Six Degrees of Separation & The Power Of Linkedin

Building your contact list with Linkedin

Back in 2008, I was invited to a work related conference. Somebody mentioned the six degrees of separation. This theory discusses  how we can be connected to anyone in the world through at the very most 6 people. As the conversation proceeded the lady given us an example. She said: “So within 6 people you could know David Bowie”.  I was amazed, because I know someone who knows David Bowie through this theory. According to this theory, this is how I could contact David Bowie.

1. My father knows a businessman
2. The businessman has a painting of David Bowie on his wall
3. The businessman has the met the person who sold him the painting
4. The person who sold him the painting would know the artist
5. The artist painted David Bowie and of course, would have met David Bowie

This is how we network. Anybody who is in business and including us bloggers must maximise any networking opportunities. There are variety of ways to meet and communicate with people including: conferences, events, meetings and by using Linkedin.

Why use Linkedin?

Linkedin is the biggest business networking site. It is a wonderful site where millions of business people are online. You can network with people all other the world on Linkedin. In business today: “it is not what you know, it is who you know”. Networking is a vital component for anyone in business. Networking with other business minded people can generate opportunities. I am a fan of opportunities and I am sure you are. Here are some of the benefits of using Linkedin.

1. Linkedin is a great place to show your CV and your portfolio.
   If you are looking for a job or business ventures a majority of employers do use Linkedin as their first port of call. Linkedin has a feature to search for jobs. This is handy for those looking for work too.  Plus if you have worked with people in your Linkedin network you are able to ask for recommendations. This is a nice way of building a dynamic CV.
2. Looking for help
   If you are stuck on something there is always going to be someone that has the answer. Linkedin is great for asking for help from a professional in your chosen field. I’ve asked questions from some of the top people in my field and they are very helpful and friendly. I was surprised, but the people at the top want to help as well. If you are passionate about their niche and take an interest people are more than happy to help.
3. Generate traffic to your blog or website
   Linkedin has features to link to your WordPress blog and this provides more exposure to your Linkedin connections. The key is to spread the word about your business as much as possible. Linkedin is a great opportunity to do this as it is aimed directly at your target market.
4. Potential of more sales
   Business people know other business people and the potential to know people that need your services.Networking is vital.

Do you use Linkedin at all? If not, it is worth investing some time into creating an account. If anyone wants to network with me on Linkedin please feel free to do so. I look forward to hearing from you.