In response to the great comment below:

Ironically, I find the electronics manufacturing industry is be one of the most DISengaged when it comes to taking full advantage of the benefits of social media, including LinkedIn.

As an industry, electronics manufacturing is wrapped in a culture of trade secrecy where competitive advantage is frequently tied to technical prowess and time to market. This environment doesn’t lend itself to the philosophy of sharing and transparency that permeates most productive social networks.

This “close to the vest” culture is frequently reinforced by strict limitations on outward communications, especially with regard to anything that might be construed as a company IP.

I tried mightily to create community within LinkedIn while I was in the PCB industry but even within my own company, it was easier for most industry veterans to fall back into their comfort zone than to embrace the opportunity born of engaging in communities based on sharing and collaboration.

Consequently, you’ll find the most ubiquitous industry presence on LinkedIn, but not because anybody wants to give anything, but just in case they need a job.

**Posted as a response to “Best and Worst LinkedIn Groups for PCB Enthusiasts” by Don Lafferty

Response:

Don,

I agree with you, that the EMS industry is rather disjointed and slow to adopt social media and collaborative tools.  This permeates a majority of the industry, although I would argue that there are some who are more inclined to take advantage of the amazing tools which have been developed in the last ten years.  It seems to me that Small, R&D focused, high technology companies are comprised more and more of individuals who have a much stronger grasp and reliance upon social media.  As young professionals enter the workforce, this trend will continue to develop.

LinkedIn bothers me often, because it does feel like the majority of people involved are there for themselves.  Whether it is to network a new job opportunity, or to sell their products – each person has an underlying motivation for being on LinkedIn.  I too fell into this trap when I first began using the network.  However, if everyone is taking, and no one is giving… you will end up with a stagnant social environment in which few win, and clutter consumes.

What are some of the ways that you sought to create a community on LinkedIn and within your company?  It must be possible to somehow, tactfully, develop a vibrant collaborative community of high-technology professionals who can set the tone for the industry in the fifty years to come.

Others, feel free to comment or to submit responses to me.  My contact information is in the author bio page.