Introduction
LinkedIn has become the go-to platform for professional networking, but connecting with people you don’t know personally can be a bit tricky. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, find new opportunities, or seek advice from industry experts, knowing how to connect on LinkedIn without knowing the person is a valuable skill. In this article, I’ll share my proven strategies for making meaningful connections on LinkedIn, even when you’re reaching out to strangers.
Common Mistakes When Connecting on LinkedIn
Before we dive into the right way to connect, let’s look at some common mistakes people make when reaching out to strangers on LinkedIn:
- Using generic connection requests without personalization
- Failing to research the person you’re trying to connect with
- Immediately pitching a product or service after connecting
- Sending lengthy messages that are overwhelming to read
- Not clearly stating the purpose of your connection request
I once received a connection request that simply said, “Hi, let’s connect!” with no context or personalization. Needless to say, I didn’t accept. Remember, you’re entering someone’s professional space – make it count!
The 4-Step Proven Formula
Over the years, I’ve developed a four-step formula that has consistently yielded positive results when connecting with strangers on LinkedIn. Let’s break it down:
Step 1: Make Them Feel You’ve Picked Them Out Personally
Start by explaining how you found their profile. This shows that you’ve put thought into reaching out to them specifically. For example:
“I came across your profile while researching thought leaders in digital marketing, and your insights on content strategy really caught my attention.”
Step 2: Make a Genuine Connection
Reference something specific from their profile or recent activity that resonated with you. This demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to understand their professional interests. For instance:
“Your recent post about the importance of storytelling in B2B marketing really struck a chord with me. I’ve been implementing similar strategies in my work and have seen great results.”
Step 3: Introduce Yourself Briefly
Keep your introduction concise and relevant to the conversation you want to have. Focus on the aspects of your background that align with their interests or expertise. Here’s an example:
“I’m a digital marketing specialist with a focus on LinkedIn strategies for B2B companies. I’ve been in the industry for 5 years and am always looking to learn from experienced professionals like yourself.”
Step 4: Tell Them What You Want from Them
Be clear about your intention for connecting. Whether it’s seeking advice, exploring collaboration opportunities, or simply expanding your network, state it explicitly. For example:
“I’d love to connect and occasionally exchange ideas about the evolving landscape of B2B marketing on LinkedIn. Would you be open to accepting my connection request?”
Additional Tips for Successful LinkedIn Connections
To maximize your success rate when connecting with strangers on LinkedIn, consider these additional tips:
- Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Ensure your profile is complete, professional, and showcases your expertise. This increases the likelihood that people will accept your connection requests.
- Craft compelling messages: Use a friendly, professional tone and proofread your messages for errors. A well-written message can make all the difference.
- Engage after connecting: Once someone accepts your connection request, don’t disappear. Like and comment on their posts, or send a follow-up message to start a conversation.
- Start with mutual connections: If possible, begin by connecting with people who share mutual connections with you. This can provide a sense of trust and familiarity.
Remember, building a strong LinkedIn network is about quality, not just quantity. As my colleague Sarah from San Francisco often says, “It’s not about how many connections you have, but how many meaningful relationships you can build.”
FAQs
1. Is it okay to connect with someone on LinkedIn without knowing them personally?
Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to connect with people you don’t know personally on LinkedIn, as long as you have a genuine reason for connecting and approach them professionally.
2. How many connection requests should I send per day?
LinkedIn doesn’t specify an exact limit, but it’s best to keep it under 100 per day to avoid being flagged as spam. Quality over quantity is key.
3. What should I do if someone doesn’t accept my connection request?
Don’t take it personally. They might be busy or selective about their connections. Focus on others who are more receptive to networking.
4. Can I use automation tools to send connection requests?
While automation tools exist, I recommend against using them for connection requests. Personalized, manual outreach tends to be more effective and less likely to violate LinkedIn’s terms of service.
5. How long should my connection message be?
Keep it concise – aim for 2-3 short paragraphs. Your message should be long enough to be personalized and explain your intent, but short enough to read quickly.
6. Should I connect with competitors on LinkedIn?
It depends on your goals. Connecting with competitors can provide industry insights, but be mindful of the information you share on your profile and in your activities.
7. How often should I follow up after sending a connection request?
If they haven’t accepted after a week, you can send one follow-up message. If there’s still no response, it’s best to move on.