Advice on Expanding Your Network on LinkedIn

I recently began working on a recruiting assignment for one of our portfolio companies: Prognosis, located in Houston, TX. In the past as a recruiter I have mainly focused on openings on the East Coast. Texas was a new area for me, and I spent some time figuring out how to get in touch and tap into the Houston area network. Over the past few days I have learned some quick and simple tips for expanding your LinkedIn network, especially when dealing with a brand new region.

Join Relevant Groups

This is probably the easiest way to begin expanding your network and building new connections. After joining a group, instantly you are able to view members in the area that are related to your search. Once you’ve joined a group, be active. Post in the discussion section or comment on others’ discussions. You will will build your presence which will lead to new connections.

Connect, Connect, Connect!

Seriously, connect with everyone that you can. I find it’s best to be completely honest in the “personal message” section. For example: “I’m trying to build my professional network in Houston – please connect with me.” You will be amazed how exponentially your network grows from only a few added connections. Keep at it daily and you will see results. Once you have a solid network in a particular area, searches will deliver a higher quantity result. It will be easier to reach out to candidates if they see that several users connect you together rather than just one or two.

Personalize Your Profile

I find that LinkedIn users are more likely to connect if your profile portrays you as a real individual. The more personal your page is the better. In the “Summary” section add on a few lines about yourself. It doesn’t have to be all business. Explain yourself professionally and then add a few things you enjoy doing, like sports, reading, dancing. People will view you as an actual person, not just a droid hunting for your network or contact info.

In addition, make sure to update your page regularly. Whether you are adding a status, or sharing an article or blog post, as long as you represent yourself as a regular user you will find more connections coming your way. From this activity, others can sense that you truly use LinkedI

n to communicate or voice your opinion, not only to headhunt. Also, by sharing information through articles, you are giving something back to your network that accepted your connection request.

Although at first it may be difficult to tap into a network in a new area, whether you are recruiting or have recently moved these tips will ensure you build up your network quickly and easily!