The LinkedIn Chronicles - Episode 3: "Building Connections, Not Just Contacts"
Carlos Batista
⭐Helping Coaches Turn Connections into Clients with Proven LinkedIn Strategies. ⭐ Optimize your profile. ⭐ Build your authority. ⭐ Generate consistent leads.
The familiar buzz of laptops filled the co-working space as the group gathered for their next workshop. The room had become a sanctuary—a place where transformation wasn’t just a word but a visible process unfolding. Today’s topic was one that had always been a source of debate: building connections on LinkedIn.
Jordan sat with arms crossed, a skeptical look on their face. “I get it. Networking is important, but I’ve always found it a bit... superficial. People just want to grow their numbers without any real intention.”
Alex, ever the optimist, smiled knowingly. “That’s true for some, Jordan, but meaningful connections are the ones that count. It’s not about how many contacts you have; it’s about who they are and how they align with your goals. The right connections can open doors you never even knew existed.”
The Difference Between Contacts and Connections
Alex pulled up a slide on the projector. It displayed two words in bold: Contacts vs. Connections.
“Let’s start by understanding the difference,” Alex began. “A contact is just a name on your list. You may have met them once at a conference or through a mutual acquaintance, but there’s no real depth to the relationship. A connection, however, is someone you’ve engaged with, someone who understands what you do and who you can learn from or collaborate with.”
Jamie, the creative entrepreneur, nodded. “So, it’s like building a community, not just a directory?”
“Exactly,” Alex confirmed. “It’s about finding people who share your values, interests, and goals. When you focus on building a network of genuine connections, you create opportunities for collaboration, referrals, and growth that go beyond what any marketing campaign can achieve.”
Jordan's Skepticism Turned Opportunity
As the group began discussing their experiences, Jordan shared a common frustration. “I’ve been connecting with people left and right, but it doesn’t seem to lead anywhere. How do I know if I’m connecting with the right people?”
Alex leaned forward, understanding Jordan’s concern. “The key is to be strategic. Start by identifying key industry players—people who influence your field, potential clients, partners, or mentors. Then, engage with their content, comment thoughtfully, and share insights that add value. When you reach out to connect, personalize your message. Show that you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely interested in what they do.”
Jordan nodded, still skeptical but willing to try. “I guess it’s worth a shot,” Jordan said, opening LinkedIn on their laptop.
Taylor’s Unexpected Opportunity
While Jordan hesitantly started crafting personalized connection requests, Taylor shared an exciting development. “I’ve been following Alex’s advice on engaging with my network and just yesterday, a connection reached out to me about a consulting opportunity. They said they were impressed with my posts and my profile update. I didn’t even apply for the job—it found me!”
The group was visibly intrigued. Taylor’s experience was a concrete example of the power of strategic networking.
“Exactly!” Alex said, emphasizing Taylor’s story. “This is what I mean by the hidden power of a strong network. It’s not always about what you can get immediately. Sometimes, it’s about planting seeds and letting them grow. Your connections may not need your services today, but if you stay top-of-mind, they’ll think of you when they do.”
Tips for Building Meaningful Connections
Alex turned back to the screen, bringing up a checklist. “Here are some practical tips for building a network of meaningful connections:
A New Perspective
As the workshop continued, Jordan began to see the potential in Alex’s advice. They crafted a personalized message to a key industry influencer, mentioning a recent article the influencer had published and how it resonated with Jordan’s own work. It felt more authentic, more genuine—like the beginning of a conversation rather than a cold introduction.
As the session came to a close, Jordan’s skepticism had turned into curiosity. The power of meaningful connections was starting to make sense, not just as a concept, but as a strategy for real growth.
Recommended by LinkedIn
The room buzzed with newfound energy. Taylor’s story had sparked hope, and Alex’s guidance provided a clear path. Each character left the workshop with a commitment: to not just grow their network but to nurture it.
Setting the Stage for the Next Step
Before the group dispersed, Alex left them with a thought. “Your network is your net worth. It’s not about collecting contacts but cultivating connections. The more you invest in your relationships, the more they will return that investment in ways you can’t yet imagine.”
The group left the co-working space, their minds buzzing with possibilities. They weren’t just building connections—they were building bridges to opportunities, knowledge, and growth.
Join us for Episode 4:
"The Art of Engagement" as our characters dive deeper into how to actively engage with their LinkedIn networks to build trust and authority. Learn the do’s and don’ts of engagement that can elevate your own LinkedIn strategy. Don’t miss the next installment of The LinkedIn Chronicles!
Subscribe now to continue following the journey and uncovering strategies that will transform your LinkedIn presence, just like Jordan, Taylor, Sam, Jamie, and Alex.
About The Author:
Carlos Batista is a seasoned business coach specializing in leveraging the digital world and LinkedIn for business growth. With a passion for creativity, personal development, and helping businesses thrive, Carlos offers a range of services designed to unlock your full potential and drive success.
Services Offered:
Exclusive Offer:
Unlock your business potential with a Free 45-Minute Online Discovery Call! Whether you’re looking to optimize your LinkedIn profile, develop a content strategy, or need personalized business coaching, this call is your first step toward success.
Click Here to Book Your Free Discovery Call Today!
Connect with Carlos:
Contact Carlos:
ICF Global Enterprise Board Director - Leadership Coach, Team Coach, and author of "Ubuntu Coaching and Connection Practices for Leader-Managers".
6moBrilliant post this. It resonates powerfully with the principles and values of Ubuntu and other 'ways of being' that ignite real, genuine and authentic humane and rehumanizing connections. Thank you Carlos Batista for this awesome post. These LinkedIn for Learning Chronicles are on fire!! 😍