LinkedIn has transformed over time from a mere online CV site into a site meant for productive professional engagement. In fact, 35% of professionals claim that informal talks with clients or connections on LinkedIn have considerably expanded the scope of their occupation and transformed these interactions into business ventures.
How to connect on LinkedIn using the right approach? One of the most proven methods is striking up a casual conversation with the intention of building meaningful relationships.
1. Start with a Light, Friendly Approach
While connecting with a person on LinkedIn, always start with a light conversation instead of a heavy topic. Commence by mentioning one of their recent posts or a topic they are fond of discussing. A simple “I really like your perspective in this” is a great way of starting a conversation. This way, it does not look as if one is struggling to break the ice.
2. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Also, instead of addressing the person through a cold transactional message, you could, for example, try asking open-ended questions. Such questions create opportunities for the other party to tell something and elaborate on experiences and thoughts they might have. This helps build relationships, and you get to have a real contact.
For instance, you may say, “I noticed you’ve been working on this project/initiative. How’s it been going?”. This, in essence, provides them with the leeway to allow you to provide them with such details, and it then logically leads to further questions.
3. Be Relatable and Real
LinkedIn has been exposed to a fair share of criticism for being a little too superficial or fake, especially with the recent surge in the number of users for drafting AI professional posts. AI detection tool OriginalityAI says that over 54% of long English posts on LinkedIn are likely to have been written by AI.
In fact, that is not the case since professionals do appreciate genuineness. However, this kind of post today can be considered as somehow hard to come across. This also includes communications as well. Be more authentic, and you will give them a reason to notice you.
Don’t be scared to expose a portion of yourself in an engaging manner. Instead of talking about business alone, discuss a recent issue you had to deal with or an experience that provided you with some insight.
4. Don’t Rush to Sell
First impressions do really matter in making connections. Many users of LinkedIn make an error of pitching their services the moment their connection accepts their request. Such a conversation can create a bad impression, and in fact, negative first impressions tend to last longer. Rather, try to understand how some trust can be developed and what the needs and interests of the other person are. Trusting relationships are more likely to provide a higher rate of successful partnerships than an opportunistic approach to selling.
5. Keep it Casual but Consistent
It is perfectly normal that through casual conversation one does not get results instantly. Here is one of the key reasons: consistency in communication and interactions. Over some time, very light, casual exchanges help in creating a positive impression with your connection. To do this, leaving a supportive comment, a question to invoke discussion, or giving a genuine perspective can create a genuine approach to strengthen or build a connection.
As noted in the previous strategies, using casual conversations on LinkedIn can be very useful in achieving such goals while making clients feel comfortable and relaxed. Using the right tones in communication is also important. It must be done in a casual and nonrigid way. With authentic communication, it is easier to build a strong relationship.
Conclusion
Making genuine professional connections on LinkedIn is all about keeping things casual and authentic. Start with light conversations, ask open-ended questions, and let your true self show. Networking is about building trust and understanding what others need. Consistency matters, so engage regularly with supportive comments and thoughtful questions.
