Hey guys! Are you trying to connect with an Expedia Product Manager on LinkedIn or learn more about the role? You've come to the right place! Landing a job at a travel giant like Expedia can be a dream come true for many product folks. LinkedIn is your golden ticket to making those connections and getting the inside scoop. Let's dive into how you can effectively use LinkedIn to connect with Expedia Product Managers, learn about their experiences, and potentially land your dream job. This comprehensive guide will provide you with actionable steps and tips to maximize your LinkedIn presence and engagement.

Why Connect with Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn?

First off, why even bother connecting with Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn? Well, there are tons of reasons! Think of LinkedIn as your professional playground, a place where you can network, learn, and grow. When it comes to product management, especially at a company like Expedia, connecting with the right people can open doors you didn't even know existed.

• Networking Opportunities: Building your professional network is crucial, and LinkedIn makes it super easy. Connecting with Expedia Product Managers expands your network, giving you access to potential mentors, collaborators, and even future job opportunities. Networking isn't just about collecting connections; it's about building genuine relationships. Engaging with their content, participating in discussions, and offering valuable insights can help you stand out and make a lasting impression. Remember, people are more likely to help those they know and respect.
• Learning Industry Insights: Who better to learn from than the people actually doing the job? Expedia Product Managers can provide invaluable insights into the travel industry, product development processes, and the specific challenges and opportunities at Expedia. These insights can be a game-changer for your career. By following their posts and activity, you gain a real-world perspective on the industry trends, product strategies, and company culture at Expedia. This knowledge can significantly enhance your understanding of the product management landscape and help you tailor your skills and experience to meet industry demands.
• Job Opportunities: Obviously, one of the biggest reasons to connect is to explore potential job opportunities. Many companies, including Expedia, post job openings on LinkedIn. Plus, connecting with Expedia Product Managers can give you a heads-up about unadvertised positions or internal opportunities. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers. Actively searching for roles, setting up job alerts, and engaging with company posts can increase your visibility and chances of landing an interview. Don't just apply and wait; be proactive in reaching out to people in your network or at the company to express your interest and learn more about the opportunity.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Finding a mentor in your field can significantly accelerate your career growth. Expedia Product Managers can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your product management journey. Mentorship can provide invaluable perspectives and help you avoid common pitfalls. A mentor can share their experiences, offer constructive feedback, and provide a sounding board for your ideas and challenges. Seek out individuals who have a track record of success and a willingness to invest in your development.

Finding Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn

Alright, so you're convinced connecting with Expedia Product Managers is a good idea. Now, how do you actually find them on LinkedIn? It's easier than you think! LinkedIn has some pretty nifty search features that can help you pinpoint the exact people you're looking for.

• Using the Search Bar: The most straightforward way is to use the LinkedIn search bar. Type in "Product Manager" and "Expedia" (or "Expedia Group") to filter your results. You can further refine your search using filters like location, connections, and industries. LinkedIn's search functionality is robust and allows for precise targeting. Experiment with different keywords and filters to narrow down your search and identify the most relevant profiles. For example, you can search for specific product areas within Expedia, such as "Flights Product Manager" or "Hotels Product Manager."
• Advanced Search Filters: LinkedIn's advanced search filters are your best friend. Click on "All Filters" in the search results page to access options like connections of, location, industry, profile language, and more. These filters help you narrow down your search to find Expedia Product Managers who fit your specific criteria. Advanced filters empower you to target your search based on various criteria, including seniority level, past companies, and skills. This level of precision ensures that you connect with individuals who are most likely to align with your professional interests and goals. Take advantage of these filters to create a highly targeted search strategy.
• Company Page: Head over to Expedia's company page on LinkedIn. Click on the "People" tab to see a list of employees. You can then filter by title or keyword (like "Product Manager") to find the people you're looking for. Company pages are a treasure trove of information and connections. Exploring the "People" tab provides a comprehensive overview of the company's workforce and their roles. This is an excellent way to identify individuals in specific departments or teams and learn about their career paths within the organization. Engaging with company content and following the page can also keep you informed about company news, events, and job opportunities.
• Boolean Search: For the super users out there, Boolean search operators can be a game-changer. Use terms like "AND", "OR", and "NOT" to create complex search queries. For example, try searching for "Product Manager AND Expedia NOT Director" to find managers who aren't directors. Boolean search operators provide a powerful way to refine your search and target specific criteria. By combining keywords with logical operators, you can create highly precise search queries that yield more relevant results. This technique is particularly useful when you have specific requirements or are looking for individuals with a particular skill set or experience.

Crafting the Perfect Connection Request

Okay, you've found some Expedia Product Managers you want to connect with. Now what? Don't just hit that "Connect" button and leave it at that. A personalized connection request can make all the difference. Think of it as your first impression – you want to make it a good one!

