How to Connect with People on LinkedIn in 2025

Whether you’re launching a new business, changing careers, or entering a new industry, knowing how to connect with people on LinkedIn is essential in 2025. As the top professional networking platform, LinkedIn gives you the tools to grow meaningful relationships, find job opportunities, and generate leads for your business.

While platforms like Facebook are great for personal use, LinkedIn is where real professional networking happens. It allows you to build credibility, connect with like-minded professionals, and even reach out to decision-makers in your industry.

Why LinkedIn Connections Matter

Unlike other social networks, LinkedIn doesn’t let you freely follow or connect with just anyone. Instead, your ability to connect often depends on your current network, shared contacts, and how relevant or appealing your profile is to the person you’re trying to reach.

For B2B professionals, LinkedIn is also a highly effective tool for prospecting and lead generation. With over 1 billion members worldwide, it’s one of the easiest ways to identify and engage with potential clients and partners.

How to Connect with People on LinkedIn (The Right Way)

If you're wondering how to grow your LinkedIn network, here are the best ways to send connection requests and start conversations:

1. Connect Directly from a User’s Profile

Visit their profile and click “Connect”. Always include a personalized message to increase your chances of acceptance.

2. Import Your Contacts

Use the Grow Your Network feature to sync your email contacts and find people you already know.

3. Use LinkedIn Search

Search for specific individuals or job titles, and use the “Connect” button next to their profile in the results.

4. Respond to Connection Requests

Go to the My Network tab to view and accept any pending invitations from other users.

5. Get Introductions Through Mutual Contacts

If you share a mutual connection, ask them to introduce you—just like in real-life networking.

6. Use “People You May Know” Suggestions

LinkedIn suggests potential connections based on your profile activity and network. You can connect directly from there.

LinkedIn Etiquette: What You Should and Shouldn’t Do

Before you start sending out invitations, it's important to understand LinkedIn etiquette. This is a professional space, so the tone and approach should reflect that.

Do:

• Personalize your requests with a friendly, relevant message.

• Be strategic—connect with people who align with your industry, interests, or goals.

• Offer mutual value—explain how the connection can benefit both of you.

Don’t:

• Spam people with generic or overly salesy messages.

• Send mass connection requests just to grow numbers.

• Pitch your services immediately after connecting.

Following these best practices helps you build a professional reputation and grow a high-quality network.

Understanding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-Degree Connections on LinkedIn

If you’ve noticed labels like “1st”, “2nd”, or “3rd” next to someone’s name, here’s what they mean:

• 1st-Degree: These are people you’re directly connected with. You can message them freely.

• 2nd-Degree: These users are connected to someone in your network. You can connect with a note or message them using InMail.

• 3rd-Degree: These users are one step further removed. You might need a mutual connection or a group in common to message them.

You may also encounter profiles outside your network (no degree listed). If you can’t connect directly, try reaching out via LinkedIn groups or send an InMail (available with LinkedIn Premium).

How to Increase Your Success Rate When Reaching Out

If you want your connection requests to be accepted, take the time to personalize your message. Here’s how:

1. Research their profile to find a talking point—such as a shared interest, mutual connection, or recent post.

2. Mention why you want to connect, and highlight how it can be valuable for both sides.

3. Be respectful and clear, not salesy or overly eager.

Standing out with a thoughtful message significantly improves your chances of building a strong connection.

How to Cancel a LinkedIn Connection Request

Sent a request by accident or changed your mind? Here’s how to withdraw it:

1. Go to My Network

2. Click “See all” next to Invitations

3. Select the “Sent” tab

4. Click “Withdraw” next to the request you want to cancel

Note: Once you withdraw a request, you’ll need to wait 3 weeks before you can send another invite to the same person.

Start Building a Meaningful LinkedIn Network Today

Now that you know how to connect with people on LinkedIn, you’re ready to grow a network that supports your career and business goals.

Whether you’re job hunting, building your personal brand, or reaching out to B2B leads, success on LinkedIn depends on using the platform respectfully, strategically, and authentically.

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