LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking platform, with over 800 million members worldwide. Making connections is a key part of using LinkedIn, as it allows you to grow your professional network and access new opportunities. But how connected is the average LinkedIn user? Let’s take a look at the data on the typical number of connections people have on LinkedIn.
The Average Number of LinkedIn Connections
According to LinkedIn’s own research, the average number of connections for members is around 303. This number comes from a 2021 analysis of LinkedIn members in the United States. Here are some key facts about the average number of LinkedIn connections:
- The median number of connections is 186.
- Women on average have more connections than men, with 313 vs. 291 connections respectively.
- People early in their careers tend to have fewer connections, while senior professionals have larger networks.
So while 303 is the overall average, the actual number of connections an individual has can vary significantly based on their career stage, industry, location, and how actively they use LinkedIn.
How Network Size Varies by Industry and Role
While 303 may be the overall average, the typical number of LinkedIn connections varies quite a bit based on a person’s industry, job role, and seniority level. Here’s an overview of how network size differs across different segments:
| Industry | Average Connections |
|---|---|
| Software & IT | 313 |
| Media & Communications | 395 |
| Education | 407 |
| Finance & Banking | 428 |
As this table shows, certain industries like tech and finance tend to have more connections, likely due to the emphasis on networking in those sectors. Education and media professionals also connect with large numbers of contacts over their careers.
| Role | Average Connections |
|---|---|
| Individual Contributors | 288 |
| Managers | 338 |
| Directors | 403 |
| VPs & Executives | 626 |
Seniority level also correlates with more connections, with VPs and executives averaging over 600 connections. More experienced professionals have had more time to build their networks over the years.
How Active Usage Impacts Your Network Size
In addition to industry and role, how actively a person engages on LinkedIn also impacts their number of connections. Here are some ways that usage behaviors affect your network size:
- Accepting connection requests – Accepting incoming requests from coworkers, colleagues, etc. grows your network.
- Sending connection invites – Proactively connecting with new contacts by sending invites.
- Joining LinkedIn groups – Active participation in LinkedIn groups leads to new connections.
- Engaging with content – Liking, commenting, and sharing content can lead to new connections.
- Using search tools – Actively searching for and connecting with relevant profiles using LinkedIn search.
Members who actively participate on LinkedIn through the above behaviors tend to have larger networks than more passive users. But it’s about quality as well as quantity – actively engaging with your connections strengthens ties.
Tips for Growing Your Network
If your current number of LinkedIn connections is lower than you’d like, there are some effective strategies you can use to gradually grow your professional network. Here are some best practices:
Connect With Colleagues and Classmates
Think about current and former coworkers, colleagues, and classmates that you want to stay in touch with. Chances are many of them are already LinkedIn members. Search for them and send a connection invite with a customized message.
Participate in Industry Groups
Join relevant industry groups on LinkedIn that align with your professional interests and goals. Engage in thoughtful discussions and connect with other like-minded members.
Follow Companies You Admire
Follow companies you want to work for or admire. This puts their employees’ profiles on your radar for future networking opportunities.
Connect After In-Person Interactions
If you meet someone in-person at a conference, event, etc. and find them interesting, connect with them afterward by sending a LinkedIn invitation.
Provide Value to Your Connections
Post interesting content and insights that your connections will find valuable. This provides a reason for new professionals to connect with you.
Use Advanced Search Filters
Leverage LinkedIn’s advanced search filters to find connections by location, company, job title, skills, and more. Reach out specifically to professionals you want in your network.
Follow Up on Warm Introductions
If someone introduces you to a contact over email, follow up by sending that person a LinkedIn connection request and mentioning the introduction.
Benefits of Growing Your Network
While the quality of your connections matters more than pure quantity, there are still several advantages to organically growing your professional network on LinkedIn:
- Stay on the radar for new career opportunities
- Gain access to insider knowledge and unique perspectives
- Expand your professional brand’s visibility
- Collaborate with a wider range of colleagues
- Gain supporters that can provide references
- Tap into the “power of weak ties”
At the end of the day, LinkedIn is based on the simple premise that relationships matter. Nurturing an ever-expanding network creates more doors and possibilities for your career over the long run.
Conclusion
While 303 connections is LinkedIn’s statistical average, most professionals have room to grow their networks substantially over time. Focus on quality over quantity, and actively engage with your connections by sharing valuable insights. Leverage search tools, groups, and events to connect with relevant professionals in your industry and local area. Gradually expanding your LinkedIn network can significantly benefit your career.