The Art of Connection: Lessons from a High School Morning

I love it when I find valuable insights in unexpected places. One such moment came to me while dropping off a certain teenager at school. As we arrived a little early she realized that none of her friends were there yet. When I said, that's perfect, go out there and meet new people." Her response was "That's not how it works." [smirk]

This sparked a thought about the parallels between making friends in high school and expanding your professional network, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn.

1. The Power of Introductions        

In high school, a common way to make new friends is through introductions by your existing friends. It's the classic "friend of a friend" scenario. As we age, our social circles can often become smaller, and the process of making new connections can seem more challenging. This is where online networking tools like LinkedIn come into play.

LinkedIn is essentially the adult equivalent of being introduced by a friend. It connects you with individuals who share your values, interests, and professional direction. When you reach out to someone through mutual connections, there's a level of trust that can be instantly established.

2. The Importance of Engaging        

Just as the teenager didn't like the idea of "just go out there and meet new people" professionals can sometimes feel apprehensive about reaching out to new connections on LinkedIn.

The good news is, you don't have to be overly assertive or "weird" on LinkedIn. Instead, focus on meaningful and genuine interactions. Engage with your connections by commenting on their posts, sharing valuable insights, or even sending a personalized message. Your active engagement will get noticed by your connections' networks and can lead to natural, organic growth. Just like the high school "friend of a friend" formula.

3. Growing Your Brand        

Whether you're an individual building your personal brand or representing a business, the principles of networking remain the same. Pay attention to what your connections are doing on LinkedIn, and consider it as a small beginning to something potentially big. It's about expanding your reach and increasing the visibility of your brand, whether it's a company, your own business, or your professional career.

The connections you make on LinkedIn are not just contacts; they are your network. Just as high school friends introduce you to others, your LinkedIn connections can introduce you to new opportunities, partnerships, or collaborations.

Think Fresh!        

The art of networking remains a crucial skill throughout our lives. Whether in high school or the professional world, the power of introductions and engagement cannot be underestimated. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone on LinkedIn and start growing your network. It all starts with a small beginning, but it can lead to something very cool.

So, have fun with it, engage authentically, and watch your network and your personal or professional brand expand naturally and organically.

Happy growing!