Growing, nurturing and using your network

Exponential growth

On LinkedIn, the more connections you have the easier it is to make new connections. LinkedIn operates a tiered visibility system. You aren't just connected to your 1st-degree contacts; you are effectively "unlocked" to their entire networks.

1st Degree: People you know.
2nd Degree: People who know people you know.
3rd Degree: The extended frontier.

For example, if you have 100 connections and they each have 500 connections, you have 50,000 potential 2nd-degree prospects. This makes it much easier to find and connect with useful contacts.

Growing your network - face-to-face

During your sixth form studies there will be countless opportunities to make new connections. For example:

Trips
Guest speakers
Careers fairs
Insight days

Introduce yourself, exchange small talk and then ask if they would be happy for you to connect on LinkedIn. Assuming they say "yes" do that while they are next to you.

Growing your network - online (LinkedIn)

Start by tracking down people in your chosen field. For example, if you decide you want to apply for a BBC degree apprenticeship, you could search “BBC degree apprentice” and click on “People” (you can filter by location too). Once you have identified your targets, send them a polite connection request.

Photos and polite messages

If you want your LinkedIn connection request to be accepted, there are two golden rules: 1) Have a professional photo on your profile and 2) Send a polite message alongside your request (see example below). If you do these two things the chances of your connection request being accepted will double. (Note: When “connecting” your message is limited to 200 characters, or 300 characters if you’re a LinkedIn Premium member.)

Hi Josie

I’m currently applying for a Civil Service Degree Apprenticeship and I was inspired to see your journey on LinkedIn. Please can we connect.

Thanks

Carly

Join Groups

Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry or interests. This is a great way to network, stay informed and engage with like-minded professionals. At the time of writing there were 28 groups dedicated to degree apprenticeships.

Nurturing your network

Once you have connected with relevant professionals, engage with their content: Like, [positively] comment on, and share posts. This helps you build positive relationships. So, when you do ask them for help, they are likely to be more receptive.

Create Your Own Content

If you’re feeling brave, you could share your insights by writing articles or creating short posts. Remember: This is a professional work dedicated platform - only post work-related content (not your political views etc.).

Asking for help

If you have managed to connect with current or past degree apprentices, treat these connections with kid gloves - they are very precious. Say “please” and “thank you” a lot! You can ask them all manner of things including:

Feedback on your CV.
Advice when completing your online application.
What to expect on the assessment day.

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