Your Dormant LinkedIn Connections Are Sitting on Opportunities

LIFT Newsletter 038

Why AI makes human networks your ultimate competitive advantage.

January 2026 feels different.

AI can now write reports, analyze data, and generate presentations in minutes. Economic uncertainties loom. Industry shifts accelerate. Many professionals are holding their breath, wondering what skills will still matter.

Here's the paradox: As AI handles more technical tasks, human connections become more valuable, not less.

McKinsey's latest research shows that 70% of hiring decisions still come through referrals and personal networks, despite AI-powered recruitment tools. Why? Because trust, cultural fit, and relationship chemistry can't be automated.

As a LinkedIn Top Voice who's witnessed this shift firsthand, I can tell you: The professionals thriving in our AI-shaped world aren't competing with machines. They're leveraging the one thing AI can't replicate, authentic human relationships.

YOUR DORMANT NETWORK IS GOLD

Right now, sitting in your LinkedIn connections are:

• Former colleagues who've moved to companies that need your uniquely human skills

• Industry contacts who hear about opportunities before AI recruitment tools do

• People you helped years ago who'd love to return the favor personally

Connections who could introduce you to decision-makers who still hire based on trust

Most of these relationships are dormant. Not dead. Just quiet.

YOUR 3-STEP NETWORK ACTIVATION PLAN

STEP 1: Scroll through your connections and identify 10 people you haven't spoken to in 6+ months

Look for those who've changed companies, gotten promoted, or work in industries where human skills are premium.

STEP 2: Engage authentically before you reach out

Comment meaningfully on their recent posts. Share their content. Like their updates. Warm up the connection.

STEP 3: Send a value-first reconnection message

Share an insight they'd find useful, congratulate them on a recent win, or simply acknowledge their expertise in solving human-centered challenges.

THE URGENT REALITY

While everyone's debating which jobs AI will replace, smart professionals are building the relationships that AI can't touch.

The time to activate your network is now, before you need it.

This week, complete Steps 1 and 2.

Your career resilience depends on the human connections you strengthen today.

Lead Beyond Yourself. Rise Beyond Limits.

Yours empowered,

Cassandra Nadira and the LIFT team.