There are a few different ways to say “let’s connect on LinkedIn” professionally and politely. LinkedIn is a crucial platform for networking and building connections, so knowing how to request connections appropriately is an important skill. In this article, we’ll explore some recommended phrases and tips for asking to connect on LinkedIn.
Why You Should Connect on LinkedIn
Here are some key reasons why connecting on LinkedIn can be beneficial:
- Expand your professional network – Connecting provides access to new contacts that could help your career.
- Stay up-to-date – You can follow new connections’ activities to learn about their latest projects, achievements, and career moves.
- Increase visibility – A larger network makes you more visible in LinkedIn search results.
- Build relationships – Connecting creates opportunities to build rapport and relationships with colleagues.
- Access resources – Your connections can provide valuable resources, information, job leads, and more.
In summary, connecting on LinkedIn can open up new opportunities, information streams, and resources that boost your career and professional capabilities. That’s why requesting connections in an appropriate way is important.
How to Ask to Connect on LinkedIn
When asking someone to connect on LinkedIn that you don’t know well, it’s important to be professional and provide context on why you’d like to connect. Here are some examples of polite ways to request a connection:
Mention a Common Interest or Background
“Hi [name], I noticed we’re both members of the Marketing Professionals Network. I’m interested in connecting so we can share best practices and industry updates.”
Pointing out a shared interest, group membership, or industry background provides a purpose for connecting and makes the request more meaningful.
Note Previous Interactions
“Hi [name], I really enjoyed meeting you at last month’s industry conference. I’d love to connect on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.”
Referencing a previous interaction like an event, meeting, or conversation adds context for the connection request.
Explain How They Inspire You
“Hi [name], I’ve been following your work at [company] and am truly inspired by your approach to [topic]. I would be honored to connect on LinkedIn and learn more about your experiences.”
Commenting on their work and how they inspire you makes the request more personal and less robotic.
Share Your Admiration
“Hi [name], your career path and accomplishments are so impressive! I would appreciate the opportunity to connect and learn from you.”
A little flattery can go a long way. Being genuine about your admiration for their work builds a foundation for the relationship.
Note a Common Contact
“Hi [name], [mutual connection] suggested we connect on LinkedIn. I’d love to expand my professional network and exchange best practices.”
Mentioning a shared connection helps break the ice and provides some familiarity.
Key Tips for Requesting LinkedIn Connections
Here are some additional tips for politely and effectively asking to connect on LinkedIn:
- Personalize each request by mentioning their name, company, experience, etc. Generic requests seem spammy.
- Be clear on why you want to connect. Don’t just say “Let’s connect!” Explain what you hope to gain.
- Only request to connect if you truly want to build a relationship. Don’t spam every connection possibility.
- Use a respectful tone as you would in any professional interaction.
- Follow up after connecting to start a conversation and build rapport.
- Offer to provide value to the connection through advice, resources, introductions, etc.
Making thoughtful, personalized requests and providing ongoing value after connecting will give you the best chance of building strong LinkedIn relationships.
Sample LinkedIn Connection Request Messages
To make it easier, here are some sample LinkedIn connection request messages you can use and customize:
Basic Template
“Hi [name],
I came across your LinkedIn profile and was impressed by your experience as [position] at [company]. I’m interested in connecting so we can [share industry insights, exchange best practices, discuss career experiences, etc.].
I look forward to hearing from you!
[Your name]”
Conference Meeting Follow-Up
“Hi [name],
It was a pleasure meeting you and chatting at [conference name] last week. Our conversation around [topic] really piqued my interest in [related topic]. I’d love to stay in touch and continue the dialogue.
Would you be open to connecting on LinkedIn? I’m looking forward to exchanging ideas and insights related to [topic].
Hope you’re having a great week!
[Your name]”
Common Industry Request
“Hi [name],
My name is [your name] – we’re both part of the [industry] community here on LinkedIn. Networking with other passionate [industry] professionals is so valuable for sharing knowledge and opportunities.
I would appreciate the chance to connect with you! Please let me know if you’re open to linking up.
Thanks,
[Your name]”
Accepting LinkedIn Connection Requests
When you receive connection requests, review the person’s profile and message before accepting. Things to consider:
- Do we have any common connections, groups, or interests?
- Did they explain why they want to connect? Or is it a generic message?
- Does accepting align with your networking goals right now?
If the request seems relevant and beneficial, accept the connection. Here are some examples of polite acceptance messages:
Basic Acceptance
“Hi [name], thank you for the connection request! I’m looking forward to collaborating and supporting each other’s professional goals.”
Industry Community Acceptance
“Hi [name], I’m excited to connect and learn more about your experience in [industry]. Networking within our field is so valuable, and I appreciate you reaching out.”
Conference Meeting Follow-Up Acceptance
“Hi [name], great to connect with you on LinkedIn. Our conversation at [conference] was so interesting – I’m excited to continue discussing [topic] and opportunities in our field. Thanks for reaching out!”
After accepting, send them a message to start building the relationship. Share an article, make introductions, or just say hello.
Rejecting LinkedIn Connection Requests
If a connection request seems irrelevant or unhelpful, it’s perfectly fine to ignore or reject it. Here are some polite ways to decline the request:
Basic Rejection
“Hi [name], I appreciate you reaching out to connect on LinkedIn. At this time I’m focusing my network on [industry/interests], but I wish you the best moving forward!”
Non-Personalized Request Rejection
“Hi there, thank you for your interest in connecting. I prefer to build relationships with those I’ve interacted with directly or have an established professional connection with. I wish you the best with your networking goals!”
Industry Mismatch Rejection
“Hi [name], thank you for thinking of me. As you know, my background is primarily in [industry], which seems quite different from your focus on [their industry]. I don’t think we’d find much synergy connecting right now, but I appreciate you reaching out.”
Be polite yet honest. Reject requests from people you have no common interests or connections with and don’t feel compelled to accept every request.
Conclusion
Connecting with people on LinkedIn can lead to great relationships and opportunities, but thoughtlessly spamming connection requests dilutes your efforts. Be strategic and genuine when asking to connect, and provide value to each new connection. With the right approach, LinkedIn can be an invaluable tool for expanding your professional network and amplifying your career success.