These are categories that LinkedIn assigns to profiles based on your own connections on LinkedIn, and they will determine who you can and cannot reach out to.
Let’s break them down a bit further.
Definitions and strategies for LinkedIn connection categories
1st degree connections and your direct network on LinkedIn
1st-degree connections are individuals you have directly connected with on the platform.
To manage and expand your direct network effectively, it’s essential to be strategic and intentional.
How to connect and foster 1st-degree connections
Connect with colleagues, industry peers, and professionals you’ve met at events. Personalize your connection requests to increase acceptance rates and lay the groundwork for meaningful interactions.
Bear in mind that your 1st degree connections are likely to see your posts on LinkedIn, so in order to properly engage with them and attract them, you need solid posts. But fear not, we’ve got your back.
12 Genius Ways To Start A LinkedIn Post (That Goes Mega Viral)
2nd degree connections
One step away from your immediate circle are the 2nd-degree connections.
These individuals are connected to your 1st-degree connections and algeria phone number list represent a large network of potential contacts you can leverage to extend your professional reach.
Bridge role of 2nd degree LinkedIn Connections: Recognizing the value of these connections is crucial as they can serve as bridges to new opportunities and introductions to other professionals.
How to reach out to 2nd degree connections without being overbearing: The key is subtlety and mutual benefit. Request introductions through mutual connections or engage with their content to naturally build rapport before reaching out directly.
Remember that you won’t be able to message your 2nd and 3rd degree connections, as you haven’t connected with them yet.
You can either send a connection request or use LinkedIn InMail!
If you want some tips on what to write and what to avoid in your connection requests, check out this video!
3rd degree connections and their potential
3rd-degree connections are individuals who are connected to your 2nd-degree connections.
While more distant, they can still play a role in expanding your network further.
The impact of 3rd-degree connections within your LinkedIn Network: Although they are the outermost layer of your direct network, 3rd degree connections can significantly extend your reach and uncover opportunities that may not be accessible otherwise.
How to contact 3rd-degree connections: Use LinkedIn’s introduction features or join common groups to facilitate initial contact. Engage thoughtfully with their content to establish a connection before sending a direct message.
Source: LinkedIn
LinkedIn member (out of network)
LinkedIn members with the out of network message in their profiles are so far away from your network that you don’t share any connections with them.
But you can still reach out and connect with them.
If you have InMail credits and if the option is available, you can contact them through LinkedIn InMail.
Lear how to make use of LinkedIn’s algorithm
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Connection presentation on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s algorithm takes into account shared interests, mutual connections, work history, and group memberships to suggest potential new 1st-degree connections.
With 2nd and3rd degreeconnections, you will see an icon stating the degree of the connection, and you will be able to get closer to them by using the “Connect” or “Follow” buttons.
Strategies to share content tailored to different LinkedIn connection levels
Content sharing on LinkedIn should be tailored to resonate with different tiers of connections.
Check out this video and start writing viral posts!
