Is it okay to send a follow up message on LinkedIn?

Quick Answer

Yes, it is generally acceptable to send a follow up message on LinkedIn if you haven’t received a response to an initial connection request or message. However, you’ll want to be mindful of how often you’re following up and make sure your messages have value for the recipient. Follow ups can help ensure your messages don’t get overlooked, but too many can come across as pushy or desperate.

When is it okay to send a LinkedIn follow up message?

Here are some appropriate times to send a follow up message on LinkedIn:

• If you haven’t received a response to a connection request within 1-2 weeks
• If someone has accepted your connection request but not responded to your initial message within a few days
• When following up after meeting someone at an event or networking opportunity
• After an interview to reiterate your interest in the role or provide any requested follow up items
• If you have a pre-existing relationship with someone and need to get in touch with an urgent request or update

The common thread is that follow ups are acceptable if your initial outreach has gone unanswered and you have a legitimate reason for reaching out.

How often should you send a follow up message?

As a general rule, limit follow up messages to 1-2 per original outreach. Here are some guidelines on frequency:

• Wait 1 week after sending a connection request before following up
• Follow up once on an initial message if you don’t receive a response within 3-5 business days
• Send interview follow ups within 1-2 days to thank them and provide requested items
• Only follow up a second time if you have yet to get a response and need to get in touch urgently

Avoid bombarding someone with constant follow up messages, as that comes across as aggressive and annoying. If you still don’t receive a response after 1-2 follow ups, it’s usually best to move on.

What makes a good LinkedIn follow up message?

An effective LinkedIn follow up message should:

• Be personalized and reference your initial outreach
• Add value by including useful information or requesting next steps
• Have a clear purpose related to networking, business or career goals
• Be short, polite and professional in tone
• Avoid sounding desperate or pushy

Here are some examples of good follow up messages:

• “Hi John, I wanted to follow up on the LinkedIn connection request I sent last week. I really enjoyed meeting you at the recent finance conference and think we could have some great conversations on investing strategies. I’d be delighted to connect on LinkedIn and continue the dialogue.”
• “Hi Sarah, I’m following up on the message I sent earlier this week regarding the marketing coordinator role. I’m very interested in the position and think my experience makes me a strong fit. I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss further over a phone call or video chat. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. Looking forward to hearing from you.”
• “Hi Miguel, I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to follow up on the networking conversation we had last month. I just came across an article on the latest in manufacturing automation that I thought you might find interesting given your work in the industry. I’ve attached it here in case it’s helpful or relevant for you. I’d be happy to chat more if you have any thoughts after reading it. Have a great rest of your week!”

The key is keeping the tone light and conversational while clearly explaining your purpose and adding value for the recipient.

What to avoid in LinkedIn follow up messages

There are a few things you’ll want to avoid including in LinkedIn follow up messages:

• Irritation or accusations – Don’t express annoyance that your initial outreach was ignored.
• Over-familiarity – Keep the tone professional, even if you have an existing relationship.
• Pushiness – Don’t insist on getting a response or demand someone’s time.
• Lack of personalization – Make sure to reference previous conversations or connections.
• Over-attachment – Avoid sounding like your professional success hinges entirely on their response.
• Very aggressive follow up frequency – Limit follow ups to 1 or 2 so you don’t become a pest.

The goal is to come across as professional, polite and considerate – not desperate or entitled.

How to follow up if someone rejects your LinkedIn request

If someone rejects a LinkedIn connection request, avoid taking it personally. In most cases, it’s nothing against you. Here are some productive ways to follow up:

• Politely send them a message asking if they received your request and if there’s any context you can provide on who you are or why you’d like to connect.
• Consider if you have any shared connections who could kindly introduce you.
• Connect by other methods like email or phone if you have that contact information.
• Connect with others at the same company who may be able to facilitate an introduction.
• Try sending a new connection request in a few months after you have a chance to interact in other ways like at events.

Persistence can pay off, but also know when to walk away and focus on other prospects.

Conclusion

Following up after initial outreach is part and parcel of building a strong professional network. With the right approach, follow up messages on LinkedIn can be an effective tool for connecting with colleagues, prospects and career contacts. Just be mindful of frequency and tone. With valuable insights, professionalism and consideration for the recipient’s time, a follow up message can help advance your career goals and avoid neglected opportunities.