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

LinkedIn is one of the most powerful professional networking platforms, enabling individuals and businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow.

However, understanding the difference of LinkedIn connections especially 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections is crucial for leveraging the platform effectively.

These differences influence visibility, engagement, and messaging capabilities.

What Are LinkedIn Connections then?

On LinkedIn, your network consists of people you are directly or indirectly connected with.

Unlike other social media platforms where you can follow or add anyone freely, LinkedIn categorizes your connections based on degrees of separation. 

These degrees define the extent of your relationship with another user and determine your level of interaction with them.

1st-Degree Connections

A 1st-degree connection is someone you are directly connected with on LinkedIn. This means you have either sent them a connection request and they accepted, or they sent you a request which you accepted.

What You Can Do With 1st Connections:
  1. You can send direct messages to your 1st-degree connections without restrictions.
  2. Their posts and updates appear on your feed, and vice versa.
  3. You can see their full profile, including contact details (if shared).
  4. You can endorse and recommend them, and they can do the same for you.
2nd-Degree Connections

A 2nd-degree connection is someone who is connected to your 1st-degree connections but not directly connected to you.

What You Can Do With 2nd Connections:
  1. You can see their name, headline, and profile summary.
  2. You can send them a connection request.
  3. You cannot send direct messages unless using LinkedIn InMail (premium feature).
  4. You can interact with their posts and comments if privacy settings allow.
3rd-Degree Connections

A 3rd-degree connection is someone who is connected to your 2nd-degree connections but not directly linked to you or your 1st-degree contacts.

What You Can Do With 2nd Connections:
  1. You may see their name and profile, but some details might be restricted depending on their privacy settings.
  2. You can send them a connection request if their profile allows.
  3. You cannot message them unless you use LinkedIn InMail (premium feature).
  4. You may have limited visibility into their content and activity.

How to Leverage 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-Degree Connections for Networking

1. Strengthen Your 1st-Degree Connections
Engage with their posts, comment thoughtfully, and share valuable insights.

2. Expand Your Network with 2nd-Degree Connections
Identify valuable 2nd-degree connections by looking at mutual contacts.
Send personalized connection requests mentioning mutual interests or contacts.

3. Approach 3rd-Degree Connections Strategically
If possible, request introductions through mutual connections.
Engage with their content before sending a connection request.

NB: Understanding the distinctions between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections on LinkedIn is essential for effective networking.

Sources:
-LinkedIn
-Chatgpt