The Art of Effective Networking: Why You Should Send the First Connection Request

Patricia Baronowski-Schneider
3 min readAug 26, 2024

The Art of Effective Networking: Why You Should Send the First Connection Request

Social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and others are powerful tools for networking, but there’s a right way to make connections. We’ve all seen those comments: “Let’s connect” or “DM me.” While well-intentioned, these messages can feel impersonal and lack the initiative that effective networking requires. If you’re genuinely interested in connecting, the best approach is to take the first step — send a connection request yourself.

Why Initiating the Connection Matters

When you send a connection request, you demonstrate initiative and interest, both of which are crucial in building professional relationships. It shows that you’ve taken the time to research the person, understand their background, and have a specific reason for wanting to connect. A personalized message explaining who you are and why you believe a connection would be mutually beneficial sets a positive tone for the relationship. This approach not only makes you stand out but also increases the likelihood of your request being accepted.

How to Make a Meaningful Connection

  1. Research Before You Reach Out: Before sending a connection request, spend a few…

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Patricia Baronowski-Schneider

High-level expertise in the IR/PR/Marketing/Media Relations field. Placing clients in front of their ideal audience. 35 yrs exp. 3x Author