WHAT LINKEDIN IS

Why LinkedIn?

When I first heard about LinkedIn , it was in 2022, and in an unappealing way. I came across a post that talked about how everyone on LinkedIn seemed to be a “big person.” One comment said, “You’ll meet someone who says, ‘I serve as a trusted intermediary, offering convenient and accessible services like cash deposits, withdrawals, e-transactions, and helping bridge the gap between traditional banking…,’” only to realize they’re just a momo vendor by the roadside.

I laughed at that particular comment and it stuck with me because I was working as a momo vendor at the time. Others also commented on how people have made everything a lesson, like what happened when they crossed a road or how they swallowed banku in a modern way.

I heard of LinkedIn when it was 20 years since its launch. Two years later, after teachings and observing how it works, this is what LinkedIn looks like to me. But before I tell you, let me take you to a party.

In 2023, I attended a birthday party for my aunt, who lives in the States but decided to celebrate her 50th birthday in Ghana. It was strictly by invitation. She asked her siblings to come with their children and that's how I got the chance to be there that day.

The theme was gold and white, and for the first time in my life, I found myself at a luxurious party in a high-end hotel. The people, the decor, and the reception were all what only I saw on the media and knew they exist. 

At one table, there were several people, both young and old, their appearance did the introductions without them talking , from their gold neck jewelries to their, white dresses that looked like fresh palm wine. The MCs kept saying, “There are a lot of destiny changers here; don’t leave without networking!” I watched as people had fun and “linked up”

What caught my attention was when my aunt’s daughters were introduced at that table. They had expressions with eyes and smiles that I believe was, “Oh wow! You work there? Interesting!” or “You school there? Amazing!”. Their words slipped off their tongue like it was made of okro, and energy exuded confidence. They exchanged contacts and encouraged their children to connect.

I sat quietly among my people, just admiring the scene. The elegance of their outfits, their beautiful smiles displaying a beautiful set of teeth that almost matched their white dresses, it felt like we were in a different world in the same room.But for me, what mattered most was that I was there, breathing the same air as everyone else, and grateful for a big 50.

When I stepped out, I noticed a couple of people networking. At the time, it didn’t mean much. It was just a party and a poor girl being wowed by luxury. But in 2024, after attending two educational sessions about LinkedIn, it all started to make sense.

That’s what LinkedIn is,making a gold-and-white party for everyone, not just limited to invitations, where people are introduced, linked In, and opportunities are created, not just for people at a particular table but for everyone. Sometimes, it’s not about how fancy your “outfit” (profile) is but about being present, breathing the same air, and ready to observe, learn, and connect.

However, other times too,it's about just how good your "outfit"(profile) is, so present yourself in the best way possible, write that compelling summary about yourself, use that word,share that story and make your profile appealing.

LinkedIn has bridged the gap. Aspiring, young and upcoming professionals to connect with the experienced ones and learn from them and vice versa. 

LinkedIn has open door, for you to connect even if you can't attend a seminar limited to only men in suit, you get the chance to read,connect and link up. 

So if you choke whilst gulping water and realised sipping is the best and safest way, share and let the world hear, you are saving a thirsty man from dying,not from the thirst, but from the water that is supposed to quench his thirst. 

Happy New Year