Wondering how to connect with someone on LinkedIn? Here are 5 ways to build your LinkedIn network from scratch 🤝🏽

Alicia just graduated college!

She feels pride and excitement for what the future holds.

For Alicia, graduating college with a degree in Finance also means the beginning of her career. Some of Alicia's friends mentioned LinkedIn, but she has yet to learn different ways to use it.

If you're like Alicia, learning how to connect with someone on LinkedIn can help jumpstart your career!

LinkedIn is a popular site for professionals to connect, learn and share knowledge on career and life development.

LinkedIn works as a virtual resume that allows you to search for jobs, connects you with other professionals in your field, and helps advance your career.

Here are some sections to include in your profile:

• Work — add, change, or remove any job or internship you have held

• Volunteering — can help boost your resume, highlight any leadership skills

• Skills — include relevant skills to make your profile stand out

• Interests — can help you connect to a recruiter or potential employer

Ok, great! What next?

There are 5ways you can use LinkedIn to connect with different people for different purposes.

Connect with classmates with similar backgrounds to:

• Receive updates on any news related to your field of study.

• See what they do for a living.

• Learn about new career opportunities.

• Help you get a foot in the door of your dream job.

Also, you can search for your college's alum group on Linkedin. Almost every college, university, and high school community is on LinkedIn.

Sample Alumni Message Template:

Hi [person's name],

My name is [your name], and I am a [your school] alum. I came across your profile and was impressed by your background and experience. I currently hold a degree in [your degree] and would love to connect and learn more about what you do and what advice you can give someone new to the field. 

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you for your time!

[your name]

[email or phone number]

Many jobs will ask for references that you know your work experience and character. Create connections with previous mentors or leaders to keep in touch and easily reach out to them.

• Teachers — can describe your accomplishments, work effort, and reliability

• Coaches — can describe your experience as a team player and collaborator

• Current or previous bosses — can describe your work ethic, dependability, and dedication

• Volunteer or community leaders — can speak of your ability to work well with others

Sample Mentor Message Template:

Dear [person's name],

It was a pleasure knowing you when I worked at ABC Company. I have great memories of working with you and the rest of the team. I hope we can connect and stay in touch! 

Best wishes,

[your name]

[email or phone number]

Connecting to current or previous work colleagues is a great idea, especially if you have a good working relationship. They might be a good reference or know of a potential job in your field.

Also, if they know of any job openings at their company that you are a good fit for, they might reach out to you to see if you are interested in applying.

Sample Colleague Message Template:

Dear [person's name],

It was nice working with you at [company name]. I wanted to reconnect and stay in touch. Let's find a time to catch up!

[your name]

[email or phone number]

Did you go to a work-related event or conference? Or any event that involved meeting people in your field? (e.g. did you attend a design festival or conference and meet fellow designers?)

Connecting on LinkedIn will help establish your relationship with them, and once connected, ask additional questions that might help you in your career.

Sample Work Conference Message Template:

Hi [person's name],

It was a pleasure meeting you, and I hope to connect here too! I hope you enjoyed attending the ABC Conference as much as I did.

Sincerely,

[your name]

[email or phone number]

LinkedIn provides ways to expand your network with people you admire in your industry. Connecting with someone you admire could help create great relationships that might lead to incredible opportunities.

When connecting with someone you do not know, ensure your message is personalized and professional.

Sample Message Template:

Hi [person's name],

My name is [your name]. I am a [your college] graduate with a degree in Graphic Design. I have been following you on Instagram and Facebook, and your work inspires me. Your art is so original and creative!

I hope to connect, and if you have the chance, I would be grateful if you could view my portfolio and give me any tips or strategies that will make it stand out.

Thank you for your time.

[your name]

[email or phone number]

Do

• Personalize the message — it makes it more likely the person will connect with you.

• Proofread your message — take time to make sure the message is free from any grammar or spelling mistakes.

• Include a profile picture — creates a solid visual impression by showing your personality and professional presence.

• Respond politely — whether you accept or initiate an invitation to connect, always keep it professional and polite.

Avoid

• Sending multiple messages — only send one message to connect. The other person might wait to respond, so be patient.

• Sending inappropriate messages — always keep your message professional and avoid topics that might make the other person uncomfortable, such as talking about salary or dating.

• Spamming — only reach out to your connection with relevant messages that build a professional relationship.

• Incomplete profile — Before reaching out to anyone, ensure your profile is complete and professional.

Linkedin is a great way to connect with people and cultivate valuable job opportunities. As you grow into your career, so will your network. These are just a few ways to start making great connections and building your professional network.