Unlock your Networking Potential: Expert Tips from LinkedIn’s Co-Founder
As I delved into The Startup of You, co authored by Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the notion that each of us is an entrepreneur of our own destiny. The book emphasizes the point that the essence of entrepreneurship lies in creation, and networking serves as a gateway to unlocking pivotal career opportunities. Reid Hoffman, the co-founder of LinkedIn, a professional social networking platform, provides invaluable insights throughout the book, particularly in Chapter 3, where he shares essential networking tips.
Why Networking Matters:
Networking is so important because it will allow for pivotal career opportunities to show up at our doorstep thanks to a person in our network (97). Hoffman emphasizes that career breakthroughs often come knocking through connections within our network. By nurturing these relationships, we create a reciprocal flow of resources and support that push us towards our goals. Growth is rarely done on our own and by cultivating a diverse team of allies, we exponentially enhance our potential for success (96).
Building Meaningful Connections:
Instead of cold-inviting everyone with a heartbeat, Hoffman advocates for a mindset shift towards offering genuine assistance and understanding. Real networking often stems from empathizing with the other person’s perspective and offering collaboration (100). Even when we perceive ourselves as less experienced or powerful, the act of extending a helping hand can forge lasting bonds that fuel mutual growth (122).
The Power of Networks
Within our networks, Hoffman outlines three distinct types of connections: allies, friendlies, and followers. I’ll be focusing on the friendlies, because they are often the people who are able to bring great opportunities to us. Friendlies are not necessarily our closest acquaintances but they do possess unique insights and connections that can help significant career leaps.
Harnessing the “Three Degrees of Separation”:
Have you ever wondered what the “1st”, “2nd”, and “3rd” next to people’s profiles on LinkedIn meant? Hoffman reveals the strategy behind these degrees of separation, highlighting the importance of the second and third degree spots.
The theory behind these connections is that every individual is linked to every other through approximately 6 intermediary acquaintances. However, to be introduced to someone further removed is almost impossible, as individuals are often not aware of mutual connections that facilitate such introductions. Yet, the 2nd and 3rd degree represent the sweet spot, enabling connections through introductions.
For example, Reid Hoffman is 3 degrees away from me. If I have an opportunity that could benefit both of us, I could ask my friend A who knows a friend B who knows Reid Hoffman for an introduction. With an email with my clear intent, person A could add a personal note on top and send it to person B, and B could do the same to send it to Hoffman. A and B would be willing to help since during the process, they could gain social capital. There is also a higher chance that Hoffman would connect with me since it is through his friend B.
Hoffman points out in the book that if we are not having at least one introduction per month, we are not fully engaged in our extended network (119).
Taking Action
I know there is a lot of information stuffed in this blog, and I encourage you to take some time to digest the information and inspire action. Consider taking a proactive step towards expanding your network by seeking an introduction to someone 2 degrees away who could benefit from this connection!
Hope to hear great news from you. If you want to reach out to me here is my email: zhanghz@umich.edu.
Han Zhang