If you're someone who pays close attention to the size of your LinkedIn network, you may have noticed that at times it can change drastically - even by the millions when it comes to second- and third-degree contacts - without any explanation.
The truth is, it's possible that nothing in your extended network actually changed. In fact, the figure given for the reach of your third-degree network is only an estimate, which LinkedIn is constantly tweaking in an attempt to more accurately reflect your greater network. As you can see in this thread, those behind LinkedIn don't intend this number to be as much a useful tool, as it is a fun estimate.
While this may come as a disappointment to those who are truly curious about this number, you can see why it didn't have much significance in the first place. As you well know, the actual number of connections you accumulate doesn't necessarily correlate to how well you are able to use LinkedIn to gain valuable information about those in your network. Do you want quantity, or do you truly want quality connections that can help you find and win business?
The real power of your network on LinkedIn is the ability it gives you to attain valuable sales information before your call, as well as the ability to learn more about an organization so you're finding the right prospects to contact. Bringing up that article your potential client just posted may just provide the topic of conversation that establishes the personal tie you were looking for to close the deal.
Knowing who you know that knows someone allows you to ask for a personal referral by name, which can be one of the most powerful (and easiest) ways to get in the door. Understanding how to use advanced Boolean search techniques to truly mine LinkedIn for qualified leads and access the names of decision makers is certainly more important than the size of your network.
On the same token, it pays for you to make your LinkedIn profile about more than just making contacts. Sharing valuable information through your profile that potential clients may be looking for may say more than anything you ever could during a sales call. A well-written LinkedIn profile that invites readers to learn more can be an exceptionally powerful personal branding tool.
It's fun to wonder about the actual number of individuals you may be connected to, but it's the information you can gain from quality connections on LinkedIn that will allow you to Know More!