Let’s be honest: professors get bombarded with LinkedIn requests. Here’s how to stand out and build genuine connections, based on what really happens in academia:
The Groundwork
First, clean up your LinkedIn. This isn’t Instagram; use a photo where you look approachable but professional. Write a bio that shows you actually do something, not just “Passionate learner seeking opportunities.”
Before You Hit Connect
Most professors can smell a copy-pasted message from miles away. Do your homework, but not just the obvious stuff. Find their recent talks on YouTube, check if they’ve been interviewed in podcasts, or read their blog if they have one. This gives you actual talking points beyond their published papers.
Making First Contact
Here’s what catches attention: Show you understand their niche. Instead of “I admire your work,” try “Your perspective on [specific concept] in your recent talk at [conference] made me rethink [a related idea].” Be brief but specific.
The Follow-Up Game
This is where most people drop the ball. Don’t just lurk; engage meaningfully when they post, but only if you have something genuine to add. A thoughtful question or relevant experience beats empty praise.
Building Real Rapport
Got a connection? Great. Now forget about asking for favors right away. Share interesting papers in their field, mention when you apply their ideas in your work, or point out relevant news they might have missed. Make yourself valuable before asking for anything.
The Long Game
Academic relationships are marathons, not sprints. Stay on their radar by occasionally sharing your own progress or asking focused questions about their latest work. But remember, professors talk to each other. Your reputation in one connection can impact future opportunities.
Keep in mind that many professors are more active on X (formerly Twitter) than on LinkedIn. Consider following them there too, but keep the same principles in mind.
The goal isn’t just to add another connection—it’s to build a relationship that benefits both parties over time. Sometimes the best networking happens when you’re not actively trying to network.
