Connect or Follow on LinkedIn
There's sometimes confusion about the difference between connecting and following on LinkedIn - so let me clear that up for you.
🤝 Connecting is a bit like a digital handshake. When you connect with someone (and they accept), you can both see each other's content in your feeds. It also opens up a two-way street for direct messaging, and it's the start of building a relationship.
👁️ Following is more like standing at the back of the room watching someone present - they don't necessarily know you're there. You see their content, but they won't see yours unless they follow you back. It's a one-way street, and it doesn't allow for direct messaging.
This is actually a brilliant option if you want to gently start a business relationship with someone - you can comment on their posts or like their content without diving straight in with a connection request.
So, which should you choose?
👉 Choose Connect if you want to build a mutual relationship, network, and have the ability to start a direct conversation.
👉 Choose Follow if you simply want to see someone's content and get a feel for them before connecting or simply to keep track of what they are sharing, e.g. someone you respect in your industry or on a particular topic.
💡 Finding the option: Connect is the main button on most profiles, but on those with a large following you'll see Follow instead, with Connect tucked under the More button.
🟢 ACTION: When you do send a connection request, think about adding a short note, if you feel it would be helpful as a prompt or reminder.
"Hi [name], great to meet you at Last Friday Club - Chichester yesterday, hope to catch you at the next one!" takes 10 seconds and shows you're a real human, not just collecting connections.
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