Quick Answers
When reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn, the subject line of your message is your first impression. You want it to grab the recruiter’s attention and encourage them to open your message. Here are some tips for writing effective LinkedIn subject lines for recruiters:
- Keep it short, clear and relevant – Get to the point in under 50 characters
- Mention the job you’re interested in – Include the role title and/or job ID if applicable
- Say you’re applying for a specific role
- Highlight your relevant skills or experience
- Refer to a common connection if applicable
Avoid vague subject lines that won’t stand out, like “LinkedIn message” or “Job opportunity”. Make sure your subject line speaks to why you are uniquely qualified for the role.
Elaborate on Why the Subject Line Matters
The subject line of a LinkedIn message to a recruiter is your chance to make a strong first impression. Recruiters are busy, and a vague or overly salesy subject line is likely to be ignored. An effective subject line quickly communicates why you are reaching out and compels the recruiter to open your message.
Think of the subject line as a mini “elevator pitch” – you only have a few seconds to pique the recruiter’s interest before they decide whether to engage further. Focus on concrete details like the specific job title and your most relevant skills or experience. Avoid generic superlatives like “Experienced professional interested in growth opportunities”.
The subject line is valuable real estate, so make every character count. Be clear, concise and compelling. This takes effort, but a tailored subject line shows you are detail-oriented and serious about the role. A thoughtful subject line also makes the recruiter’s job easier by setting context right away.
Best Practices and Examples
Here are some best practices and examples of effective subject lines for LinkedIn messages to recruiters:
Mention the Job Title
Include the role title so the recruiter immediately knows what position you are applying for:
- “Application for Software Engineer role”
- “Interested in Project Manager position”
If you have the job ID, you can include that as well:
- “Application for job ID 129384”
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Briefly summarize your background as it relates to the job:
- “5+ years Android development experience”
- “Product Marketing background – Interested in Growth Manager role”
This signals to the recruiter that you have the required qualifications.
Mention Any Common Connections
Name drop any shared connections to establish rapport:
- “Referred by Susan Jones for Account Executive role”
- “Former colleague of Nick Smith – Applying for Sales Engineer position”
This gives the recruiter helpful context upfront.
Explain You Are Applying for the Role
Clarify the purpose of your outreach:
- “Applying for Customer Support Specialist role”
- “Interested in Operations Manager position”
This gives the recruiter a sense of urgency to open your message.
What to Avoid in a Subject Line
While crafting your subject line, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Being too vague – “LinkedIn Message” or “Job Opportunity”
- Using canned subject lines – “Let’s Connect”
- Making it too salesy – “Experienced Leader Eager for New Challenge”
- Using odd abbreviations or characters to attract attention
- Forgetting to address the specific role
These types of subject lines are likely to be ignored or perceived as spammy.
Tips for Writing the Message Body
Once you’ve crafted an effective subject line, follow these tips when writing the body of your message:
- Personalize the message by referring to the recruiter by name and company
- Briefly summarize your background and interest in the first paragraph
- Explain how your skills and experience align with the job requirements
- Mention any connections you have to the company or individuals
- Express enthusiasm and reiterate your interest in the role
- Provide links to your LinkedIn profile and resume or portfolio
- Close by suggesting next steps and thanking the recruiter
Keep the message concise at 3-5 paragraphs. Use a formal tone, proper grammar and sentence structure throughout. This shows professionalism and attention to detail.
Crafting Subject Lines for Different Recruiters
You may need to adjust your approach when messaging recruiters from different types of organizations:
Corporate Recruiters
Focus on skills, experience and cultural fit:
- “Finance professional interested in FP&A Manager role at XYZ”
- “3 years of digital marketing experience – Social Media Coordinator role”
Staffing Agency Recruiters
Emphasize your interest in contract or temporary roles:
- “Seeking 6 month Web Developer contract in Chicago area”
Executive Recruiters
For senior level roles, highlight leadership experience:
- “Nonprofit COO applying for Executive Director position”
Startup Recruiters
Show passion for their mission and culture:
- “Excited to bring my analytics expertise to eco-startup”
University Recruiters
Specify your graduation timeline:
- “Finance Major Graduating in May – Interested in Analyst Development Program”
Research the organization before reaching out so you can tailor your approach accordingly.
Following Up Politely
If you haven’t heard back from the recruiter after about a week, consider sending a polite follow up:
- Thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the role
- Offer to provide any additional information needed
- Consider adjusting your original subject line slightly to get noticed again in their inbox:
- Original: “Applying for Project Manager Role”
- Follow up: “Checking on Project Manager Role Application”
However, avoid pestering the recruiter repeatedly. If they do not respond after a few follow up attempts, it may be time to move on. Continue applying to other openings and networking with other recruiters.
Key Takeaways
- Keep the LinkedIn subject line concise, clear and compelling
- Include the job title and highlight relevant skills and experience
- Personalize the message body and explain how you are a fit
- Research the company to customize your approach
- Follow up once if you don’t hear back, but avoid badgering the recruiter
Investing time in crafting the right subject line and message can help your application stand out from the crowd.
| Subject Line Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Mention job title | “Application for Social Media Manager role at XYZ” |
| Highlight relevant skills | “8 years experience in digital marketing and project management” |
| Name drop connections | “Referred by former colleague Jamie Smith for Sales Rep position” |
| Express interest in role | “Very interested in Operations Associate opportunity” |
| What to Avoid | “Experienced marketing professional looking for growth” |
Conclusion
A carefully crafted LinkedIn subject line is vital when messaging recruiters about job opportunities. Set yourself apart by tailoring it to the specific role, highlighting relevant background, and clearly expressing your interest. Avoid vague or overly salesy language. Apply these best practices to get your message opened and give your candidacy serious consideration.
