If you want to read a fascinating and very practical explanation of the usefulness of LinkedIn, I recommend John W. Parkers' blog entry below.
First, he explains why you might want to join and use Linkedin; and
Second, he explains how to best take the steps necessary, since the Help pages on LinkedIn are a little technical.
http://s92443876.onlinehome.us/MT/ke...es/001865.html
I hope that some of you will find this helpful.