How to Write a LinkedIn Connection Message (15 Proven Examples)

I used to send the default LinkedIn connection text to everyone, and I ended up with an endless list of ignored invitations.

The platform rewards real, human connections over cold pitches. So to get invitations accepted, you adapt your message to a simple three-part system built for LinkedIn's 300-character limit. This guide is your template bank: copy-paste examples for every scenario. For the full strategy behind them, see our pillar guide on LinkedIn connection request best practices.

The anatomy of a connection request that works

You have to fit inside LinkedIn's 300-character limit, which forces simple sentences and a clear point. Personalization, when you have a genuine angle, drastically outperforms the default "I'd like to add you" text. And never pitch your product in the first invite, that earns an instant rejection.

A successful message follows a simple three-part framework:

• Context: state exactly how you found their profile or content.
• Value: explain the real, non-sales reason you want to connect.
• Soft close: end with a low-pressure wrap-up.

Connection message examples by scenario

Every template below is under 300 characters. Replace the bracketed text [like this] with your details before you send.

For job seekers and students

Hiring manager for a posted role

"Hi [Name], I saw your post for the [Job Title] role. My background in [Skill/Field] matches the requirements well. I just submitted my application, but wanted to connect to express my enthusiasm directly. Thanks!"

Alumni from your university

"Hi [Name], I noticed you graduated from [University Name] too. I'm currently studying [Major] and your path at [Company Name] really stands out. I'd love to connect with a fellow alum and follow your journey."

Informational interview request

"Hi [Name], I follow your work in [Industry/Field]. I'm learning more about the space and would love to ask 2-3 brief questions about your experience if you have time. Let's connect!"

Connecting with a role model

"Hi [Name], I'm working toward becoming a [Job Title], and your career path at [Company Name] is a real inspiration. I'd love to connect and learn from the insights you share here."

If you're juggling multiple opportunities, track your replies in one place with the Taplio inbox.

For networking and industry peers

Following up after an event

"Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [Event Name] yesterday. I really enjoyed our chat about [Topic]. I'd love to add you here to stay in touch and follow your work."

Connecting with a content creator

"Hi [Name], I read your posts on [Topic] often and always learn something. Your recent point about [Specific Point] really resonated. I'd love to connect to keep seeing your insights."

Based on a mutual connection

"Hi [Name], I noticed we're both connected with [Mutual Connection]. They speak highly of your work in [Field]. I wanted to reach out and add you to my circle."

Webinar or panel speaker

"Hi [Name], thank you for your insights on the [Webinar/Panel Name] today. Your points on [Specific Topic] were genuinely practical. I'd love to connect and follow your future sessions."

For sales and business development

Pitching your product in a connection request almost always backfires. Focus on value-driven outreach with zero immediate asks.

Shared industry challenge

"Hi [Name], I see you handle [Job Function] at [Company Name]. A lot of teams in your space are wrestling with [Industry Challenge] this quarter. I'm connecting with peers to swap notes and solutions."

Prospect who engaged with similar content

"Hi [Name], I noticed your comment on [Influencer Name]'s post about [Topic]. I completely agree with your take on [Specific Point]. I'd love to connect and keep up with your perspective."

Soft-touch introduction

"Hi [Name], I'm expanding my network with leaders in [Industry Name]. I love what [Prospect's Company] is doing with [Specific Project], and I'd love to connect to follow your updates."

To customize these faster across industries, try the Taplio connection request tool.

For recruiters reaching out to talent

Complimenting a specific achievement

"Hi [Name], your recent work on [Project/Launch] at [Company Name] is genuinely impressive. Your background in [Skill] stands out, and I'd love to add you to my network."

Soft inquiry about new opportunities

"Hi [Name], your profile caught my eye because of your expertise in [Skill]. I occasionally hire for teams in this space and wanted to connect to see if you're open to exploring roles down the line."

What should you say after someone accepts?

Securing the connection is step one. Do not pounce with a pitch the moment someone accepts, it ruins the rapport you just built. Use a "thank you + value" formula instead: thank them, then share a useful resource or ask a thoughtful question.

The content share

"Hi [Name], thanks for connecting! I saw you write about [Topic] often. I recently read this piece on industry trends and thought it might be relevant: [Link]. Would love your thoughts if you get a chance."

The thoughtful question

"Hi [Name], glad to be connected! I noticed your background in [Field] and had a quick question. What's the biggest challenge when managing [Specific Task] at your company right now? Curious to hear your take."

To spin up more variations of these automatically, use the Taplio AI content generator.

Why your requests get ignored (in short)

If your invites keep getting left on read, it usually comes down to a few avoidable mistakes: pitching in the first note, leaving the lazy default text, asking for a big favor from a stranger, or using sloppy automation that breaks brackets and inserts the wrong company name. We cover the full fix, including profile setup, pre-engagement and safe limits, in the connection request best practices guide, and the exact volume limits in our connection limits guide.

The takeaway

A strong network starts with treating people like humans. Keep invites under 300 characters, use the three-part framework, and follow up with genuine value instead of an immediate pitch. Start using Taplio today to target warm prospects and grow your network without the manual grind.

FAQ

What is a good first message on LinkedIn?

One that focuses on common ground, not a pitch. Keep it short and human, and follow the three-part structure: how you found them (Context), the real reason to connect (Value), and a low-pressure close (Soft close).

Can you message someone you're not connected with?

Yes, but it depends on your account. You can include a note of up to 300 characters inside a connection request. For a longer message without connecting first, you need LinkedIn InMail.

How long should a LinkedIn connection message be?

Strictly under 300 characters. That constraint forces simple sentences and a clear point, so cut the fluff and get to it.

Is it ever okay to send a request without a message?

Yes. There's no absolute rule. When you have a genuine, specific angle, a personalized note wins. When you don't, a clean blank request can beat a forced, copy-paste compliment that feels fake. What you should avoid is the lazy default text.

What should you say to a recruiter on LinkedIn?

Compliment a specific project or achievement, or state your background clearly if you're applying for a posted role. Keep the inquiry soft and professional, asking about their openness rather than demanding a referral.