Quick Answer
On LinkedIn, when you try to connect with someone you don’t already know, the button will say “Message” instead of “Connect.” This is because LinkedIn wants you to send a personalized message when requesting to connect with new people, rather than sending generic connect requests. Sending a message allows you to explain who you are and why you want to connect.
Detailed Explanation
When you go to someone’s LinkedIn profile that you are not already connected with, the main call-to-action button will say “Message” rather than “Connect.” This is an intentional design by LinkedIn to encourage users to personalized their connection requests.
LinkedIn wants to move away from users sending generic, impersonal connection requests. In the past, people would connect with anyone and everyone without explanation. This led to many connections between people who didn’t actually know each other or have any common interests or intentions for connecting.
By making the button say “Message” instead of “Connect,” LinkedIn nudges users to introduce themselves and explain why they want to connect with someone. Some examples of messages you can send when requesting a connection include:
- Hi [name], I came across your profile and saw that you work at [company]. I’ve been interested in learning more about the industry. Would you be open to connecting?
- Hello [name], my name is [your name] and I also work in [industry]. I’m really impressed with your background and would love to connect.
- Hi [name], I saw on your profile that you have experience in [skill]. I am looking to strengthen my skills in that area and would appreciate connecting and learning from your experience.
Sending a personalized message like this gives the recipient context about who you are and why you want to connect. This provides value to them right off the bat and makes them more inclined to accept your request. Generic requests often get ignored or rejected.
Benefits of Personalized Connection Requests
There are a few key benefits to sending personalized connection requests on LinkedIn:
- Higher acceptance rate – People are more likely to accept your request when they understand who you are and how you can help each other.
- Starts the relationship off strong – Sending an introductory message lays the groundwork for a mutually beneficial connection.
- Shows extra effort – Taking the time to craft a custom message shows you care about establishing a real relationship.
- Allows screening – The recipient can review your message and profile to determine if connecting makes sense.
Overall, sending more meaningful connection requests results in fewer generic contacts and more valuable, long-term connections with other professionals in your industry.
How to Send a Message Request on LinkedIn
If you want to connect with someone on LinkedIn that you don’t already know, follow these steps:
- Go to their profile page.
- Click the “Message” button in the top right corner of their profile.
- Type your message explaining who you are and why you want to connect.
- Check the box that says “Add a note” to send the text as an InMail message.
- Click “Send.”
The recipient will receive your InMail message along with a prompt to accept your connection request.
Tips for Personalized Messaging
Here are some tips to create effective personalized connection requests:
- Be clear about who you are – Name, position, company, industry, etc.
- Explain why you want to connect – How you share interests, goals, connections, etc.
- Point out common ground – Groups, employers, schools, etc. you have in common.
- Keep it short but personalized – No more than 2-3 sentences.
- Use a warm and enthusiastic tone.
- Follow up if they don’t respond after a week or two.
The Value of Quality Connections on LinkedIn
Having a lot of LinkedIn connections can seem impressive, but it’s the quality of those connections that really matters. Here’s an overview of why meaningful connections are so valuable on LinkedIn.
They Allow You to Build Relationships
Instead of just amassing contacts, quality connections allow you to nurture ongoing professional relationships. You can strengthen bonds by engaging with their content, sending messages, providing recommendations, and meeting up in-person at events.
They Help Your Reach and Visibility
When you connect with influential and well-connected people in your industry, it expands your own reach and visibility. Their networks will overlap with yours, spreading brand awareness.
They Give Access to Insights and Expertise
Connections who work at companies or in roles you aspire to can provide valuable insights and expertise. You can learn from their experience and get advice.
They Increase Opportunities
Connections often turn into professional opportunities down the road. Whether it’s a job, a project collaboration, board participation, or other chance, networks lead to new possibilities.
They Allow Endorsements and Recommendations
Quality connections are more willing to endorse you for your top skills and write you recommendations. This adds credibility to your brand.
The more strategic, mutually beneficial connections you build, the more value you’ll get from your overall LinkedIn network. Focus on quality over quantity.
Tips for Managing Your LinkedIn Network
Here are some additional tips for maintaining a strong, active network on LinkedIn:
- Connect with a purpose – Don’t just connect randomly with people.
- Segment your network – Organize connections into lists like Classmates, Colleagues, Customers, etc.
- Regularly engage – Like and comment on posts, share articles, participate in discussions.
- Provide value – Share information and opportunities that may interest your connections.
- Congratulate updates – Recognize new jobs, promotions, work anniversaries, etc.
- Follow up – If you meet people in-person, send a LinkedIn request after.
- Comb through contacts – Do an audit annually and remove outdated connections.
By actively managing your network, you’ll get much more out of LinkedIn for your career and business.
Conclusion
LinkedIn changing the Connect button to say Message instead forces you to send personalized requests when connecting with new people. This results in more meaningful connections that can benefit your career over the long-term. Make sure to customize your messages, highlight common ground, and explain why you want to connect. Nurture relationships proactively once connected. The quality and engagement of your network leads to more opportunities and visibility.
