Guides / Concepts & practice

What Are Second-Degree Connections?

Treat second-degree connections as research clues, not as guaranteed warm access or endorsement.

A practical answer

What to know

A second-degree path indicates that someone you know may know the person you are researching. It is a lead to investigate, not proof that the intermediate contact is close to them, willing to help, or able to introduce you. Verify the context before making a request.

A thoughtful next step

Try this

  1. Check how the two people know one another and whether the context is current.

  2. Ask your direct contact for advice before requesting an introduction.

  3. Accept a decline or lack of response without escalating through other paths.

Explore the topic

Read the What is Go-to-Network? pillar guide for the broader approach, or explore all network guides.