Journalists search LinkedIn for ideas, topics, trends—and dirt

If you have a profile on LinkedIn, don’t be surprised if a journalist calls and says she found you there.

Could be she’s an investigative reporter who’s digging up dirt on your former employer. Or maybe she’s just looking for story ideas, did a search at the site and your profile popped up.

Check out 10 Ways Journalists Can Use LinkedIn by Boston Globe columnist Penelope Trunk.

When a journalist does call, remember the many ways you can start to establish the relationship, from asking simple questions like “What other kinds of souces are you looking for?” to this simple question that all journalists love: “How can I help you?” (See Special Report #49: 17 Ways to Build Valuable Relationships with Media People.“)