You Have LinkedIn Connections, Now What?

So, you have  a LinkedIn profile and have used my tips to make connections. Now what?

Time to make those connections work for you. Here’s how:

• Address a professional challenge or question by sending personal messages to the connections who may be able to provide sound advice.  Posting a question to a LinkedIn group may get you some great information, but the people who are connected to you are much more likely to take the time and offer you their thoughts. And, a personal message is always more motivating that a general post.
• Research connections that can make connections. Do you need to know more about a specific organization or industry? Search your connections to see who has first-hand experience. Are you applying for a job? Search your connections to see if anyone can connect you to someone specific at that organization.
• Learn how to market yourself. Chances are that many of your connections have similar professions and work experience. Look to their profiles for ideas on how to improve your presence on LinkedIn.

So there are my top ideas. Have any to add?