A thoughtful connection request message can make a lasting first impression and increase the likelihood of someone accepting your request. Whether you’re connecting with a recruiter, industry leader, peer, or colleague, personalization is key. Here’s how to craft effective LinkedIn connection requests for different scenarios, along with templates you can use.
Avoid generic messages like “I’d like to add you to my LinkedIn network.”
State Your Purpose Clearly
Example: “I’m inspired by your work in marketing and would love to connect to learn more about your journey.”
Keep It Concise
Limit your message to 2–4 sentences. Most people skim messages, so get to the point quickly.
Be Polite and Respectful
Acknowledge their time and expertise, and don’t come across as pushy or demanding.
Avoid Asking for Too Much Upfront
Use this template if you’re interested in opportunities at a company or applying for a specific job.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I noticed your role as a recruiter at [Company], and I’m impressed by [something specific about the company, e.g., “the company’s commitment to innovation”]. I’m currently exploring opportunities in [specific field] and came across [specific job or department].
I’d love to connect and stay updated on opportunities at [Company]. Thank you for your time!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this template when reaching out to someone you admire in your field.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I’ve been following your work in [specific field] and am inspired by [specific project, article, or achievement, e.g., “your keynote on digital marketing trends”]. As someone passionate about [shared interest/field], I’d love to connect and learn from your insights.
Thank you for sharing your expertise, and I look forward to following your updates!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this template to follow up with someone you met at an event or interacted with during a webinar.
Template:
Hi [Name],
It was great attending [event/webinar name], and I really enjoyed your insights on [specific topic, e.g., “how AI is shaping the future of marketing”]. I’d love to connect and stay in touch as I explore more in this area.
Thanks again for sharing your expertise, and I hope to connect soon!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when reaching out to someone you’ve never interacted with but want to connect.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile and was impressed by your work in [specific role/industry]. As someone aspiring to grow in [shared field], I’d love to connect to learn more about your career journey.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to connecting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Leverage your shared school or university connection to build rapport.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I noticed that you’re a fellow [university name] alum! I’m currently [studying/working in specific field] and came across your profile while exploring professionals in [industry]. Your work in [specific area] caught my eye, and I’d love to connect to learn from your experience.
Thank you, and Go [School Mascot, e.g., “Tigers”]!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when reaching out to someone in your target industry or role to learn from their experience.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I hope this message finds you well! I’m currently transitioning into [specific industry/role] and came across your impressive background in [their field/role]. I’d love to connect and follow your work as I navigate my career shift.
Thank you for sharing your journey, and I hope to stay in touch!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this to reconnect with someone you’ve worked with before but lost touch with.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! It’s been a while since we worked together at [Company/Team Name], and I wanted to reconnect. I’ve always admired your expertise in [specific skill/field], and I’d love to catch up and hear what you’ve been working on lately.
Let’s stay in touch!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when someone has referred or recommended you to connect with someone they know.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! [Mutual Contact’s Name] suggested I reach out to you as they mentioned your expertise in [specific field]. I’m currently [describe your situation or goal] and would love to connect to learn more about your work at [specific company/industry].
Thank you for your time, and I hope to connect soon!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this to connect and gently request time to ask for advice or insights about a specific role or industry.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I came across your profile while researching [specific industry/role] and was inspired by your impressive career at [Company]. As someone aspiring to break into [field], I’d love to connect and, if possible, ask a few questions about your experience.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to connecting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Message:
Hi [Name],
Thank you for accepting my connection request! I really admire your work in [specific area], and I’m excited to stay connected and learn more about your insights. Please let me know if there’s ever a way I can support you or your work!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Crafting thoughtful LinkedIn connection requests is an important skill for networking and growing your professional network. By following these tips and using the templates, you’ll increase the chances of building meaningful relationships that can help you in your career.