If LinkedIn is any indication, it’s time to update the old ‘Six Degrees of Separation’ theory.

Most of us completely underestimate the extent of our professional networks. I have never met anyone from Brazil. However, a quick search on LinkedIn reveals that I’m only one introduction away from more than 10 Brazilian professionals. If I want to do business in Brazil (and why wouldn’t I?), that’s a pretty good start. Time for a caipirinha!

The beauty of top-ranked business networking site LinkedIn lies in its ability to identify potential connections, and help you work the “room” by requesting introductions. However, you can only communicate with other members if you have common connections, creating an authenticity unique to social media sites. Because of this transparency and the large number of reputable business contacts, LinkedIn is often considered the more professional counterpart to Facebook and Twitter.

With more than 43 million members, there’s a good chance you already have many LinkedIn connections in your address book. LinkedIn helps you solidify these connections and seek new ones, without the spam associated with other networking sites.

The first step to building your network on LinkedIn is finding contacts who are already using the site through your e-mail contacts or address book. These preexisting contacts will be the base of your LinkedIn network. Another great way to build your network is to search for colleagues at past and current companies.

To connect with people outside of your direct network, join a LinkedIn group. From professional organizations to alumni groups, you’re sure to find a few groups that focus on your professional or personal interests. Joining groups gives you access to members you might not be able to connect with otherwise.

LinkedIn also has a specific area designated for those seeking or posting jobs, as well as extensive group message boards where members can ask and answer questions. Furthermore, the site offers a free downloadable Microsoft Outlook Toolbar that allows you to manage your contacts in Outlook and build your network by inviting the people you e-mail often to connect.

So take a look at LinkedIn. You’ll find yourself “linked in” to a network of business connections in no time.

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 16th, 2009 at 3:19 pm and is filed under Hot Topics/Cool Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.