LinkedIn Users Debate: Accept All or Be Selective with Connection Requests

LinkedIn users often receive connection requests from strangers, leaving them to decide whether to accept or decline. This decision is a personal one, with some preferring to build a large network and others being more selective. Career experts emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to handling these requests.

Some users, particularly those early in their careers, may accept all connection requests to boost their network size. Others may want a larger audience for their posts. Tim Toterhi, a career coach, accepts almost all requests as long as they come with a brief explanation. He avoids connecting with individuals who have blank profiles or no picture to avoid bots or scammers.

However, accepting all requests can lead to a noisy timeline, as every new connection adds another voice to the digital field. Arianny Mercedes, founder of Revamped, a global career and workplace consultancy, notes that the downside to a "more is more" approach is an increasingly cluttered news feed.

On the other hand, some users prefer to be more selective about who they connect with on LinkedIn. Nirit Peled-Muntz, chief people officer at HiBob, emphasizes the importance of relevance over rejection. She advises being thoughtful and kind when deciding whether to accept a request. Michael Mandel, co-founder and CEO of CompStak, has a list of criteria for rejecting LinkedIn invitations, including those who promote their connection count or use certain emojis.

Sending a connection request to a stranger is possible and sometimes encouraged, but it must be done correctly. Career experts advise including a short, well-written message with the request. This is the key differentiator in whether someone will accept a request from an unknown person. LinkedIn members are more likely to connect with those who have interacted with their content or have mutual connections.

Andrew McCaskill, a career expert at LinkedIn, receives many direct connection requests daily but only accepts those from individuals who have engaged with his work or shared a reason for reaching out. He advises keeping the note brief and focused on why you are contacting the person.

In summary, the decision to accept or decline LinkedIn requests from strangers depends on personal preferences and networking goals. While some users prefer a large, diverse network, others prioritize relevance and quality over quantity. When sending a connection request to a stranger, it is essential to include a brief, personalized message explaining the reason for the request. This approach increases the likelihood of acceptance and helps build a meaningful professional network.