Making LinkedIn Connections

Building LinkedIn connections can feel uncomfortable at first, especially when the goal is to make a strong impression.

A more productive approach may be to treat outreach as a professional conversation focused on learning, shared interests, and long-term relationship building.

Researching Potential Connections and Their Organizations

Before reaching out, it often helps to review a person’s LinkedIn profile and their organization’s page. Look for a detail that felt useful, interesting, or thoughtful, then use that as a natural starting point for your message.

A simple question about their background can also keep the conversation centered on learning and perspective. This approach tends to support a respectful tone and may make rapport feel more natural, without forcing the interaction.

Preparing Questions Ahead of the Conversation

Many LinkedIn conversations go more smoothly when a few questions are drafted in advance. These discussions often resemble an informal informational interview, where the focus stays on understanding a field, a subject area, or a professional path rather than making a specific request.

Consider questions such as:

• “How did you get started in this field?”

• “What experiences helped shape your focus?”

• “What do you find most rewarding or challenging about this area?”

• “What helped you build your skills early on?”

Preparing questions in advance signals respect for the other person’s time and shows the conversation is being approached with intention.

Follow-Up Messages That Continue the Conversation

After a conversation, a brief thank-you message often fits well. A good follow-up can reference one point that stood out as especially helpful, then close with a simple note of appreciation.

If there was a topic that did not fully come up, a follow-up message may also include one additional question, as long as it stays concise and respectful.

Avoid Early Requests

One common misstep is turning an early LinkedIn interaction into a request for personal favors or special help. That framing can distract from the purpose of the conversation and may come across as transactional.

A clearer goal is a thoughtful first impression, a focused discussion, and the chance to learn from someone’s experience. Over time, consistent and professional communication can support stronger connections that feel genuine rather than forced.

When you’re ready to take the next step in your educational journey, enrolling in a degree program may help you network with instructors, classmates and support teams as you learn more about your field. Explore AIU’s online degree programs to find an option that fits your academic goals and schedule.

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