3 Types Of People You Should Connect on LinkedIn.

Do I have to connect with everyone on LinkedIn? Do I have to accept each and every request I get on LinkedIn ?

As a global talent acquisition specialist and also as a LinkedIn user for more than a decade, these are frequent questions I get from people. However, it’s a very good question. People think that having thousands of followers is the LinkedIn game.

No, it is not.

Having the right connection is the game changer.

Are you creating a LinkedIn account to give or get? Ask this question from yourself. Through my experience of being on this amazing platform, I would say, it’s all about giving. It should not a short term approach. You should not be on LinkedIn for short term gains. It’s about sharing your knowledge and being a resource to your audience. Thereafter, you will build the tendency of connecting with people. However, it’s not only waiting for others’ requests, you can approach people and connect with them; but you need to clearly communicate the purpose of connecting with a particular person.

From my experience, I have received messages, solely sales pitches which are clear DON’Ts on LinkedIn and a handful of people connects to learn from each other. They are certainly givers. Givers and takers are the two categories of people on LinkedIn. Be a giver, not a taker. You will realise the potential of this flamboyant platform.

People on LinkedIn are always trying solve a problem and they look for people who can solve their problems.

Nevertheless, connecting with people and growing your network is crucial and something which should be done with patience and intelligence.

Here are the 3 types of people you should connect on LinkedIn;

1. Industry/Professionals Connections

You are at an event and mingling with others and you find one person to have a crisp conversation. At the end of this conversation, you can tell him/her “I certainly, liked our conversation, let’s connect on LinkedIn”. You should gradually divert the conversation to Linkedin. This cannot be done with everyone. One who is like-minded will agree to this type of connection. It can only be done with industry connections or professional connections.

2. Past/Present Colleagues or Managers

Connect with your past and present colleagues and managers. This will be beneficial for you in getting more eyeballs to your content and also it will help you in getting endorsed by someone.

3. Hiring Managers / Recruiters

Connecting with hiring managers can help you increase the visibility of your profile and also, your activity will be seen by them. Always use a forward thinking approach when you are connecting when connecting with people on LinkedIn.

The most important factor is that you give pride of place to quality over quantity. It’s the norm when you are connecting with either of the 3 types of connections mentioned above.

So, set a goal for yourself. How many quality connections am I accumulating everyday.

Remember, “quality” before you connect.

Share this articles with your colleagues in your network and comment your opinion on the deals expressed in this edition.

Let’s start connecting with quality profiles.

Wish You Success !

Sasanka Dias