Here's exactly what he did, broken down into the core components that made it work.
Most founders approach LinkedIn connection requests like they're writing a sales pitch.
They try to cram their value proposition into that tiny message box.
This user went the opposite direction.
His connection requests were genuinely simple: "I enjoy reaching out and connecting with people."
No hidden agenda. No mention of his services. No clever hooks.
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Why this works: People immediately drop their guard because there's no threat. They're not being sold to. In a world where everyone's trying to pitch you something, genuine human connection stands out.
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The psychology is simple.
When someone clearly wants something from you, your natural response is skepticism.
When someone just wants to connect, you're curious about who they are.
He focused on founders in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. Not because of advanced targeting criteria, but because these were people he could genuinely relate to as a fellow business builder.
The insight isn't about perfect targeting. It's about connecting with people you actually want to know, not just prospects you want to convert.
When your intention is authentic, it shows in your messaging.
People can feel the difference between "I want to connect with you" and "I want to sell to you."
His biggest early mistake was overcomplicating his follow-up sequences. Multiple messages, complex timing, trying to craft the perfect progression of touchpoints.
The simplified approach: Send the agenda-free connection request and let the relationship build naturally.
This doesn't mean you never follow up or never have business conversations. It means you build the foundation first, then the commercial discussions happen organically.