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: Follow is typically the default button you'll see under someone's headline on their profile. If you want to Connect instead, you may need to click on the More button to find that option.
🟢 ACTION: When you do send a connection request, always add a short personal note.
"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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