I suspect a professional virtual world is inevitable. Whether it’s what we think of currently (e.g., Second Life), I’m not sure. I do think we’ll see dramatically improved video teleconferencing, etc. which will facilitate virtual meetings, and eventually obviate the need for a fair amount of business travel. I’m on the fence about InMail and the barriers at LinkedIn. I like to keep a rather fluid, open network but understand both the business and relational case for the existing system.

Best,
Matt

I was wondering what you think about LinkedIn’s InMail feature? I see a few major points here:

1. This is a great revenue stream for LinkedIn as there are many members who will pay to be able to reach out beyond their network

2. This adds to the privacy of people profiles and raises value to each InMail sent because you only get a limited amount, so you won’t send them out randomly and will only send it to people you truly want to meet.

3. However, I feel that this really limits peoples ability to meet people beyond their current network.

I feel that there is a big opportunity for virtual worlds in a professional environment. In virtual worlds, the barrier to meet people significantly decreases because when you meet someone through an avatar, it is like you’re meeting them in person - and it is fun as well. Do you feel the professional community would be open to a professional virtual world?

Best,

Jun Loayza
http://www.junloayza.com