The beauty with focusing on the 2nd degree connections is that you dont have to use any of LinkedIns communication or introduction tools to make this strategy work. Its also why I said that compliance isnt an issue. Because youre connected with them on LinkedIn, at minimum you have their email address. If its someone you know outside of LinkedIn, then you may also have their phone number. Use your approved email account or simply pick up the phone to talk to your connection about this prospect.
How you approach your connection about the referral really depends on the strength of your relationship with them. If its someone you know well, it should be relatively easy since they know who you are, what you do, how well you do it, and they hopefully want to help you. If its someone you dont know well, then youre going to have to be more subtle or that could also be an excuse just to get to know them better before asking about the prospect. Ive found that a message similar to that below often works very well:
Dear Connection,
I noticed that you were connected to Jane Smith on LinkedIn and that Jane is currently in between career opportunities. As you may or may not know, I help people in transition take control of the few things in their financial lives that they can control during these often turbulent times. I was wondering if you would be open to talking to me about your relationship with Jane and if it would be appropriate for you to introduce the two of us. I would be happy to meet you for coffee or lunch or schedule a phone call at your convenience.
If your relationship with Jane is not such where you would be comfortable approaching her about this topic, please feel free to say so and know that there are no hard feelings. If there is ever anything I can do to help you or your business, please dont hesitate to ask. I look forward to hearing from you.
Warmest regards,
Me