What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a professional networking site aimed at interconnecting professionals in various fields from around the world.

According to LinkedIn's press page, LinkedIn's mission is to "connect the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful." LinkedIn believes that in a global connected economy, one's success as a professional and one's competitiveness as a company depends upon faster access to insight and resources that can be trusted.

Joining LinkedIn involves creating a profile that summarizes your expertise and accomplishments. Connections may be formed by inviting contacts to join LinkedIn or by inviting contacts with a pre-existing LinkedIn account to join your network. Your network in LinkedIn consists of your connections, your connection's connections and the people they know.

Concerns for Parents

• This site is directed mainly at adults and professionals. However, this can be a valuable tool to help teenagers find jobs. Misuse, however, can damage one's professional reputation.

• As with other social networking sites, fake accounts are often setup and people often post links to sites with viruses and other forms of malware.

How Can I Keep My Child Safe?

• As with any social network, social maturity is important. Avoid contact with people you do not know, and avoid clicking on or using anything that looks suspicious.

• Teach your child what is appropriate to post online. It can be dangerous to post personal information such as phone numbers and addresses. Make sure that your child knows not to post information that should be kept private.

• If you feel the need, block the site from your computer.