I searched this topic before posting this thread but previous messages were inconclusive.

What is it about having a LinkedIn profile that providers deem it necessary to have one to screen potential clients? When did having references alone become passé?

I work in a non-LE NYC agency and am close to retirement age so having an account on LinkedIn isn’t something I need in my professional life.

It’s probably easy enough to join and create a profile, but does LinkedIn ask for confirmation of employment and education, or is my word enough?

Has anyone else without a LinkedIn profile been denied access to someone they desired to meet?

Honestly, it takes less than 10 minutes to create a profile. Fill out your education and current job and then connect to some colleagues. Even if it's just a few, it means real people vouch for you.