LinkedIn 1st, 2nd, 3rd Connections Explained [2025 Guide]

Confused by those little "1st", "2nd", or "3rd" tags on LinkedIn? These labels aren’t just there for show — they’re your roadmap to unlocking real connection potential.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:

✅ What 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections really mean 

✅ How to grow your network with intent

✅ Pro tips to send connection requests that actually get accepted

✅ Direct message strategies that earn replies

✅ How to tap into mutual connections the smart way

✅ Using LinkedIn to get closer to your next job opportunity — or your next client

By the end of this read, you'll have a playbook to navigate connection degrees and use them to your professional advantage.

What are 1st, 2nd, and 3rd connections?

Think LinkedIn’s connection system is just a technicality? Think again. Understanding how you're linked to others is key to deciding how you engage.

Here’s what those degrees mean — and why they matter.

1st degree connection

These are your direct connections — people you've connected with personally. Either they accepted your invite, or you accepted theirs. You get the full access: profile, contact info, including their email address in some cases, and of course, the ability to send direct messages freely.

Pro Tip: Stay active with your 1st-degree connections. Like, comment, or share their content. It keeps the relationship warm and you top of mind.

2nd degree connection

These are your connection’s 1st-degree connections — the “friends of friends” in your professional life. You can’t DM them unless you use InMail, but you can send them a connection request.

Want to grow fast? Target 2nd-degree connections with shared interests or mutual contacts to unlock new networking opportunities.

3rd degree connection

Now you’re reaching the outer edge. These people are connected to your 2nd-degree network. You’ll likely see just a name and job title. To connect with them, you might need LinkedIn InMail or a warm intro through your network.

Degree of connection

“Degree of connection” is LinkedIn’s way of measuring how close (or far) someone is from your circle. It's based on degrees of separation — the same idea behind “six degrees from Kevin Bacon,” but in a professional setting.

Degree connections on LinkedIn

Once you understand how these levels work, you can tailor every message and connection strategy.

Pro Tip: Always check the degree icon next to a user's name to understand your connection level before reaching out.

How to expand your network on LinkedIn?

Want more reach? You need more meaningful connections.

Here’s how to grow without spamming:

Optimize your LinkedIn profile

First things first — your LinkedIn profile. Make it pop.

A complete profile with a strong photo, killer headline, and clear summary brings more visibility and better connection rates.

Reach out with intention on LinkedIn

Find people in your niche. Use LinkedIn’s search to spot potential contacts — especially 2nd-degree ones with mutual links. Send them a connection request!

Join groups on LinkedIn

Groups are underrated. Join a few relevant ones, join the conversations, and connect with like-minded pros.

Pro Tip: Post helpful content regularly. It builds trust and positions you as a go-to voice in your industry.

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If you’re in sales, LinkedIn isn’t optional — it’s your playground.

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Networking opportunities

LinkedIn isn’t just for scrolling — it’s a goldmine of networking events and career convos.

Tap into:

✅ Virtual networking events
✅ LinkedIn-hosted webinars
✅ Industry influencers and thought leaders
✅ Company pages

Each click = a chance to get noticed.

What is the process of connection requests?

The connection request is your digital handshake — make it count.

Send personalized connection requests

When you hit "Connect," always add a note. Generic requests get ignored. Personal ones get read. 

Introduce yourself. Mention why you’re reaching out. Be brief, clear, and relevant.

Get LinkedIn invitation accepted

Boom — now they’re a 1st-degree connection. Full profile access, messaging, and relationship-building begins.

Pro Tip: Track your sent requests. If there’s no reply after a while, follow up — but don’t spam.

How to send a direct message on LinkedIn?

You’ve got the connection — now make the conversation matter via direct message.

Direct message

Go to your 1st-degree connection’s profile and click “Message.” 

Keep it short. Offer value. Don’t overthink it.

Send a LinkedIn InMail

If you’re not connected, InMail is your premium option. Use it for 2nd and 3rd-degree contacts.

These messages have better visibility than email. But use them wisely — they’re limited and cost credits.

Email contact info

For 1st-degree contacts, you may see email addresses. That’s gold — use it for more direct communication.

If you do email someone, always reference your LinkedIn connection for context.

Pro Tip: Respect privacy. Use contact information responsibly and in accordance with LinkedIn's policies.

What are mutual connections on LinkedIn?

Mutual connections are your backstage pass — they make networking warmer, faster, and way more effective.

Mutual connection on LinkedIn

Someone who knows both you and the person you want to meet. They can facilitate introductions and vouch for your credibility.

A warm intro beats a cold pitch. Every time.

Seeing shared contacts gives you context — and clues on how to approach the person.

Degree of separation with 2nd and 3rd degree connections

Most people are just a few introductions away. The world is smaller than it looks.

Focusing on your 2nd and 3rd-degree connections can open doors to new markets and industries you haven't explored yet.

Pro Tip: Use mutual connections to request introductions instead of cold messaging someone you want to reach.

How to use LinkedIn for job opportunities?

LinkedIn isn’t just a networking site — it’s a job engine.

Check job alerts

Many roles are posted only on LinkedIn. Set up alerts, check the “Jobs” tab often, and move fast on roles you care about.

Optimize your LinkedIn profile for recruiters

Make sure your LinkedIn profile speaks the recruiter’s language. Use keywords from job listings. Highlight achievements, skills, and experience.

Ask your Professional network for recommendations

Your contacts can refer you — and referrals matter. In hiring, trust beats a résumé every time.

Engage with your network

Engage. Like. Comment. Share. Activity shows recruiters you’re not just present — you’re active. 

Automate your Linkedin

Yes, LinkedIn automation can help — but don’t overdo it. LinkedIn frowns on bots. Make sure you're not violating LinkedIn's terms of service. Focus on real engagement.

Pro Tip: For advanced prospecting, tools like Sales Navigator offer enhanced search capabilities and additional insights.

Don't forget to check out resources like LinkedIn Sales Navigator prospecting and consider using services like Sales Navigator unlock profile to access more profiles and opportunities.

Summary Table: Connection Degrees and Features

Conclusion

Mastering LinkedIn's connection degrees is more than trivia — it’s how you unlock real relationships, opportunities, and growth.

Be strategic. Personalize your outreach. Leverage your network.

Because on LinkedIn, it’s not just who you know — it’s how you connect.

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