Simply joining LinkedIn is not enough these days. In order to maximize your connection potential, it's critical to network effectively on LinkedIn with the right people that can help you accelerate your career. As such, here are five primary tips for how to network with people and groups within the LinkedIn social media platform.

Tip #1 – Build a strong profile FIRST
Although you might want to hit the ground running strong on LinkedIn to grab as many connections as possible, the truth is that you first want to ensure you are presentable. This begins by carefully monitoring your LinkedIn profile, editing it for any errors and continually updating your page – before you begin to connect with others. Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression – so you want to ensure that when you start to network; you're putting your best foot forward.

Tip #2 – Join a few Smaller Groups in your Field of Vocation
After you've created a very strong personal profile, the next step for networking with others is to join smaller groups that are in fields that you currently work or your own area of expertise on LinkedIn. The reason for this is to start small and interact personally with individuals on LinkedIn – as opposed to trying to impress people with how many 'friends' you have. Remember, LinkedIn is not Facebook or Twitter. It doesn't matter how many followers or 'Likes' you have. It's all about connecting with quality individuals. So – start small, and then build your network.

Tip #3 – Don't be Aggressive on LinkedIn
Being a go-getter in business is a solid attribute. Being aggressive and trying to connect with tons of people at first is a bad thing. When you're beginning to network with individuals within your vocational industry, get to know those with whom you've connected before networking with others. You'll find out that when you take time to build relationships in business, that has a bigger impact than simply trying to connect with multiple people. Remember – building business relationships take time; but most importantly, it takes effort on your part to connect with others.

Tip #4 – Don't ask for Recommendations
One of the biggest mistakes that people make on LinkedIn is they tend to ask people they've just connected with for 'recommendations' or endorsements about their skills. Not only is this extremely arrogant, but it's also unprofessional. If you're good at doing something, people will offer to endorse you. Work on being good at what you do as opposed to asking people to help you build a phony LinkedIn profile. Remember again – this isn't Facebook; so 'status' does not apply on LinkedIn.

Tip #5 – Be Honest
Finally, whenever you are networking with people that will hopefully help you grow within the business sector; it's always critical to begin and end every conversation and interaction with honesty and transparency. Nobody wants to work with somebody that is false or fake. So start off your networking with honesty – as more people will respect that quality above anything else.

When you're looking to network on LinkedIn, simply follow these five easy tips and you'll quickly build a strong network of qualified business connections, leads and relationships that will help you advance in your field of study.