‘Follow’ or ‘connect’ – that is the Linkedin dilemma. Does it really make a big difference? It depends on the situation. Connecting with someone may give you access to more information, while following someone keeps you informed of his or her activities. It is up to you to decide which option suits you best.
They may seem to play a similar role, but in reality they all have unique qualities and benefits that can support your career development in different ways.
The purpose of this article is to deepen your understanding of these concepts and how you can get the most out of them to maximize your LinkedIn experience. Then you participate, instead of standing on the margins, and build meaningful relationships and gain valuable insights.
Are you interested in getting started?
Unlocking the Potential of LinkedIn: A Guide to Following and Connecting
Navigating the intricacies of LinkedIn’s ‘follow’ and ‘connect’ options is critical to harnessing the full potential of this professional networking platform. Let’s dive deeper into the key differences of each feature.
Following LinkedIn: Broadening perspectives
When you choose to follow someone on LinkedIn, you subscribe to their professional updates without reciprocity. Imagine following a marketing guru who shares invaluable digital marketing insights. While you get access to their content, they remain unaware of your updates. It’s a one-way relationship.
LinkedIn Connect: building two-way bridges
Connecting with someone creates a first-degree professional relationship. Reconnecting with a remote colleague turns your connection into a mutual exchange. Connections enable direct communication, skills endorsement, and a shared network.
Follow the pros and cons of LinkedIn
Pros:
- Expanded horizons: Following leaders and influencers increases your professional knowledge
- Improved access to content: Receive curated industry updates straight to your feed
- No obligation: Keep a streamlined network aligned with your career goals
Cons:
- Limited interaction: No direct communication should hinder detailed discussions or career guidance
- One-sided relationship: The relationship remains primarily one-way, with your content potentially going unnoticed
- Potential mistakes: Important updates can get buried in the flood of content from followed connections
As we explore other aspects of LinkedIn networking, you’ll see how the following fits into the broader context of an effective LinkedIn strategy.
Advantages and disadvantages of LinkedIn Connect
Pros:
- Greater access: Discover not only the profile of your connection, but also their network
- Direct communication: Connect for direct messaging, encouraging professional inquiries and collaborations
- Stronger involvement: Connected individuals are more likely to engage with your content
Cons:
- Privacy concerns: Connecting with unknown people may result in unwanted messages
- Diluted content: Accepting too many connections outside your industry can clutter your feed
- Connection limit: LinkedIn limits you to 30,000 first-degree connections, which encourages selectivity
LinkedIn connections should be strategic and intentional. They are not intended to collect connections, but to build meaningful professional relationships.
The benefits of followers versus connections on LinkedIn
Benefits of having followers:
- Greater range: Build a professional audience for your content
- Engagement potential: Followers can interact, share and increase your visibility
- Showcase for Thoughtful Leadership: Showcase your expertise through regular posts
Advantages of direct connections:
- Two-way communication: Establish personal relationships and facilitate direct involvement
- Networking capabilities: Connections can introduce you to their connections, expanding your network
- Professional relationship building: More intimate relationships lead to mutual benefits
I believe that having followers and connections on LinkedIn is valuable. Followers increase your visibility and reach, while connections allow you to interact and network with other professionals on a personal level.
Connect or follow: make the decision
The decision to connect or follow depends on your career goals and the nature of your relationship with LinkedIn connections. Two scenarios illustrate the decision-making process:
- Network event connection: Connect with a like-minded person for possible collaboration
- Industry leader follows: Follow influential figures to show interest and gain valuable insights
You can improve the quality of your network and boost your career development by taking a multi-faceted approach to your LinkedIn activities. Understanding what works for you and finding a balance that best suits your professional goals is always key.
Importance: followers or connections?
The followers vs. connections debate depends on your career goals. Finding a balance between the two will help you maximize your professional image and opportunities on LinkedIn. My advice to you is not to choose one over the other. Instead, create a balanced strategy. It is not always about quantity, but about quality and strategic coordination.
Follow vs Connect on LinkedIn: Top Tips
Increasing quality of followers
- Be proactive in sharing industry insights
- Join LinkedIn groups related to your expertise
Create meaningful connections
Personalize your connection requests
It’s always a good idea to send a personal message explaining why you’re interested in connecting.
Talk to your connections
By responding to their messages, messaging them, and contacting them, you keep the relationship alive.
Strategic connections
Prioritize quality over quantity by connecting with those who align with your goals.
How do you connect versus follow people on LinkedIn?
To follow a user on LinkedIn:
- Find the person
- Click the ‘Follow’ button on their profile page
How to connect with a user on LinkedIn:
- Find the person
- Click the ‘Connect’ button and add a personal note
The choice is yours!
Mastering LinkedIn’s follow and connect features may seem tricky, but keep in mind that it’s a journey that builds important professional bonds. This escapade will reveal exciting opportunities to expand your network, follow industry pioneers, and forge vital connections that have the potential to shape your career trajectory.
You are in control! Use these tools wisely and pave the way to a career development that is not only successful but also fulfilling.
Visit our LinkedIn section today for some extra advice!
