Here's a thought experiment: imagine your network in 2 years.
Who do you want in it? Who do you want to know? Who do you want knowing YOU?
That vision should drive every connection request you send.
The intentional connection profile:
Before clicking "Connect," ask:
- Can this person hire me, refer me, or collaborate with me?
- Do they share insights I'd actually want to see?
- Would they open doors I can't open myself?
- Would I genuinely want to help them if they asked?
If you can't answer yes to at least one, think twice.
Strategic targets by goal:
If you're job hunting:
- Recruiters specializing in your industry
- Hiring managers at target companies
- Employees at dream companies (for insider insights)
- People who've made the career transition you want
If you're building a business:
- Potential customers (decision makers, not gatekeepers)
- Referral partners (complementary services)
- Investors (if you're fundraising)
- Industry influencers who reach your market
If you're establishing thought leadership:
- Other content creators in your niche
- Event organizers and podcast hosts
- Journalists covering your industry
- Community leaders and moderators
Where to find them:
- Engaged commenters on posts you admire
- Speakers at industry events you attend
- Authors of articles that resonate
- Alumni from your schools/companies
- Members of relevant LinkedIn groups
Evaluating incoming requests:
When someone requests YOU:
- Check mutual connections (social proof)
- Look at their profile completeness
- See if they create content (engagement potential)
- Ask why they want to connect (is there value?)
Accept if there's clear mutual benefit. Decline (or ignore) if it seems random.
The "5 new connections" weekly habit:
Each week, identify 5 people who match your strategic criteria. Send personalized connection notes. Quality over mass-requesting.
Over a year, that's 260 meaningful additions to your network.
Small, consistent action compounds into something remarkable.
The reciprocity truth:
Be the connection you wish you had. Engage with their content. Offer genuine help. Make introductions without being asked.
The best way to attract great connections is to BE one.
"Your LinkedIn presence is a compounding asset. Every post, comment, and connection adds to your professional equity." - Justin Welsh, LinkedIn creator with 1M+ followers, founder of The Saturday Solopreneur
Related resources:
- Connection request templates: Best LinkedIn Connection Request Templates
- Craft your request: LinkedIn Connection Request Composer
- Build your network: How to Build Your LinkedIn Network Strategically
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I connect with my competitors?
Yes, often! Competitors are your best source of industry news, and building a professional relationship with them can lead to referrals, collaborations, or even job opportunities down the road. Keep it professional and respectful (LinkedIn Business Blog, 2024).
Is it okay to connect with people much more senior than me?
Absolutely, but be sure to have a clear reason and a highly personalized connection note. Don't ask for a favor in your first message; instead, mention how their work has helped you or ask a thoughtful question about their journey (LinkedIn Help Center, 2025).
What should I do if a high-priority connection ignores my request?
Don't take it personally. They may be overwhelmed or simply don't check LinkedIn often. You can still "Follow" them to see their content and engage with their posts. After a few months of meaningful engagement, you should try connecting again with a new context (LinkedIn Marketing Solutions, 2024).