Whether you're launching a business, changing careers, or entering a new industry, learning how to connect with people on LinkedIn is a crucial skill in 2025. LinkedIn is still the leading professional networking platform, helping you grow your network, explore job opportunities, and reach out to potential clients or collaborators.

Unlike casual social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn is designed specifically for professional interactions, making it an ideal place to build meaningful business relationships.

If you’re new to LinkedIn or returning after a break, its rules and features might seem a little restrictive at first. But once you understand how the platform works and follow some key etiquette, connecting with others becomes easy and rewarding.

Why LinkedIn Is Still a Must-Have Tool

LinkedIn isn't just for job seekers—it's a powerful platform for building professional credibility, connecting with industry peers, and generating B2B leads. With over a billion users globally, it's one of the most effective places to expand your influence and grow your personal or company brand.

For businesses, especially in B2B, LinkedIn remains a top choice for finding and connecting with prospects. Whether you're building a pipeline or looking for partnerships, LinkedIn makes it easier to identify decision-makers and start meaningful conversations.

How to Connect with People on LinkedIn (6 Effective Ways)

If you’re wondering how to grow your professional network, here are six smart ways to connect with people on LinkedIn:

1. Send a Request from Their Profile

Visit someone’s profile and click “Connect.” Add a short, personalized message to introduce yourself and explain why you’d like to connect.

2. Import Email Contacts

Use LinkedIn’s Grow Your Network tool to import contacts from your email and instantly connect with people you already know.

3. Search and Connect

Use LinkedIn’s search feature to find people in your industry. Click “Connect” next to their name from the search results page.

4. Accept Incoming Requests

Under the My Network tab, you’ll find pending invitations. Review and accept connection requests that make sense for your goals.

5. Request Introductions from Mutual Connections

If someone is a 2nd-degree connection (a friend of a friend), you can ask your mutual contact for an introduction—just like in real life.

6. Use LinkedIn’s Suggestions

Check the “People You May Know” section under My Network for recommendations based on your existing network and interests.

LinkedIn Etiquette: What You Should Know Before Reaching Out

LinkedIn is a professional space, so it's important to approach connections with courtesy and purpose. Here are some best practices:

✅ Do:

• Send personalized connection requests. Mention how you found the person and why you want to connect.

• Be respectful and professional.

• Focus on quality over quantity. Build a network that aligns with your career or business objectives.

❌ Don’t:

• Spam users with generic or sales-heavy messages.

• Try to connect with everyone without a clear purpose.

• Send follow-up messages that feel pushy or overly self-promotional.

Building a strong LinkedIn network requires patience, relevance, and genuine engagement.

What Do 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Mean on LinkedIn?

One of the most common questions new users ask is: What do 1st, 2nd, and 3rd connections mean on LinkedIn?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 1st-degree connections: People you’re directly connected with. You can message them freely.

• 2nd-degree connections: These are connections of your 1st-degree contacts. You can send them a request or use InMail (if you have LinkedIn Premium).

• 3rd-degree connections: These are one step further removed—contacts of your 2nd-degree connections. You might not always be able to connect unless you have a shared group or use InMail.

You may also encounter users outside of your extended network. If there’s no degree label next to their name, they’re not connected to you in any way. In such cases, joining a shared LinkedIn group or sending a premium message (InMail) may be the best way to reach out.

How to Send Better LinkedIn Connection Requests

To successfully connect with someone, your message matters. Here are a few tips:

1. Look at their profile for insights. Mention shared interests, a recent post, or a mutual contact.

2. Be clear and brief. Let them know who you are, why you’re reaching out, and what you hope to gain from the connection.

3. Focus on value. If the relationship could benefit both of you, highlight that.

Avoid copy-paste messages—people can tell. A thoughtful, authentic message stands out and increases your chances of being accepted.

How to Withdraw a LinkedIn Connection Request

If you sent a request accidentally or changed your mind, here’s how to cancel it:

1. Click “My Network” at the top of the page.

2. Select “See All” next to Invitations.

3. Go to the “Sent” tab.

4. Click “Withdraw” next to the request you want to cancel.

Note: Once withdrawn, you’ll need to wait 3 weeks before sending another invite to the same person.

Grow Your LinkedIn Network with Confidence

Now that you know how to connect with people on LinkedIn, you’re ready to take full advantage of everything the platform has to offer—whether it’s growing your professional network, reaching new clients, or building a powerful personal brand.

When you focus on quality, relevance, and professional communication, LinkedIn becomes an invaluable tool for career development and business growth.

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