 times more likely to be viewed if you include a photo. Why? Because people want to connect with other people. And if you ask me, this guy doesn’t look like a real person.

If I got a connection request from him, I’d probably ignore it because it might be a fake account or a spammer. Bottom line? Include a photo on your profile. Which leads me to my next “don’t”…

Choose the Wrong Profile Image

LinkedIn is a professional networking site. So, it should go without saying that the photo you choose for your profile should be professional. That means no photos of you and your husband at your wedding, no photos of your new puppy, and no photo of you sipping a margarita on the beach in your swimsuit. Save those photos for Facebook and stick to a professional head shot on LinkedIn.

Fail to Proofread Your Profile

We’re all human and mistakes happen, but a typo on your LinkedIn profile can reflect poorly on you as a professional. Proofread your profile. Then, proofread it again. Get a fresh set of eyes by asking a family member or friend to take a look at your profile, too.

Neglect the “Summary” Portion of Your Profile

Many folks spend the majority of their effort on the “Experience” portion of their LinkedIn profile and neglect the “Summary” section. Don’t make this mistake! The summary is a great opportunity to make a first impression and give folks a snapshot of who you are as a professional.

Send Generic Connection Requests

If you send a request to connect with someone on LinkedIn and don’t personalize the message, the default message they'll receive is:

I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.

- Faith Hinz

I’m terrible with names, so if I see a request from someone whose name I don’t immediately recognize, I'll usually ignore it. Unless the recipient is your best friend, remind her how you know each other. Here’s an example:

What would you add to this list of LinkedIn “don’ts”? Please share in the comments below.