A LinkedIn message is a private communication sent from one LinkedIn member to another. It’s similar to an email, but exchanges occur within the LinkedIn platform. LinkedIn messages allow you to directly connect with other professionals without sharing your email address. They can be used for a variety of purposes like networking, recruiting, sales prospecting, and more.
Introductory LinkedIn Messages
One of the most common uses of LinkedIn messaging is to introduce yourself to someone you’d like to connect with. An introductory message typically contains a greeting, a short personal introduction, the reason for connecting, and a call to action. For example:
Hi [name],
My name is [your name] and I’m a [your profession] at [your company]. I noticed that you work in [their industry] and was hoping to connect. I’m looking to expand my professional network in order to [goal for connecting]. It would be great if we could connect!
Best,
[Your name]
The goal is to be personable yet professional. Providing context on who you are and why you want to connect makes the outreach more meaningful.
LinkedIn Connection Request Messages
When sending a connection request, it’s recommended to include a customized message. This helps put a name to a face and gives the recipient more context. For a connection request, keep the message brief but personalized:
Hi [name],
I saw that we’re both members of [group name] and are in the [industry] space. I’m looking to expand my network of fellow [profession] professionals. I’d appreciate the chance to connect!
Best,
[Your name]
Personalizing the message with a shared group or interest helps make the connection more relevant.
LinkedIn Messages for Sales Prospecting
LinkedIn is also commonly used for sales prospecting. A prospecting message aims to introduce you and your company and gauge interest in a product or service. Here’s an example cold outreach message:
Hi [name],
My name is [your name] and I’m a [position] at [company name], a [short company description]. I noticed that at [their company] you’re involved in [area relevant to your offering]. I’m reaching out because we’ve helped companies like [examples] optimize their [relevant process] using [your solution].
Would you be open to a quick chat to see if there are any ways we could potentially help [their company]? I’m happy to work around your schedule.
Best,
[Your name]
The goal is to communicate your value proposition clearly. Providing social proof and offering flexibility helps create a positive first impression.
LinkedIn Messages for Recruiting
LinkedIn is a top platform for recruiting passive candidates. Recruiting messages aim to spark interest in a new job opportunity. Here’s an example:
Hi [name],
My name is [your name] and I’m a recruiter at [company name]. I came across your LinkedIn profile and was thoroughly impressed by your background in [relevant skills]. In particular, your experience with [key requirements] stood out as a great fit for a [position name] role we are hiring for.
Our company is a leader in [description] and is growing rapidly. The [position name] position offers an opportunity to [details on role] and be part of our innovative team. Please let me know if you would be interested in learning more about the position and our company.
Best,
[Your name]
Flattering the candidate’s relevant skills and highlighting exciting aspects of the role captures attention. Close with a clear call to action to move the process forward.
LinkedIn Messages for Networking
Informational messages aim to start a discussion that could lead to networking opportunities. Here’s a template:
Hi [name],
I came across your profile and saw that you work in [industry] and have experience with [relevant skillsets]. I’m looking to broaden my professional network and was hoping to connect with someone that has navigated [industry/role].
Would you have 20-30 minutes in the next few weeks for a quick coffee chat? I’d love to hear your insight on [discussion topics]. Please let me know if this is something you’d be open to.
Best,
[Your name]
Demonstrating shared interests and asking for limited time helps increase the chance of a positive response. Come prepared with 3-5 talking points for the discussion.
LinkedIn Messages for Following Up
It’s often necessary to follow up if you haven’t received a response. Here’s a template for a friendly follow-up message:
Hi [name],
I wanted to follow up on my last message in case it got lost in the shuffle. I’m very interested in [original reason for connecting] and would appreciate the opportunity to [purpose of outreach].
Please let me know if you have any availability in the next couple weeks for a quick [chat/call/meeting]. I can work around your schedule.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
[Your name]
briefly restating your original purpose and offering flexibility shows continued interest. But don’t over-message if you still don’t get a response.
LinkedIn Messages for Thanking Connections
It’s always important to say thank you and show appreciation for someone’s time. Here’s a thank you template:
Hi [name],
I wanted to send you a quick note to thank you again for [reason for connecting, e.g. meeting, chatting on phone, accepting invite]. Getting the opportunity to [purpose, e.g. learn more about your career path, discuss industry trends] was very valuable for me.
The insights you provided on [key takeaways] will be extremely helpful as I [follow up goals/next steps]. Please feel free to reach out if I can ever return the favor!
Best,
[Your name]
Summarizing the key takeaways and expressing willingness to help in return nurtures an ongoing mutually beneficial relationship.
LinkedIn Messages Sharing Content
You can also use LinkedIn messages to share content that would benefit your connections. Here’s a template:
Hi [name],
Hope you’ve been well! I recently came across this [article/post/piece of content] that I thought you would find interesting given your work in [relevant area]. You can find it at [link].
A few key takeaways that stood out to me were:
- Takeaway 1
- Takeaway 2
- Takeaway 3
Let me know if you have any other great content to share related to [topic]! I’m always looking to expand my knowledge.
Best,
[Your name]
Sharing valuable content demonstrates you’re looking to provide value without an immediate ask. Offering key takeaways saves the recipient time reviewing the content as well.
Key LinkedIn Messaging Best Practices
To maximize the impact of your LinkedIn messages, keep these best practices in mind:
- Personalize the message: Use their name, company, location, shared connections, etc. to make it more relevant.
- Be clear and concise: Get to the point promptly. Long blocks of text can be off-putting.
- Proofread carefully: Check for any spelling and grammar errors which undermine professionalism.
- Add a clear call to action: Provide next steps to progress the conversation.
- Follow up tactfully: If you don’t receive a response within a week, follow up once.
- Use the subject line: Add context so they know the message purpose.
- Adjust tone for relationship: More casual with existing contacts vs. more formal with new outreaches.
Leveraging LinkedIn messaging effectively can help you build relationships, generate leads, and advance your career. With the right strategy, it can be a valuable channel for a variety of professional objectives.