As you navigate LinkedIn and start to use the search tool more effectively, understanding the concept of ‘degrees of connection’ is crucial for optimizing your networking strategy and maximizing your professional opportunities.
First-Degree Connections: The Foundation of Your Network
First-degree connections are the bedrock of your LinkedIn network. These are individuals you have already (directly) connected with, either by accepting their invitation or extending one yourself and it being accepted by them. First-degree connections offer a wealth of benefits, including:
- Direct Communication: You can send messages, engage in conversations, and collaborate with your first-degree connections with ease.Â
- Enhanced Contacts: Once connected, you gain access to your first-degree connections contact details, often allowing you to view emails, phone numbers and more details.
- Mutual Benefit: By nurturing these connections, you foster a reciprocal relationship, increasing your visibility and opportunities within their networks.
- Increased Second-Degree Connections: The connection base of your first-degree connections forms your second-degree network of connection opportunities – see next point.
Second-Degree Connections: Expanding Your Reach
Second-degree connections are individuals who are connected to your first-degree connections but not to you directly. These connections are valuable because they expand your network beyond your immediate circle. While you cannot directly message second-degree connections, you can send them connection requests.
Second-degree connections offer opportunities to:
- Identify and connect with potential collaborators, partners, or clients.
- Access industry insights and trends from a broader perspective.
- Gain exposure to new ideas and perspectives from different sectors.
Third-Degree Connections: Reaching Beyond Your Circle
Third-degree connections are individuals not connected to you or any of your second-degree connections. These connections represent the outer boundaries of the entire LinkedIn network.
Third-degree connections can be valuable for:
- Identifying potential leads or referral sources for your business.
- Networking with industry experts or thought leaders.
- Staying informed about emerging trends and developments in your field.
Note: You can still send individual connection requests to third-degree connections by visiting their profile (depending on their settings, the connection link will either be immediately visible or you will need to click on the ‘more’ option to find it). However, the absence of a mutual connection means they are much less likely to agree to connect – so it’s much better to build your primary network, expand your second-degree network and create mutual connections.
Actionable Advice for Building a Thriving LinkedIn Network
Expand Your Circle Wisely: Prioritise connecting with individuals who share similar interests, professional goals, or industry expertise.
Nurture Your First-Degree Connections: Engage regularly with your first-degree connections by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts.
Leveraging Second-Degree Connections: Reach out to second-degree connections with personalised messages that highlight your shared interests or potential value.
Strategically Utilise InMails: Use InMails judiciously to reach out to individuals who could be valuable additions to your network.
Participate in LinkedIn Groups: Join relevant LinkedIn groups to expand your network and engage with like-minded professionals.
Post Thoughtful Content: Regularly share informative and engaging content that showcases your expertise and connects with your network’s interests.
Engage with Industry News and Discussions: Follow relevant industry news outlets, participate in online discussions, and share your insights to demonstrate your knowledge and engagement.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Degrees
Understanding the degrees of connection on LinkedIn is not just about semantics; it’s about leveraging your network strategically to achieve your goals. Focus on building strong relationships with first-degree connections, this then expands your reach to second-degree connections allowing for further growth and success.
Remember, LinkedIn thrives on engagement and meaningful connections.