I agree with LinkedIn, it is not about connecting with anyone or connecting for the sake of connecting. I also don’t agree that all connections have to exclusively be with people you know. There is a “gray” space that we all have to be mindful of and how to make that grey space work! This is how you build your professional network.
The grey space represents those professionals you should know on a professional basis because of a common connection link (interest, academic, professional, etc.
What is important: Every connection request should have a reason!
Once you’ve identified the desired introduction, and you have discovered the common link(s), how do you go about actually turning your request into a concrete connection?
First of all, there is no sure-fire way to get a request to lead to a connection and a connection to lead to a professional relationship. However, implementing a strategy with a few or all key elements can definitely increase the likelihood of not just getting a successful connection response, but also the possibility of that connection ultimately leading to something more.
Everything on LinkedIn should be personalized LinkedIn will always fill in with a generic substitute, but the idea is that all LinkedIn professionals will always opt and work to develop a customized approach starting at the profile building point and developing further via LinkedIn communication pathways.
The key ingredient is to always come from a place of thoughtfulness and graciousness. In other words, putting some thought into of how you want the relationships to begin. If you were at a live networking event, you would not simply tap someone, and the connection would be made. You would either introduce yourself or be introduced, and then carry on a discussion so that a base is formed; setting the foundation for something to be potentially built upon.
The problem with the “connect” button on LinkedIn is that it is in no way personal or inviting. The “connect” button should only be the trigger that ignites you into action.
In fact, many people ignore the generic message (even with the addition of the person’s name) just because it can make the recipient question the intention of the sender, the personality of the sender, and the level of LinkedIn Intelligence of the sender.
It is very important to convey a sense of both appreciation and importance in the connection request. This is accomplished by taking the time to write a well thought-out request. It is about moving from what is readily available, and creating one that is personalized and targeted.
The following key steps you can take before attempting to open that introduction door:
1. Ask yourself, why you really want to connect to that person?
2. Ask yourself, why the person would want to be connected to you?
3. See how many connections you have in common (always displayed on your left)
4. What common points can help trigger the desired connection into action?
5. Is there a point of reference you can use to get the conversation started?
6. Never approach a connection request with a demand or a request.
7. Start with something personal yet informal. The message of the connection request is KEY!
8. Make sure it is clear why the connection makes sense – the recipient should see the logic behind your request. They must see the worth in having you as a first level connection.
9. Never be self-promoting-unless you really want to push the potential connection away.
10. Do not use the cut and paste method. LinkedIn gives you 300 characters to work your magic around creating an attractive, and well thought out targeted message (no links allowed).
There you have it. It is not about connecting for the sake of connecting. This is an online professional networking hub. The great thing about LinkedIn is that there is no time limit. You do not have to rush your request. Take the time needed to give the so important first-step the attention it deserves.
There are 3 major culprits that will not allow for customized messaging. When you send out a message to all of your email contacts (everybody in that database will receive the generic greeting), the LinkedIn mobile app. ( not sophisticated enough and should not be used to do anything personal or action-oriented), and finally the People You May Know platform (you can personalize your message; however, with a lesser character limit.)
LinkedIn is a professional networking tool. It is important to never forget what you know from face-to-face networking events and opportunities. If you want to achieve success, and want these connections to eventually build into relationships, you have to put your best foot forward by building something based on care, consideration, respect, and what has been termed, “The Personal Approach”.