Speaking With Over 1,000 Of My LinkedIn Connections - This Is What I Have Learned So Far

It seems like everywhere we turn these days, someone is telling us to build relationships. But what does that actually mean??

We all know that networking is essential, but it can be hard to know where to start or how to make the most of those connections.

So, I decided to personally reach out to my connections here on LinkedIn to get to know them by actually *gasp* having a brief 20-minute conversation with them - over 1,000 of them.

Why?

Over two years ago, I was speaking with a friend of mine. We were looking at our social media accounts. Out of the hundreds of social media connections she had, I asked her how many of these "connections" she knew. She told me she knew five - and most were family members. I noticed the same thing with my account. From that point, an idea was born.

What would happen if I actually spoke to my connections?

I find we are connecting on social media today, but we are not really connected. Out of hundreds, maybe even thousands of people we are connected to online, in my opinion:

1. No one should arrive at a question mark when they need a job
2. No one should have a great business idea that can change an industry and have nowhere to turn
3. No one should have no one relevant to talk to if they need an answer to a simple question.

Yet, many people I speak to share that they feel so alone when they have a question. This is because no one really KNOWS anyone anymore. We are not talking to each other. We have been too busy commenting and liking posts even to know if the person whose posts we are liking and commenting on are even LIKABLE.

This is a problem because humans are social creatures. We need each other to survive and thrive for our health - our mental health.

The Solution:

I decided to quiet the introverted part of myself, reach out, and get to know the humans I am connected to on social media.

If this idea seems scary to you, look at it this way

Now, I am not suggesting you become best friends with everyone you are connected to. And, I am not suggesting you add anyone and everyone to your inner circle. I *am* suggesting that you reach out and have an honest conversation with the people you are connected with - get to know them, their talents, and what they are passionate about.

You will be amazed at how many interesting, talented, and downright lovely people you are connected with that you never knew existed.

You never know when you will need them or they will need you.

So, let's get into it...

My goal: To speak to over 1000 of my LinkedIn connections. This is what I have learned so far:

• Professionalism goes a long way. People appreciate it when you reach out and are genuine in your desire to know them.
• Many people are happy to help, whether giving advice, passing on a lead or just being a sounding board.
• You will be surprised at how many interesting, talented people you are connected with.
• Some people are very uncomfortable with making the leap from social media to speaking "in real life" (some people have shared with me that they type better than they can talk) - that's okay.
• We all crave connection and belonging. Reaching out is a great way to show that you care.

You will be able to serve your connections most amazingly! As a business owner, tv show host, writer, and owning a virtual wellness practice for emotional eaters, food addicts, and people trying to lose weight, I can solve many problems. Problems that many people have been struggling with for months - even years - I was able to solve in a few minutes (or connect them with someone in my network who could). It felt AMAZING to serve and solve problems!

With much love,

Dr. Kirsten Grant

Have you reached out to your LinkedIn connections to get to know them? I would love to know! Comment below!