How to CONNECT with People on LinkedIn
Josefine Wanner
Teaching Service Providers LinkedIn Strategy that WORKS | LinkedIn Breakthrough | Designed To Sell | Former UBS & Big4 turned Entrepreneur
With 1 billion users on LinkedIn, it's staggering that 99% of them never engage by liking, commenting, or posting.
However, hidden within that silent majority are your Ideal Clients, and it can be really difficult to find them...
So, how do you ensure they find you?
First, let’s look at how LinkedIn’s algorithm works differently than other social media platforms.
LinkedIn’s Algorithm vs. Other Platforms
On Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and even YouTube the Algorithm curates content based on what you stop to watch.
If I spend a few extra seconds watching a funny stand-up comedy, or a wedding dance, guess what? My feed becomes full of those.
I bet that most of your TikTok and Instagram Connections don't post cute kittens or babies that eat something for the first time - and yet, they pop up in your feed.
Their Algorithm is based on what they think you're interested in.
LinkedIn, however, plays a different game.
On LinkedIn, your content can appear not just to your direct connections but also to their connections. This broader exposure means that building genuine connections is essential to amplify your reach. The key? Making sure the right eyes see your content.
How to Ensure Your Connections See Your Content
Engagement on LinkedIn isn’t just about sending endless connection requests and hoping for the best. Building authentic relationships is paramount. Here’s what you shouldn’t do: send your connections a pitch or link in your first, second, or even third message.
Why?
You don’t yet know if they have the problem you’re eager to solve.
Hold back on those premature pitches and focus on understanding your connections first. Build relationships, and they will want to read and engage in your content.
They’ll thank you for it, and you’ll value them more when you know they genuinely need your help.
The Right Way to Connect on LinkedIn
Unlike many common strategies, I encourage a different approach: connect with people who are already active on LinkedIn and whose content interests you.
Why?
Because your engagement strategy should be fun and meaningful, making it easier to comment authentically on posts.
Avoid the trap of shallow comments like “Great post!” or using bots for engagement.
These shortcuts can (and most likely will...) damage your personal brand.
Instead, set yourself apart as an expert and authority by engaging thoughtfully.
Find people where your ideal clients might hang out, such as authors or industry leaders who are active on LinkedIn.
When you engage with their content, your comments will be seen by others who follow those thought leaders—potentially attracting new, like-minded connections.
Intentional Connection Requests
Skip the “spray and pray” method for connection requests. Be intentional. While LinkedIn’s free version limits you to around five personalized Direct Messages (DMs) per month, use them wisely.
Connect with more people by sending requests without a message and follow up once they accept.
When you do reach out, avoid generic openers like, “Hey, how are you?” Instead, check out their profile for commonalities:
Genuine connection points matter.
领英推荐
Increasing the Probability of Connection Acceptance
Before sending a connection request, engage with their content first — comment thoughtfully on a few posts. Then, send your request.
This approach boosts the likelihood they’ll accept and sets the stage for continued engagement.
Follow up by sharing relevant content or resources that made you think of them, such as articles or podcast episodes.
Treat your connections like real people, simply because they are.
Use LinkedIn’s Search Feature Wisely
Use LinkedIn’s search feature to find people in specific positions or companies that interest you or who might attract your ideal clients. Remember, if you have LinkedIn Premium, you can see how active someone is on the platform, which helps you connect with people who actually engage.
The Hidden Power of LinkedIn Groups and Events
LinkedIn groups aren’t as active as Facebook groups, but they’re still valuable for finding like-minded professionals.
Join groups where your ideal clients or peers hang out and connect with them there — even if they’re third-level connections.
Attending LinkedIn events is another goldmine.
If you see an event hosted by a peer or influencer with many attendees, register and connect with those who attended.
It’s a perfect icebreaker to start conversations like,
“Hey [Name], I saw you attended [Event]. My main takeaway was [insight]. What did you think?”
But again - don't do this, or use these "tactics" to target people to sell to.
No-one wants to be sold to, but they want to get their problems solved.
Do you see the difference?
So far in this series, I’ve covered
Remember, it’s not just about having an optimized profile, and absolutely NOT about engaging aimlessly.
It’s about strategically combining all these elements to attract your ideal clients and build your network.
Stay tuned for next week’s YouTube video, where I’ll cover Content that Converts—because no strategy is complete without it.
Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube Channel so you don’t miss it!
Oh, AND, I'm hosting my LAST LinkedIn Clarity Masterclass for the year, where I'll go through and explain my (super simple) 5-Step LinkedIn Strategy, so that you can implement it with ease, and kick-off 2025 like the STAR you are! ??
I would LOVE to see you there!
?? Josefine
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW: https://josefinewanner.online/linkedin-clarity-masterclass
Empowering Creative Professionals to build SUCCESS and ENRICH homes, so they can THRIVE ?? | DESIGNED to ENRICH | Your KEY to a thriving life and a harmonious living space.
5 天前Thank you Josefine! ????
Operations - Business management - Communication | ??
1 周That was very useful, I am still amazed at those who still think that all you need to do is have your ”CV” listed here and jobs will come flooding to you. It’s a social betwork platform, with emphasis on the social. Good points! ????
I empower Women in Tech & Science to Negotiate their Next Promotion with Confidence and Ease | Exec Consultant | 20+ Years experience in Technology and Leadership.
1 周Love your newsletter Josefine Wanner. I look forward to reading it every time. Thank you for sharing great wisdom and experience with us ??
Maximize your financial potential with a financial blueprint I Founder at Pashman Financial, LLC
1 周Incredible how much opportunity gets looked over from it all.
Learning & Development Specialist helping individuals and companies create results and flourish with Growth Mindset in Joy | CPCC certified Coach | People & Culture Project partner
1 周Great advise, Thanks for sharing ???? generosity! it really gave me a push to start using and seeing LinkedIn in another way after listening in to you Josefine Wanner ??I got bolder, even if I still have much more to embrace…????♀?