LinkedIn’s Connect feature allows you to send connection requests to other LinkedIn members to grow your professional network. But is it the same as sending a friend request on Facebook or other social networks? There are some key differences between Connect on LinkedIn and friend requests on other platforms.
What is Connect on LinkedIn?
The Connect feature on LinkedIn allows you to send requests to connect with other members in order to build up your network of professional contacts. When you send a connection request to another member, they have the option to accept or ignore the request.
If they accept your request, you will become connected on LinkedIn. This allows you to view each other’s profiles, see updates, message each other, and more. Being connected on LinkedIn is a way to strengthen your professional network and relationships.
Key Differences Between LinkedIn Connect and Social Media Friend Requests
While LinkedIn Connect functions similarly to friend requests on other social networks in some ways, there are some important differences:
1. Professional vs. Personal
LinkedIn is focused on professional networking and building business relationships. Friending someone on sites like Facebook is much more casual and social. The connections you make on LinkedIn should be professional contacts, colleagues, clients, etc. in most cases.
2. Selective vs. Open
Most people are highly selective about who they connect with on LinkedIn, while social media sites like Facebook encourage you to friend everyone you know. LinkedIn connections are meant to be professional contacts, so users are often more discerning.
3. Two-sided vs. One-sided
On LinkedIn, a connection request needs to be accepted by the other user before you are connected. With sites like Facebook, you can friend someone without them needing to approve it.
4. Visible vs. Private
Your LinkedIn connections are publicly visible to anyone who views your profile. On sites like Facebook, your friends list is usually only visible to your existing friends by default.
5. Contact History vs. No History
It’s expected on LinkedIn that you only connect with people you have some history of contact with – whether you’ve met in person, worked together, etc. Facebook friend requests don’t require any previous relationship.
When to Use the Connect Feature
As a LinkedIn user, when should you use the Connect feature? Here are some common instances when sending a connection request is appropriate:
- You’ve worked with the person professionally and want to stay in touch.
- You’ve met the person in real life at an event, conference, etc.
- The person works at a company you want to build a relationship with.
- You want to interact with someone whose work you admire.
- A mutual connection suggests you connect with the person.
- You need to message someone and being connected allows that.
Essentially, if you have a professional reason for connecting with someone, go ahead and use the Connect feature. But don’t send random connection invitations just to grow your network.
Best Practices for Using Connect
To use LinkedIn’s Connect feature effectively, keep these tips in mind:
- Personalize each request with a note reminding them who you are and why you want to connect.
- Only send requests to people you have a legitimate professional reason to connect with.
- Follow up if you don’t receive a response to your request.
- Accept connection requests from those you have some familiarity with.
- Regularly monitor your notifications and accept or politely decline requests.
Pros of Connecting on LinkedIn
There are many benefits to thoughtfully using the Connect feature and building your network on LinkedIn:
- Gain access to career opportunities through contacts.
- Get business advice and insights from your network.
- Increase your visibility and personal brand.
- Build relationships with people you want to work with.
- Develop partnerships and find clients.
- Stay up-to-date on industry news and trends.
Cons of Connecting on LinkedIn
There are some potential downsides to be aware of as well:
- It can be time-consuming to manage a large network.
- You may receive unwanted messages and sales pitches.
- Some connections may share too much or inappropriate content.
- Your network can see your profile activity and updates.
- It’s hard to remove connections if the relationship sours.
Conclusion
While LinkedIn’s Connect feature is similar to friending someone on social media in some respects, there are significant differences that revolve around LinkedIn’s focus on professional networking. Connect requests should only be sent to improve your professional relationships and opportunities. With care and discretion, Connect can be a valuable tool to build your visibility and circle of useful contacts on LinkedIn.
