LinkedIn is a professional social networking platform that allows users to connect with each other. There are different levels of connections that can be formed on LinkedIn depending on how well you know the other person.
First Level Connections
First level connections are people you are directly connected to on LinkedIn. This usually includes people you know well professionally such as colleagues, clients, former classmates etc. First level connections allow you to view the full profile and activity updates of the other person if their privacy settings allow it.
To form a first level connection on LinkedIn, you need to send a connection request which the other person needs to accept. Once they accept, you will be connected at the first level. First level connections are displayed in your LinkedIn network panel.
Second Level Connections
Second level connections refer to people who are connected to your first level connections. For example, if John is your first level connection, all of John’s connections would be your second level connections. You can see the profiles of second level connections but with limited information.
You cannot directly interact or contact second level connections unless you or your shared connection sends a connection invitation which is accepted. Second level connections are useful in expanding your overall professional network on LinkedIn.
Third Level Connections
Third level connections are connections of your second level connections. You can see limited profile information of third level connections. The profiles are typically restricted to name, location, company and industry. There is no interaction capability with third level connections.
Third level connections indicate an extended professional network but are too distant to leverage directly unless a closer connection is formed.
Group Connections
Apart from individual connections, you can also join common interest groups on LinkedIn based on your industry, profession, school etc. Group connections allow you to interact with other group members through forums and discussions.
Some groups are restricted and you need approval from the group manager to join. Others are open groups that you can freely join and participate in. Groups are a good way to connect to professionals with shared interests.
Summary of LinkedIn Connection Levels
| Connection Level | Description | Interaction Capability |
|---|---|---|
| First Level | Direct connections in your network | Full profile access, direct messaging |
| Second Level | Connections of your connections | Limited profile access, no direct interaction |
| Third Level | Connections extended network | Very limited profile info, no interaction |
| Group | Members of common interest groups | Interaction through group forums, discussions |
As the above table summarizes, your ability to interact and leverage connections decreases as the level increases. First level connections are the most valuable followed by group connections based on common interests.
Benefits of Expanding Your LinkedIn Network
Here are some of the benefits of growing your LinkedIn connections at all levels:
- Stay updated about new opportunities and roles through connections
- Gain new perspectives and insights from diverse professionals
- Enhance your professional reputation and personal brand
- Tap into the expertise and knowledge of your connections
- Get introductions to useful business contacts
- Increase visibility for your own content and updates
- Build relationships with potential clients or partners
- Exchange ideas and feedback through group interactions
Tips to Expand Your LinkedIn Network
Here are some tips to grow your LinkedIn connections:
- Proactively send personalized invites explaining the basis for your request
- Participate actively in LinkedIn groups and discussions
- Follow companies to connect with their employees
- Recommend connections to expand your second-level network
- Use advanced search to find connections by industry, company etc
- Publish and share relevant updates to increase visibility
- Attend industry events and conferences to meet professionals
- Follow up with people you meet to connect on LinkedIn
Maximizing the Value of Your LinkedIn Network
Here are some ways to derive maximum value from your LinkedIn connections:
- Engage regularly with your connections by liking and commenting
- Participate in group discussions to establish thought leadership
- Provide thoughtful recommendations for your connections
- Send personalized messages to introduce connections
- Share advice and insights that add value for connections
- Offer to help your connections network or find opportunities
- Keep your own profile updated with latest experience
- Congratulate your network on work anniversaries and promotions
- Learn about the interests and needs of your connections
- Monitor your network’s updates for useful information
Conclusion
LinkedIn offers several levels of connections from direct first level connections to extended third level connections. The most value comes from first level direct connections as well as group connections based on shared interests. The key is to proactively expand your network while also deepening engagement with existing connections. This expands your professional reach while allowing you to mutually support each other’s career development and growth.