Table of Contents
- What Is a LinkedIn Connection Message?
- Why Should I Use LinkedIn Connection Messages?
- How to Write a LinkedIn Connection Message in Only 6 Steps
- 1. Start with a greeting
- 2. Add a quick introduction
- 3. Highlight common interests
- 4. Tell them why you’re reaching out
- 5. Include a thoughtful ending
- 6. Proofread your message
- Bonus Step: Follow Up
- What Is the Character Limit on LinkedIn Connection Messages?
- How to Message Someone on LinkedIn Who Is Not a Connection
- LinkedIn Connection Request Message Templates
- 1. LinkedIn message for group members
- 2. LinkedIn message for industry leaders
- 3. LinkedIn message for fellow alumni
- 4. LinkedIn message for field professionals
- 5. LinkedIn message for employers or recruiters
- Wrapping It Up!
What Is a LinkedIn Connection Message?
Why Should I Use LinkedIn Connection Messages?
- To introduce yourself: Connection messages enable you to introduce yourself to someone and explain why you want to connect. They help you take the first steps toward establishing a professional relationship and make it more likely for the other person to accept your connection request.
- To expand your network: LinkedIn is, first and foremost, a professional networking platform. One of the main advantages of using it for your personal brand is that it helps boost your networking efforts. Connection messages allow you to reach out to other platform users you want to include in your professional network.
- To increase your profile’s visibility: Every time you connect with someone on LinkedIn, your profile becomes visible to them and their connections. This helps increase your profile’s visibility on the platform and makes it more likely for your profile to be discovered by potential business partners or clients.
- To find new opportunities: LinkedIn is the go-to social platform for professionals who want to find new work opportunities. Sending connection messages enables you to reach out to people in your Industry and build business relationships that can lead to new opportunities.
How to Write a LinkedIn Connection Message in Only 6 Steps
1. Start with a greeting
2. Add a quick introduction
3. Highlight common interests
4. Tell them why you’re reaching out
5. Include a thoughtful ending
6. Proofread your message
Bonus Step: Follow Up
What Is the Character Limit on LinkedIn Connection Messages?
How to Message Someone on LinkedIn Who Is Not a Connection
- Use LinkedIn’s InMail feature: LinkedIn’s InMail feature allows you to send messages to people you’re not connected with. You can use this feature to send a message to platform users who selected to receive InMails in their messaging preferences. However, you’ll need a LinkedIn Premium account to use InMail.
- Join a LinkedIn group: If you and the other user are members of the same LinkedIn group, you can message each other through the group.
- Use the Open Profile setting: LinkedIn Premium allows you to use the Open Profile setting. This feature enables regular LinkedIn users to message a Premium user they are not connected with. The gold LinkedIn thumbnail (outlined in the image below) indicates that someone is a Premium user. You can message them at no cost if their Open Profile setting is on.
LinkedIn Connection Request Message Templates
1. LinkedIn message for group members
“Hello [Name] We are both members of [LinkedIn group]. I enjoyed reading your posts on [topic]. My role at [company] involves [brief background], and I would like to connect and discuss [related topic] further. Let me know what you think. [Your Name]”
2. LinkedIn message for industry leaders
“Hi [Name], I came across your profile while searching for [industry] leaders/innovators on LinkedIn and was impressed by your experience and achievements. I look forward to connecting. [Your Name]”
3. LinkedIn message for fellow alumni
“Hi [Name], I noticed that we both graduated from [University] and are interested in [Industry], so I thought I’d reach out. I’d love to connect with someone with similar educational backgrounds and interests. I work as a [position] and am open to sharing advice and resources. Hope to hear from you soon. [Your Name]”
4. LinkedIn message for field professionals
“Hello [Name], I came across your profile while searching for [Profession] and was impressed by your work and experience. I am a [Profession] myself, and we could discuss more [Field]. I would love to connect and collaborate on a project or discuss more about [Field]. [Your Name]”
5. LinkedIn message for employers or recruiters
“Hello [Name] My name is [Name], and I found your profile through [LinkedIn group, mutual connection, etc]. I'm a [job title] with [X] experience in [relevant skills or achievements]. I'm looking for new career opportunities in [field]. I would love to discuss how my background and skills may be suited for a position at [employer's company]. Looking forward to connecting with you. [Your Name]”