• Personalize Your Message: Always, always personalize your connection request. A generic "I'd like to connect" message is likely to get ignored. Mention something specific about their profile, a project they worked on, or an article they shared. Personalization demonstrates that you've taken the time to review their profile and are genuinely interested in connecting. A thoughtful message shows respect for their time and expertise. Referencing a shared connection, a common interest, or a recent accomplishment can create an instant connection and increase the likelihood of your request being accepted.
• Mention Shared Connections or Interests: Do you have any mutual connections? Mention them! Shared connections can create an instant bond. Also, if you have similar interests or are part of the same LinkedIn groups, bring that up too. Shared connections and interests provide a foundation for a meaningful conversation. Highlighting these commonalities in your connection request can make the recipient feel more comfortable and open to connecting. It also suggests that you are likely to have a shared professional network and similar career aspirations.
• Be Clear About Your Intentions: Are you interested in learning more about their role? Looking for mentorship? Be upfront about your intentions (but keep it brief!). Honesty and transparency are always appreciated. Clearly stating your intentions helps the recipient understand your motivation for connecting and allows them to respond appropriately. Whether you are seeking advice, exploring job opportunities, or simply looking to expand your network, being clear about your goals can lead to more productive and mutually beneficial interactions.
• Keep it Concise and Professional: Your connection request should be short and to the point. No one wants to read a novel. Keep your message professional and avoid using overly casual language. Conciseness is key when crafting your connection request. Respect the recipient's time by delivering your message succinctly and professionally. Avoid lengthy introductions or overly detailed explanations. Focus on the essential information and make it easy for the recipient to understand your purpose for connecting.

Engaging with Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn

Connecting is just the first step. The real magic happens when you start engaging with Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn. Think of it as building a relationship – it takes time and effort!

• Comment on Their Posts: If an Expedia Product Manager shares an article or posts an update, leave a thoughtful comment. Show that you're actually reading and engaging with their content. Thoughtful comments demonstrate your interest and expertise and can spark meaningful conversations. Avoid generic comments like "Great post!" Instead, offer your perspective, ask a question, or share a related experience. Engaging with content in a constructive way can help you establish yourself as a knowledgeable and valuable member of the LinkedIn community.
• Share Their Articles: If they've written a great article, share it with your network. This not only helps them but also positions you as someone who shares valuable content. Sharing content is a powerful way to show support and amplify the reach of their work. It also demonstrates your commitment to sharing valuable information with your own network. When you share an article, add your own commentary to provide context and highlight the key takeaways. This not only adds value for your audience but also positions you as a thought leader in your field.
• Join Relevant Groups: LinkedIn groups are a fantastic way to connect with people in your industry. Look for groups related to product management, travel tech, or Expedia specifically. Participating in group discussions can help you build relationships and gain visibility. Joining relevant groups expands your network and provides opportunities to engage with like-minded professionals. Active participation in group discussions can help you establish yourself as a knowledgeable and valuable contributor. Share your insights, ask questions, and offer support to other members to build meaningful connections.
• Send Direct Messages (Sparingly): Once you've built some rapport, you might consider sending a direct message. But do it sparingly! Don't spam people with requests. Use direct messages for specific questions or to express genuine interest in their work. Direct messages are a powerful tool for personalized communication but should be used judiciously. Avoid sending unsolicited messages or generic requests. Instead, focus on building rapport through engagement and only send a direct message when you have a specific question or a genuine interest in their work. Keep your message concise and respectful of their time.

What to Talk About (and What to Avoid)

So you've connected and you're ready to chat. Awesome! But what should you actually talk about? And just as importantly, what should you avoid? Navigating a professional conversation can be tricky, so let's break it down.

• Do: Ask about their experience at Expedia, their career path, or specific projects they've worked on. Show genuine interest in their work and accomplishments. Asking about their experiences and career path demonstrates your genuine interest in their professional journey. It also provides valuable insights into the company culture and the opportunities available at Expedia. Focus your questions on their work, accomplishments, and the challenges they've overcome. This shows that you value their expertise and are eager to learn from their experiences.
• Do: Share your own relevant experiences and skills. This isn't just about asking questions; it's about building a two-way conversation. Sharing your own experiences and skills helps establish your credibility and demonstrates your capabilities. Highlight your accomplishments and relevant experience in a concise and compelling manner. This not only showcases your expertise but also provides a basis for a meaningful conversation and potential collaboration.
• Do: Be respectful of their time. Keep your messages concise and avoid lengthy, rambling conversations. Respecting their time is crucial for building positive relationships. Keep your messages concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy introductions or overly detailed explanations. Focus on the essential information and make it easy for the recipient to understand your purpose for reaching out.
• Avoid: Asking for a job outright. That's a major no-no. Focus on building a relationship first. Asking for a job outright is generally considered inappropriate and can damage your chances of building a genuine connection. Focus on building a relationship first by engaging with their content, participating in discussions, and offering valuable insights. This demonstrates your genuine interest in their work and provides a foundation for a more meaningful conversation about potential opportunities.
• Avoid: Being overly critical or negative. Keep the conversation positive and professional. Maintaining a positive and professional tone is essential for building strong relationships. Avoid expressing overly critical or negative opinions, especially about the company or its products. Focus on constructive feedback and solutions-oriented discussions. This demonstrates your ability to contribute positively to the conversation and positions you as a valuable member of the network.
• Avoid: Sharing confidential information. Keep the conversation focused on general industry trends and experiences. Sharing confidential information is a serious breach of trust and can damage your professional reputation. Keep the conversation focused on general industry trends, experiences, and insights. Avoid discussing proprietary information or sensitive data. This demonstrates your integrity and respect for confidentiality.

