According to LinkedIn rules and regulations you are only allowed to connect to people you know. But when do you know someone? When you shake hands and exchange business cards? When you met at least 3 times for coffee? When you’ve known each other more than 3 months? Or when contact has only been online?
Each connection brings a LinkedIn Network
Right, your point being? LinkedIn is a network. To network is a verb. So if you’d like LinkedIn to be more than your online display window, you’ve got work to do. Say you have one connection, who has a network that is interesting to you. If this connections posts an update, you need to comment. This gives you exposure to their network. So make sure your comment adds value and shows expertise.
So who will you add to your LinkedIn Network?
- Every single person you’ve met. EVER | ANYWHERE | Classmates, colleagues, suppliers, clients, family, friends, members of your sports-team … anyone you ever met and spoke to for more than 3 minutes.
- People that have networks that are of interest to you. Never mind that annoying little … in primary school, his current network might be very interesting.
- People who could use your knowledge and expertise ( they will most likely respond to your updates and thus increase your visibility), besides, it is nice to help people.
- People who add interesting contributions to discussions in LinkedIn Groups.
But what to go for: quantity or quality?
That all depends on your goals with LinkedIn. Do you want to be found? Are you looking for a client, customer or employer? Aim for an extensive network. At least 300 people. Do you want people to recognise you as the expert in your industry? Go for 500+ Is LinkedIn just a showcase in place people look you up? In that case size is not important, although 23 connections does look a little sad. Is LinkedIn mainly a place to share knowledge and discuss industry developments? Only connect with people you really know (including people you’ve had extensive email or phone contact with).