Asking an existing contact to make an introduction is a great way to build your business network. LinkedIn provides an easy way to facilitate these introductions and increases the likelihood of success.
Here are the key steps:
1) Go to the LinkedIn profile of an existing contact on LinkedIn. Preferably, a contact with whom you have a close relationship. Scroll down to the "Connections" section on their profile (see below).
2) Peruse their existing connections using the "next" button or by using the search box. You can search by name or another term.
3) If you conduct a search it will also offer you the opportunity to access the advanced search options.
4) The advanced search options (e.g. company, location etc.) then appear on the left hand side of the initial search results.
5) When you find somebody you wish to be introduced too, go to their profile by clicking on their name.
6) Select "Get introduced" from the drop down menu in the header section of their profile.
7) The following box will appear. Select the LinkedIn contact you wish to make the introduction on your behalf. There may be multiple options available from amongst your LinkedIn connections.
8) Enter an explanation of why you wish to connect with the person concerned. Then press "Send Request". The request will go to your selected connection, who can then pass on your request accordingly.
Note: It is also possible to access the "Introduction Request" box by going to the "How You're Connected" section on the right hand side of any LinkedIn profile.
