When you see an open position at a company you’re interested in on LinkedIn, one of the best ways to get your foot in the door is to directly message the hiring manager or recruiter. A personalized note introducing yourself and expressing interest in the role can help you stand out from the crowd of applicants.
Find the job posting and hiring manager
The first step is to identify the specific job posting that you want to inquire about. Search for open positions on LinkedIn by using keywords, company pages, the jobs tab, and any other relevant filters.
Once you locate the job ad that appeals to you, look for details on who posted it and who to contact about the opportunity. The job description usually lists a hiring manager, recruiter, HR representative, or general email where you can direct applications.
Do your research
Before reaching out, learn more about the company, position, and person you’ll be contacting. Read through the job posting carefully and highlight any requirements or skills you can speak to in your message. Check the company’s LinkedIn page and website to understand their work culture and values. Look up the hiring manager and recruiter on LinkedIn to find out their role, background, and tenure at the company. This context will allow you to craft a more personalized note.
Mention the mutual connection
If you and the recruiter are connected on LinkedIn or share any mutual connections, highlight this in your outreach message.
Saying something like “I noticed that we’re both connected to Alex Smith” or “My former colleague Jane Doe said she worked with you a few years back” can help get your foot in the door.
Express enthusiasm and interest
Your message should clearly convey excitement about the company and role. Say something like “I was excited to come across the job posting for the Product Manager position at Company X” or “After reviewing the job description, I’m very interested in the Social Media Coordinator role.” Being upfront about your interest levels the playing field and gives the recruiter context right away.
Highlight relevant experience
Connect the dots between your background and the position as much as possible. Mention any overlapping skills, qualifications, or experiences that make you a strong candidate. For example, you could say “With 5 years of experience managing social campaigns for consumer product brands, I believe I would be a great fit for the Social Media Coordinator role.” This shows the hiring manager you have the capabilities to succeed in the role.
Show enthusiasm for the company
Do your research on the company’s products, services, mission, and values. Weave in some unique details that convey your passion for the company. For example, “I’ve admired Company X’s commitment to sustainability initiatives over the past few years. I would be thrilled to bring my solar energy expertise to support these efforts.” This level of personalization and alignment with company values can give you a competitive edge.
Attach a resume
Include your latest resume as an attachment to give the hiring manager an at-a-glance overview of your experience and qualifications. Say something like, “Please find my resume attached, which further outlines my background.” This provides helpful context as the recruiter screens candidates.
Be clear and concise
Get straight to the point in just a few paragraphs or bullet points. Highlight the position, your interest, top qualifications, and any personal connections. Avoid overly formal language or flattery. Your message should be professional yet approachable.
Close with suggested next steps
Wrap up your note by proposing concrete next steps for the recruiter. For example, say “I’d welcome the opportunity to schedule a phone call to discuss the position and my qualifications further. Are you available for a 15-30 minute call next Tuesday or Wednesday?” This shows initiative and gives them options to move forward.
Proofread before sending
Double check your message for any spelling or grammar mistakes before hitting send. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. Ask someone else to review it as a second set of eyes. You want to come across polished and professional.
Follow up if needed
If you don’t hear back within about a week, consider sending a polite follow-up expressing continued interest. Maybe their initial response got buried in their inbox or they want to see persistence. Just say you’re checking in about the role and hope to continue the conversation. Don’t overdo follow-ups if they continue not to respond.
Customize for each application
Avoid blasting the same generic message to every recruiter or hiring manager. Take the time to tailor your message and research for each application. Recruiters can easily spot copied and pasted outreach attempts. The personal touch can really pay off.
Focus on quality over quantity
When reaching out about open roles, focus your efforts on positions and companies you’re truly interested in. Thoughtfully customized messages to just a few opportunities you’re excited about look better than mass blasts. Quality applications get more results than spamming your resume everywhere.
Sample LinkedIn Message
Here is an example of what a LinkedIn message inquiring about an open position could look like:
Subject: Product Manager Role at Company X
Dear Jane,
I noticed the job posting for the Product Manager role at Company X, which immediately caught my attention. With over 5 years of experience launching successful consumer tech products, I believe I would be a strong fit for this position.
After researching Company X, I’m very impressed with the focus on innovation and commitment to excellence. I would be thrilled to join the team and lend my expertise in agile product development and user experience optimization.
Please find my resume attached, which outlines my qualifications in greater detail. I would welcome the opportunity to schedule a call to discuss the role and my background. Are you available for a quick chat next Tuesday or Wednesday?
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
[Your name]
Tips for effective LinkedIn outreach
- Make connections with recruiters and hiring managers before messaging them.
- Reference the job title and posting so they know why you’re reaching out.
- Show you did your research on the company and role.
- Highlight 2-3 top selling points from your background.
- Suggest a call or meeting to continue the dialogue.
- Avoid form letters – personalize each message.
- Proofread for spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Follow up if you don’t hear back within a week.
- Focus on roles you’re truly excited about.
- Stay positive and enthusiastic in your tone.
What to avoid when messaging about jobs
- Sending overly generic, mass messages.
- Attaching resume without context in message.
- Making it all about you without mentioning company/role.
- Getting too pushy or aggressive with follow ups.
- Stalking or spamming recruiters who don’t respond.
- Being too informal – maintain professionalism.
- Forgetting to spell check and proofread.
- Waiting more than 1-2 weeks for a response.
- Lying or exaggerating qualifications.
- Just saying “I’m interested, let’s talk.” Give specifics.
Key takeaways
- Research the job posting, company, hiring manager to customize your note.
- Express clear interest in the opportunity.
- Highlight your most relevant qualifications and experience.
- Suggest meeting or talking further about the role.
- Carefully proofread before sending your message.
- Follow up if you don’t hear back within 1-2 weeks.
Messaging hiring managers directly on LinkedIn about open positions can be an effective way to get on their radar. With a personalized and professional approach, you can stand out from the applicant pool. Just be sure to avoid anything generic or pushy, and focus on showing genuine enthusiasm for the company and role in your outreach.