#033 - How to Network on LinkedIn – Top 5 Ways
When you talk about “networking,” what do you mean?
Is it simply increasing your follower count? Is it collecting names of people in high corporate positions to ask for favours later? Is it just about receiving information, commendation, or service?
In its truest form, networking is a two-way interaction between parties willing to help each other grow. It involves meaningful conversations, mutual interest in each other's work, offering solutions, and supporting each other during tough times.
Let’s explore how you can leverage LinkedIn’s features to expand your network.
1. Personalised Connection Requests
A "Connection Request" is a polite invitation to join someone's professional network and vice versa. It's a mutual follow that allows both parties to view each other’s posts on the main feed, communicate via direct messages, endorse each other, and explore their shared connections.
When sending a connection request to someone important, remember that they likely receive many requests. To grab people’s attention, your request must stand out. Else, there must be a specific purpose behind your connection request.

Here’s how you can personalize your connection request note:
First, mention how you came across their profile. Explain why you're reaching out and share any future collaboration opportunities you see. Finally, end with a clear call to action.
2. Consistent Mindful Engagement
On LinkedIn, remember that the best way to find connections is to remain active throughout the year.

Engagement is a way to get in touch with fellow leaders and potential connections on LinkedIn. Once in a while, leave valuable comments and congratulations on posts of people and companies that you want to connect with. By engaging with their content, you are showing your support and encouragement for their work. This way, you can begin adding C-level executives to your network directly from the comment section.
3. Visitor Tracking
With LinkedIn Premium, you open up the gateway to abundant data metrics that help you network smartly.

One of the most helpful data points is the ability to track who visited your profile. You can see who's interested in discovering more about your profile and work. This allows you to filter the names you want to add to your network and reach out to them via a connection request.
The advantage here is that your lead is warm – they've already familiarized themselves with you. Now, it's time to take it to the next level.
4. Outreach Through Filtering
If you want to add a specific category of leaders to your network, you can use LinkedIn's filtering options.

Enter your domain of interest in the Search bar. You can type in commonly used keywords related to the domain or search for companies and names.
Choose which aspect of the search results you want to explore further, such as people, posts, companies, locations, degrees of connection, events, and more.
Click on 'People' to view profiles, 'Posts' to find active members, and 'Groups' to join communities.
Apply filters to refine your search and see a list of highly qualified leads for your network. Start connecting with them to expand your circle.
5. Proactive Organic Posting
The best way to expand your network and connect with notable profiles is by cultivating a strong digital brand on LinkedIn. How? Through proactive and consistent organic posting on your profile.

Develop a content strategy focused on your area of expertise and start creating relevant content. The more active you are, the more visibility you'll gain. Regularly update your profile, share your insights and opinions, and educate others on your expertise. By consistently producing valuable content, you'll attract attention and naturally grow your network.
By implementing these strategies consistently, you'll start receiving more messages and connection requests from fellow executives, potential clients, business partners, investors, and others. This will gradually help you become part of an entrepreneur leadership network.