When sending a connection request on LinkedIn, the message you write can make a big difference in whether your request is accepted. A thoughtful, personalized message demonstrates that you’re genuinely interested in connecting, while a generic message may be ignored or even rejected. In this article, we’ll explore tips for crafting an effective LinkedIn connection request message.
Why the Message Matters
On LinkedIn, users are inundated with connection requests from people they may only know peripherally, if at all. Without context, these requests can feel like spam. A message gives you a chance to jog the recipient’s memory about where they know you from, explain why you want to connect, and give them a reason to accept your request.
Some key reasons the message matters:
- It personalizes the request so it doesn’t feel like a generic template.
- It provides context for the connection, reminding the recipient who you are.
- It makes the purpose for connecting clear.
- It encourages the recipient to learn more about you.
In other words, the message gives you an opportunity to make a good first (or second) impression.
How Long Should the Message Be?
Aim to write 1-3 concise sentences in your connection request message. You want to keep it short but personalized. Avoid simply writing your name with no context, as this comes across as lazy. On the other hand, don’t write a novel introducing yourself.
Keep the focus on jogging the recipient’s memory, explaining your purpose for connecting, and ending with a call to action. You can elaborate more after they’ve accepted your invitation.
Here are some recommended word counts for an effective message:
- 20-50 words if asking to connect for the first time
- 10-30 words if reconnecting with someone you already know
The message itself should only take a minute or two to compose. The effort will be well worth it if it results in more accepted invitations.
Personalize for Your Relationship
The exact message you write will vary depending on your relationship with the recipient. Here are some examples:
Connecting with someone you’ve met briefly:
Hi John, this is Michelle from the XYZ networking event last month. I enjoyed chatting about marketing trends in the construction industry. I’d love to connect on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.
Reconnecting with an old colleague:
Hi Jane, it’s been a few years since we worked at ABC Company together. Hope you’ve been well! I’d love to reconnect on LinkedIn to stay in touch.
Introducing yourself to someone you haven’t met:
Hi Camille, I came across your profile while researching social media specialists in the Portland area. Your work at XYZ Company sounds impressive. I’d love to connect on LinkedIn, as I may have some freelance social media projects later this year that could use your expertise.
Following up after meeting someone:
Great meeting you yesterday at the conference, Laura! As discussed, I’d love to connect on LinkedIn to share ideas about optimizing client onboarding processes. Looking forward to staying in touch!
Notice how each message is tailored to the existing connection with the recipient. Personal details help the request feel authentic versus generic.
Remind Them Who You Are
If it’s been a while since you last interacted with the person, politely jog their memory. Share when and where you met or worked together.
Referencing specific conversations or mutual connections can help trigger their recollection. People are more likely to accept a request from someone they remember versus a vague name from their past.
Explain Why You Want to Connect
Articulate the purpose for connecting to show you have a genuine interest. Are you hoping to stay in touch, exchange industry advice, or explore a business opportunity? Let them know upfront what your intentions are.
Even if your primary goal is simply to grow your network, share a specific reason like: “I’m connecting with more professionals in the healthcare industry to exchange ideas and best practices.”
This gives important context instead of just asking to connect out of the blue.
Include a Call to Action
End your message with a simple call to action to accept your invitation, such as:
- I’d appreciate you accepting my invitation!
- Please add me to your network.
- Let’s reconnect on LinkedIn.
This makes it easy for them to understand your request. If they need to view your profile for more context, encourage them to do so.
Proofread Before Sending
Before hitting send, double check your message for any typos or grammatical errors. Putting care into your message shows respect for the recipient’s time. An error-filled note looks sloppy and may cause them to doubt your professionalism.
Read your message aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. Remember to be friendly and gracious in your tone, not overly formal or aggressive. You want to come across as approachable so they feel comfortable accepting your invitation.
Examples of Effective Connection Messages
Reading example LinkedIn connection messages can help inspire your own wording. Here are a few more good examples:
Connecting after meeting at a conference:
Lindsey, it was a pleasure speaking with you at last week’s Content Marketing Conference. Thank you for sharing your insights on video marketing – very helpful for the work I’m doing at ABC Company. I’d love to connect so we can continue the conversation. Please feel free to reach out if I can ever be a resource to you!
