LinkedIn is highly rated in the category of \u201cmust have\u201d social networks. Although they suggest a standard rule of connecting only to people you know, some users realize that this rule does not utilize the full potential of LinkedIn\u2019s ability to build large networks.<\/p>\n
Users with 500+ connections are generally known as LIONs (LinkedIn Open Networkers) and while they might not personally know all of the people in their network, they realize the importance of connecting with new people. After all, isn\u2019t that what social networking is all about?<\/p>\n
LIONs are beneficial in the fact that they have the ability to connect closed networks and get recognized. People with a larger number of connections are more valuable than people with a smaller number.<\/p>\n
So how do you get ahead in this professional popularity contest? While there\u2019s no definite \u201chow to\u201d answer, a good way to start would be taking advantage of and utilizing all of the people you do know (whether it be from past or present jobs, schools or events) by adding them to your network.<\/p>\n
If after adding all of your known connections you still believe your network is lacking, the next step might be to consider inviting in a LION. They\u2019re generally identified by having the LION acronym next to their name in their headline. While they\u2019re a good way to build your network, it is important to exercise some caution when hunting for and sending invites to LIONs.<\/p>\n