Discover a little-known LinkedIn secret

You probably know that LinkedIn is a massive business database. But do you know how best to tap into it?

At the top of every LinkedIn page is a dark grey search bar.

The default is set to search ‘all’, as you can see by the three-line ‘list’ icon on the left beside the drop-down arrow.

Click the word ‘advanced ‘on the right – this will open a new ‘people’ search window.

Ignore the third column with the gold icons. This feature is only available to (paid) premium users.

In the second column, tick the box marked ‘2nd connections’.

In the first column, type your desired search details. For example, keyword ‘copywriting’ within 10 miles of postcode ‘BR3 4HL’.

A list of your 2nd level connections will appear.

If you click the down pointing arrow beside the ‘connect’ button, you will see an option called ‘get introduced’. If you want, LinkedIn will walk you through the process of an online introduction. But I recommend an alternative approach.

Here’s the powerful bit

Under each name will be a green link showing how many connections you both share.

Click the green link to see who they are.

Instead of using the impersonal LinkedIn interface, pick up the phone and contact one or more of your 1st level connections. Ask how well they know your target individual. Explain why you would like to connect with them. Perhaps they will be willing to introduce you? You could arrange a three-way Skype conference call or Google Hangout? Maybe you could all meet for coffee or lunch?

When a mutual connection arranges an introduction for you, it’s much more likely to be warmly received than a cold call. If nothing else, it’s a good chance to reconnect with a 1st level contact. And if it works out, remember to thank your introducer appropriately.

Try this tip and see your results flow. Let me know how you get on in the comments below.

photo credit: Joe Shlabotnik via photopin cc