Reconnecting with a former co-worker:
Hey Matt, hope you’ve been well! It’s been a few years since we worked together at XYZ Company. I have fond memories of brainstorming ways to improve our product. I’d love to reconnect on LinkedIn to catch up and stay in touch. Please add me to your network!
Connecting after an introduction:
Hi Anthony, it was great to be introduced to you by our mutual connection, Samantha. As we discussed, it would be beneficial for us to connect on LinkedIn. I am working on growing my professional network in the engineering field, and I think we could have some valuable conversations. I look forward to connecting!
Connecting with someone after meeting at a networking event:
Hi Laura, I enjoyed speaking with you at yesterday’s chamber of commerce networking event. As a financial advisor myself, it was insightful swapping tips on running a successful private practice. I’d appreciate if we connected on LinkedIn to continue the dialogue. Have a great rest of your week!
What to Avoid in Connection Messages
There are also some common pitfalls to avoid when reaching out to connect on LinkedIn:
- Don’t make it all about yourself. Keep the focus on how connecting will benefit both parties.
- Avoid being too pushy or aggressive. Be gracious if they need time to review your request.
- Don’t make irrelevant offers or promises just to entice them to connect.
- Avoid sounding unprofessional by using lazy abbreviations or poor grammar.
- Don’t overshare personal details about yourself or the recipient.
- Never ask for confidential info like the recipient’s email address or phone number.
The goal is to be polite, respectful and stay focused on your actual purpose for connecting.
Following Up After Connecting
Avoid making your initial outreach the start and end of the conversation. After connecting, follow up and add value by:
- Thanking them for accepting your invitation
- Introducing them to others in your network
- Commenting or liking their posts
- Sending them an article or other resource
- Following through if you offered to help with something specific
This helps nurture the new connection and transform it into a lasting professional relationship.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key tips for writing effective LinkedIn connection messages:
- Personalize each request based on your relationship
- Jog the recipient’s memory of who you are
- Explain your purpose for connecting
- Use a friendly yet professional tone
- Proofread for errors before sending
- Follow up after connecting to add value
Taking the time to craft thoughtful messages shows respect for the recipient and often leads to higher acceptance rates. By mastering the art of the connection request, you can proactively grow your LinkedIn network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about writing LinkedIn connection messages:
Should I send a LinkedIn request with no message?
It’s better to always include a personalized message, even if brief. Sending requests without any context frequently results in them being ignored or rejected. The message gives you a chance to jog the recipient’s memory and explain the purpose for connecting.
Is it OK to reuse the same message for all connection requests?
No, you should tailor each message to your specific relationship with the recipient. A generic, copied and pasted message lacks thoughtfulness. Take the time to make each request unique.
What if I already know the person well? Do I still need a message?
Yes, even when connecting with close contacts, include a message. Use it as a chance to say hello, catch up briefly, and share your reasons for connecting. This helps remind them of who you are and your intentions.
How soon should I expect a response after sending a connection request?
How quickly someone responds depends on many factors, including how often they check LinkedIn notifications. Don’t expect an instant response. If you haven’t heard back after 1-2 weeks, it’s OK to politely follow up. But avoid badgering someone who may need more time.
What should I do if my request is rejected?
If someone rejects your connection request, avoid taking offense. Move on and focus on other potential contacts. You can also politely ask for feedback about why they didn’t accept, in case you need to adjust your approach.
Conclusion
The LinkedIn connection message provides a valuable opportunity to put your best foot forward. Crafting thoughtful, personalized messages tailored to your relationship with the recipient takes more effort upfront but yields better results long-term. Show you genuinely want to connect, not just grow your network for the sake of numbers. With practice, you can become adept at writing messages that get accepted.
Relationship | Example Message |
---|---|
New Acquaintance | Hi Laura, I enjoyed chatting with you at last week’s industry event. As we discussed, connecting on LinkedIn would allow us to continue sharing ideas about optimizing sales funnels. I look forward to staying in touch! |
Former Colleague | Hi Matt, hope you’ve been well! It’s been a few years since we worked together at Company X. I have fond memories of collaborating on developing that new product. Let’s reconnect on LinkedIn to catch up. |
Someone You Introduced | Hi Rebecca, it was great to meet you last month during my introduction to Sam. He mentioned you have fantastic expertise in social media marketing. I’d love to connect on LinkedIn in case any freelance projects come up that could use your skills! |