Good Business

It has come to my attention this week, that LI is not in the business of connecting people, helping you land your dream job (any job?) or networking.

It’s in the business of making money.

The first time I realized that many platforms are not aligned with the purpose they serve but rather with profit, was with the dating apps. They don’t make money if you find your love and leave. Instead, they continue to perpetuate cycles of loneliness and misery, fostering addictive behaviors (notifications for everything) and attention sucks (endless scroll, swipes) that keep you stuck.

This model relies on suppression.

Not only are we fighting suppression from the patriarchy, racism, and capitalism but LI too?! Not seeing the content you want, keeps you there, searching, distracted. Hopeful and hooked.

Take my posts: I am curious how they reportedly get “impressions” from 60% of my connections (large number), yet half the (very few) likes are from people I don’t know, are out of my network and don’t look like real accounts (no profile, less than 100 connections, no original content).

I believe it is possible to be in business, and make money, and do good. Being selective and intentional with your time, attention and offerings is a strength. When we provide customers, clients and communities what they actually want and need, with exceptional service, they come back.

We’ve sidestepped customer service with repressive algorithms.

What are we doing?

• Focus on what you can control.

• Choose where you put your energy.

• Invest in reciprocal partnerships and community. This benefits everyone.

Novel in this late stage capitalism era, huh?

Set up a strategy session and let’s talk about how to achieve your goals.

Need more inspo on doing Great Work, check out what Paul Graham has to say.