Following Up and Maintaining Connections

You've made some great connections and had some engaging conversations. Awesome! But the work doesn't stop there. Maintaining those connections is just as important as making them in the first place.

• Stay in Touch: Don't let your connections go cold. Continue to engage with their content, comment on their posts, and share their articles. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and strengthens your relationships. Staying in touch is crucial for maintaining strong relationships. Continue to engage with their content regularly by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts. This demonstrates your continued interest in their work and keeps you top of mind. Consistent engagement helps build trust and strengthens your connection over time.
• Personalized Messages: Send a personalized message every now and then to check in. Ask how they're doing or share an article you think they'd find interesting. Personalized messages show that you value the relationship and are invested in maintaining the connection. A thoughtful message can go a long way in strengthening your bond. Share relevant articles, offer support, or simply check in to see how they are doing. This demonstrates your genuine interest in their well-being and strengthens your connection on a personal level.
• Remember Important Dates: If you know their birthday or work anniversary, send a quick message to congratulate them. Small gestures can make a big difference. Remembering important dates and sending a quick message is a thoughtful gesture that shows you care. A simple congratulations on their birthday or work anniversary can strengthen your connection and demonstrate your attentiveness. These small gestures can make a big difference in building and maintaining strong relationships.
• Offer Value: Look for ways to help your connections. Can you introduce them to someone in your network? Can you share an article or resource that would be helpful to them? Offering value is a powerful way to strengthen your connections and build goodwill. Look for opportunities to assist your connections by introducing them to relevant contacts, sharing valuable resources, or offering your expertise. Providing value demonstrates your commitment to their success and strengthens your relationship on a professional level.

Level Up Your LinkedIn Profile

Okay, before you go full-throttle connecting with Expedia Product Managers, let's make sure your own LinkedIn profile is looking sharp. Think of your profile as your professional online resume – it's often the first impression you'll make!

• Professional Photo: Use a professional headshot. No selfies or vacation photos, please! A professional headshot conveys credibility and helps you make a strong first impression. Choose a photo that is well-lit, clear, and recent. Dress professionally and maintain a friendly and approachable expression. Avoid selfies, group photos, or images with distractions in the background.
• Compelling Headline: Your headline is prime real estate. Don't just put your job title. Highlight your key skills and accomplishments. A compelling headline is crucial for attracting attention and conveying your value proposition. Instead of simply stating your job title, highlight your key skills, accomplishments, and areas of expertise. Use keywords that are relevant to your industry and target audience. This will help you stand out in search results and make a strong first impression.
• Detailed Summary: Your summary is your chance to tell your story. Highlight your experience, skills, and career goals. Make it engaging and easy to read. Your summary provides an opportunity to showcase your unique value proposition and career aspirations. Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments in a clear and engaging manner. Use a conversational tone and tell your story in a compelling way. Tailor your summary to your target audience and use keywords that are relevant to your industry.
• Showcase Your Experience: List your previous roles and responsibilities. Use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments and quantify your results whenever possible. Showcasing your experience is essential for demonstrating your qualifications and expertise. List your previous roles and responsibilities in detail, highlighting your accomplishments and quantifying your results whenever possible. Use bullet points to make your experience easy to read and digest. Focus on the skills and experience that are most relevant to your career goals.
• Skills and Endorsements: Add relevant skills to your profile and ask your connections to endorse you. Skills and endorsements provide social proof of your capabilities and expertise. Add relevant skills to your profile and ask your connections to endorse you. Endorsements from colleagues and peers add credibility to your profile and demonstrate your skills in a tangible way. Focus on the skills that are most relevant to your industry and career goals.

Final Thoughts

Connecting with Expedia Product Managers on LinkedIn is a fantastic way to network, learn about the industry, and potentially land your dream job. Remember to be genuine, professional, and persistent. Building meaningful connections takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. So get out there, polish up your profile, and start connecting! Good luck, guys! You've got this!

By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively leverage LinkedIn to connect with Expedia Product Managers, expand your professional network, and advance your career goals. Remember, networking is a long-term investment, so stay consistent, engage authentically, and build meaningful relationships. Your next big opportunity might just be a connection away!