The Advantages of Increasing Linkedin Connections
Each week, LinkedIn grows by about 1 million members. According to the social networking site, the total number of professionals using LinkedIn to connect with each other is more than 100 million. There are numerous advantages to increasing the number of connections you have on LinkedIn. The more connections you have, the greater opportunities you have for professional growth.
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LinkedIn Overview
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LinkedIn made its official debut in 2003. The site offers both free and paid accounts to professionals and employers. With any account, members are encouraged to seek out connections to build their networks. These connections can consist of past and present colleagues and bosses, college friends, professors and professionals you have met through networking events, conferences and more. When you add someone to your network, you are giving them the ability to see the details of your profile, including your job history, skills and interests, as well as the names of your other connections.
Job Opportunities
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One of the greatest advantages of increasing your LinkedIn connections is expanded visibility, which can come in handy when looking for a job. The more connections you have via LinkedIn, the more apt you are to learn about and seek out job opportunities. Even if you are not directly connected to a hiring manager or decision maker, you can use your connections to introduce you to them. You can use your LinkedIn profile and status updates to let your connections know you are looking for a job and to bring to light your qualifications.
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Professional Opportunities
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In addition to job opportunities, LinkedIn members can find professional opportunities such as speaking engagements and freelance work through their connections. Similar to finding job prospects, you can use your LinkedIn connections to uncover additional professional opportunities. By increasing your connections, you can learn more about networking events, conferences and speakers bureaus to both attend and take part in as a presenter. Again, the more people who have access to your profile, the more likely you are to receive invitations and inquiries to enhance your professional profile.
Expert Resources and Answers
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While the Web offers you a depth of information on just about every subject imaginable, it is not always easy to know which information you can trust. Your LinkedIn connections represent people you know who are inclined to have first-hand knowledge of your job, company or industry. The more connections you have, the more go-to resources you have for vetting ideas and asking questions.
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References
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