Simple things to amplify your LinkedIn brand

When connecting with another profile user, LinkedIn limits 300 characters per request.

Having written a few connection notes in this limited format, I have actually developed a formula I would like to share with you: the novice connector.? With practice, you can create LinkedIn connection notes with others.

First, I always start with a purpose for connecting with the other person, especially if I don’t know a person very well.

Here, the tieback element takes a very critical role.

Let me demonstrate how to place the tieback into a connection note.??? Consider a college accounting student who hears a guest speaker in her course.?? During his presentation, the speaker mentions that his firm is looking for summer internships.

Here is how that student can use the tieback element in her connection note to the senior accounting representative.

“Mr. Garcia,

Thanks for sharing your expertise on new IRS rules during my accounting class at Illinois State and your summer internship program info.? I hope you will accept my request to connect on LinkedIn.

Sally Smith”

The tieback element?

It’s the speaking engagement at Sally’s college.

Here’s another way to use the “tieback” element for a professional attending a Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

For clarification, let’s imagine that Greg and Dawn meet each sitting next to each other at the event.

Both trade business cards, but Dawn asks if she can connect with him as a LinkedIn connection.

Dawn waits a couple of days before sending her connection request.?

She writes this simple connection note within the 300 characters given to her.

Greg,?????????????????????????????? ????????????????????????????????????

It was great sitting next to you at the Chamber of commerce luncheon.? As a realtor, I always seek financial connections to build my network.

So, here’s hoping we continue our conversation after you accept this LinkedIn connection.

Dawn

Unlike Sally, Dawn’s tieback draws upon their chamber of commerce lunch meeting.

LinkedIn users can also use a tieback when someone refers them to another person in their contact lists.

Michael Brownfiel, a retired Army first sergeant, will suggest to others that they should use his name when sending a connection note to me.

Here’s how I would suggest a tieback for people who want to contact with me in this setting.

Hi Matt,

Michael Brownfiel has told me that you can help me in my transition.? I’m leaving the Navy next year, and I can use your help with my LinkedIn profile.? Here’s hoping we can connect.

Ted

As a longtime LinkedIn coach, it's easy to use a tieback with every connection note.? When I get connection note requests like these, it helps me understand the clear purpose for building upon our relationship.