IU #008: Unlocking LinkedIn: How to Turn Casual Connections into Career Opportunities

Networking on LinkedIn can be tricky.

At first, messaging people can feel awkward. Unnatural. But after a pleasant conversation, you will see it’s not that difficult. Those initial feelings will become a thing of the past.

After that, the benefits are incredible. Meeting people with similar goals is exciting, educational and inspiring. It’s so much fun.

LinkedIn is on my mind this week because I just hit a new milestone on the site. Twenty-five thousand people are now following my content. How crazy is that?

When I started writing, I never expected people to read my work. So, I really appreciate you taking the time to read it.

Ironically, after hitting this milestone, I wanted to stress how YOU can get 90% of the benefits from networking with a much smaller network. If you can speak to the right people the right way, just a handful of people can transform your career.

In this newsletter, I'll explain how you can start conversations with the right people. You will learn to talk to people genuinely (without feeling cringe, awkward or unnatural). This informal networking will really help to transform your career.

One last thing.

I have two coaching slots remaining for next week. Whether it’s helping with your resume, networking or overcoming blockers, I would love to help you land a job.

This is your last opportunity to book before I head to Italy for a week of sunshine (hopefully). You can find the details of all my coaching here.

Let's dive in.

Genuine curiosity is the secret sauce of networking.

It's as simple as that.

Let's say you connect with someone who works for a business. Don’t open with 'Hey buddy, got any jobs?'. That's not going to work.

Instead, remember that magic ingredient: genuine curiosity.

I would start by thanking them for connecting and then show interest in their work.

You'd be amazed how willing people are to share their experiences when you show interest. And guess what, they also remember you more because you were genuinely interested. Win-win.

Let's simplify this down to 7 simple steps.

• Before you hit ‘connect’, leave a public comment:

On LinkedIn, you can leave public comments or send private messages. I suggest leaving a few comments before you hit connect. It’s a friendly way of starting a conversation.

After that, send them a friendly connection request. Mention what you found interesting about their profile and something you have in common.

‘Hey, I’m Michael. I noticed you’re also a Data Analyst in Manchester. We both created content helping people with their data careers, so I hit connect.’

• Start with gratitude:

When you connect with someone, 'Hey [Name], thank you for accepting my connection request.'

This first line is your digital handshake. Warm, respectful, and sets the tone for the conversation.

•  Show genuine interest in their work:

'I've been following your company's work in [specific area]. I love the new product you have on….'

This shows you've done your homework.

• Be authentic:

If it feels awkward to ask for help, say so. People appreciate honesty and it may actually make them more inclined to assist.

‘I feel a bit nervous messaging you, but…”

“I’m new to this whole networking thing, so..”

• Ask for advice:

'Based on your experience, what are some of the key skills to succeed in a role like yours at [Company's Name]?'

Remember, you're not asking for a job, you're seeking advice.

• Offer value:

'If there's ever anything I can assist you with, feel free to ask.'

This makes the conversation a two-way street. Not only are you learning from them, but you're also open to helping.

Networking isn’t a one-way transaction. It’s about mutual benefits.

• Voice Notes:

I’ve started using the voice-message feature recently. It really helps build that connection with people (when they understand my accent)

Remember, you're not trying to 'win' a job with a few well-crafted LinkedIn messages.

You're building a relationship, gathering insights, and learning about potential opportunities. In future newsletters, I’ll show you how to build on these opening conversations.

If you would like to receive them on a Friday morning, be sure to hit subscribe.

You can read my previous newsletters here.

P.S.

I just started a Twitter account. Let’s connect.

@strategytime23