When you look at the benefits of having connections on LinkedIn you begin to see why open networking is actually a sound business decision. Many people create objections without ever first considering the benefits of having a large connection base. To better understand the value you not only have to consider the human element, but also the Linkedin “design” element.

LinkedIn has been designed to drive an individuals success through their connections and their connections, connections. So your success just does not rely on your direct (1st) level connections, but also those that are 2nd degree connections and their connections who are 3rd degree. Linkedin’s advanced search is built around this, introductions to others (prospects) you do not know are built around this, and this allows you to leverage your efforts.

Let’s look more closely at these three benefits

Search
When you are looking for prospects, leads, contacts, or other opportunities on Linkedin the advanced search is a goldmine. Your search results can be driven by not only your direct connections, but also 2nd and 3rd degree connections. Once you have your search results then you can look at that person profile for an email address or phone number to contact them. If you cannot find an email address or phone number that is okay because this next benefit covers it.

Introductions
You can request introductions through your first level contacts to 2nd and 3rd degree connections. This alone is a reason to never argue the value of building your 1st level connections.

Leverage
You leverage your efforts by connecting with super connectors. What do I mean? Simple you identify the most well connected professionals on Linkedin who are capitalizing on using Linkedin for business. You then invite them to connect, provided they have indicated they are an open networker. (An open networker is one who accepts all invites on Linkedin and does not choose IDK, or I Do not Know.)

By connecting with Linkedin’s most successful members you exponentially leverage your efforts. Who are the super connected? Watch for them in participating in groups and Linkedin Q&A’s they are pretty easy to spot. They have well crafted profiles and are active in the Linkedin Space.

Still not sure of the super connected, I will publish a list next week detailing who I believe are must connects for any Linkedin member.

So lets build a high quality network together, connect with me by sending an invite from LinkedIn Invitations to this email address: linkwithrandy@yahoo.com  

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