A LinkedIn connection message is the note you send when requesting to connect with someone on LinkedIn. Sending a thoughtful, personalized request sets the tone for the relationship and increases the chances the recipient will accept it. But crafting an effective LinkedIn connection request can be tricky.
Why Your LinkedIn Connection Message Matters
Your connection message is often the first impression you make on a new LinkedIn contact. A generic “I’d like to add you to my professional network” note feels impersonal and frankly, lazy. The recipient is likely to ignore or decline these types of requests.
Instead, a personalized message shows you respect the recipient’s time and are serious about establishing a professional relationship. It gives context about who you are, why you want to connect, and the value you can provide. This thoughtful approach makes it more appealing for the recipient to accept your request.
How to Write a Good LinkedIn Connection Message
Follow these best practices to craft an effective LinkedIn connection request:
Personalize the Greeting
Always address the recipient by name rather than using a generic greeting like “Hello” or “Hi there.” Mentioning their name at the start instantly makes the message more meaningful and personalized.
For example:
Hi [First Name],
Introduce Yourself
Briefly explain who you are and why you want to connect with this person specifically. If you have a connection in common, mention that mutual contact.
For example:
My name is [your name] and I work at [company] as a [job title]. [Mutual contact] suggested I connect with you because [reason related to mutual interest, industry, etc.]
Explain Why You Want to Connect
Give context around why you want to establish a connection, like sharing similar professional interests, working in the same industry, or looking to learn from their expertise. Be clear about what value you both can gain from the relationship.
For example:
I noticed you have experience in [area of interest]. I’m really interested in learning more about [specific topic] from experienced professionals like yourself.
Make the Ask
Extend a specific ask, like requesting to connect on LinkedIn or asking for a quick phone call to learn more. This shows initiative and gives a clear call to action.
For example:
I would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you on LinkedIn and continue the conversation about [topic of mutual interest]. Please let me know if you’d be open to connecting.
Close With a Thank You
End your message with a simple thanks to acknowledge their time and consideration.
For example:
Thanks in advance for considering my request!
Example of a Good LinkedIn Connection Message
Here is an example of a personalized LinkedIn connection request applying these best practices:
Hi Juan,
My name is Michelle and I’m an SEO specialist at ABC Marketing. Bob Smith mentioned that you and I both specialize in technical SEO and suggested I reach out.
I noticed that you have experience optimizing large e-commerce sites, which is one of my focus areas as well. I am really interested in learning more about your technical SEO strategies.
I would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you here on LinkedIn and continue the conversation about optimizing complex e-commerce sites. Please let me know if you’re open to connecting.
Thanks in advance for considering my request!
Michelle
This message introduces who the sender is, makes a personalized connection, explains a mutual point of interest, and makes a specific ask while expressing appreciation for the recipient’s time.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key takeaways for writing an effective LinkedIn connection message:
- Personalize the greeting with the recipient’s name.
- Briefly introduce yourself and explain how you know each other or share a connection.
- Provide context on why you want to connect with this specific individual.
- Make a clear ask, like requesting to connect on LinkedIn.
- Close politely with thanks for their consideration.
Following these best practices shows respect for the recipient’s time, establishes common ground, and increases the likelihood your request will be accepted. Sending thoughtful, personalized connection messages is essential for building your professional network on LinkedIn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I send a LinkedIn connection request to someone I don’t know?
It’s best to only send connection requests to people you have an existing professional relationship with or share a common interest or industry with. Cold outreach to strangers is often perceived as spammy. Focus on making authentic connections.
Is it OK to reuse the same message for all connection requests?
Sending the exact same generic message to every connection comes across as impersonal. You should customize each request to explain why you specifically want to connect with that individual.
What if I don’t get a response to my request?
If your connection request is pending after 1-2 weeks, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow up message. Remind them of your initial request and reiterate your interest in connecting. However, don’t harass contacts who remain unresponsive.
How long should my request message be?
Aim for 2-4 sentences or around 50 words. You want to be brief but include enough context. Extremely short messages seem lazy while long messages can feel overbearing. Find the right balance based on your relationship.
Conclusion
A thoughtful LinkedIn connection message is crucial for expanding your professional network. Personalized messages have the best chance of getting accepted. Introduce yourself, explain your reasons for connecting, and make a specific request to take the next step. With these best practices, you can craft engaging connection messages that make meaningful LinkedIn relationships.
