HOW TO GROW YOUR LINKEDIN NETWORK

Knowing how to make the most of popular social networking platforms like LinkedIn can go a long way in opening doors to new connections and job opportunities.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, physical networking events were the norm for professionals looking to make connections. While some of them have made a comeback, virtual events, such as webinars, online trade shows, and training events have become more commonplace. Still, it does not change the importance of building and nurturing connections and how critical it is for jobseekers.

But if you are looking for a place to start out, LinkedIn is your best bet as one of the most popular online networking platforms. Not only does it allow you to upload your resume and apply to relevant jobs, it can also help you to keep tabs on your current network, as well as make new connections.

Expanding your network

It can be tempting to connect with every friend and family member you have on LinkedIn. But while some of them may be working in your chosen industry, trying to connect with all of them may not help you to grow your network or find new job opportunities. Ultimately, be mindful of who you choose to connect with and ask yourself if the connection you want to make is able to add value to both you and the other party’s career journey.

Add people whom you have worked with

The most effective way to start your LinkedIn network is to add people you have worked with before, such as your former superiors and colleagues from previous jobs and internships. By adding them via their email addresses or mobile numbers, you will then be able to see their profiles, their posts, past working experiences and skills.

You can develop your connection with them by interacting with them, such as commenting on their posts, discussing industry insights, and sharing interesting news articles for engagement. You can also send your congratulations during their milestones and post relevant thoughts on LinkedIn periodically to ensure you are on their top of mind.

Add people whom you have met

When attending job fairs or networking events, whether virtually or physically, take the opportunity to meet new people and add them on LinkedIn. The CDC hosts such events, so look out for them on the calendar and attend as many of them as you can. Not only do such sessions provide a great learning experience, it also provides a platform to expand your professional network.

However, do not just meet people just for their connections – it is pointless to have thousands of connections but have none of them remember you. Instead, take the time and effort to get to know them first, such as asking about job roles, industry, and aspirations. Quality is definitely more important than quantity in this scenario, so focus on making genuine connections rather than many.

Add people whom you would like to know

While it is not advisable to thoughtlessly add random contacts to your LinkedIn network, you may add people from your chosen industry whom you have not met yet, so long as you do so with the right introduction. This can include a talent acquisition manager from your dream company, or a tech guru you wish to learn from.

Keep in mind that your primary goal on LinkedIn should be to grow your connections based on sincerity and common interests, and not as a means to gain favours. Be polite and use the right tone to write an invite to your desired connections. As long as you remain respectful and genuine with your connections, they will be more likely to help you out on their own accord.