Reaching out to someone for networking can feel intimidating, but a well-crafted message can make all the difference. Whether you’re connecting with someone on LinkedIn, following up after meeting at an event, or cold-emailing a professional in your field, the key is to be polite, genuine, and specific about your purpose. Here’s how to craft networking messages with examples for various scenarios!
Use this template when reaching out to someone you don’t know but admire or want to learn from.
Subject/Opening Line: Request to Connect
Message:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile and noticed your impressive experience in [industry/role]. I’m currently [describe your role/goal, e.g., “exploring opportunities in project management”] and would love to connect to learn more about your journey as a [specific role].
If you have any advice for someone looking to [specific goal, e.g., “transition into tech”], I’d greatly appreciate it! Thank you for your time, and I look forward to connecting.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when following up with someone you’ve recently met (e.g., at a conference or networking event).
Subject/Opening Line: Great Meeting You at [Event]
Message:
Hi [Name],
It was a pleasure meeting you at [event name]! I enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic you discussed] and appreciated your insights on [specific takeaway].
I’d love to stay connected and learn more about your work in [industry/role]. Please let me know if there’s a good time for a quick coffee chat or virtual meeting—I’d value the opportunity to continue our conversation.
Thanks again, and I hope to connect soon!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when reaching out to someone for career advice or insights about their role/industry.
Subject/Opening Line: Seeking Advice on [Industry/Role]
Message:
Hi [Name],
I hope this message finds you well! My name is [Your Name], and I’m [describe your current position or goals, e.g., “a recent marketing graduate interested in digital advertising”]. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience at [company name/role].
I’d love to hear more about your career path and any advice you have for someone looking to break into [specific industry or role]. Would you be open to a quick 15–20-minute virtual coffee chat? I completely understand if you’re busy, but I’d greatly value your insights.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when a mutual contact has suggested that you connect with someone.
Subject/Opening Line: [Mutual Contact’s Name] Suggested I Reach Out
Message:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! [Mutual Contact’s Name] recommended that I reach out to you, as they mentioned your expertise in [specific industry/role]. I’m currently [describe your role or goal] and am eager to learn more about [specific topic, e.g., “working in corporate finance”].
If you have time, I’d love the chance to ask you a few questions about your experience at [specific company/industry]. Thank you in advance for considering, and I’d be happy to work around your schedule!
Looking forward to connecting.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when requesting a referral for a job opening.
Subject/Opening Line: Application for [Position] at [Company]
Message:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m reaching out because I noticed a job opening for [specific position] at [company name], and I saw that you’re connected to the team. I’m really excited about this opportunity, as my skills in [specific skills] align well with the role’s requirements.
If you’re comfortable, I’d greatly appreciate it if you could share my resume with the hiring manager or provide a referral. Please let me know if you’d like any additional details about my background or qualifications.
Thank you so much for your time and support—I truly appreciate it!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this when reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Subject/Opening Line: It’s Been a While!
Message:
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well! It’s been a while since we last connected, and I wanted to reach out and see how things are going for you at [company].
I’m currently [describe your situation, e.g., “exploring new opportunities in data analytics”] and thought of you because of your expertise in [specific field]. I’d love to catch up and hear your thoughts on the industry, as well as any advice you might have for someone in my position.
Let me know if you’d be open to a quick chat in the coming weeks. Looking forward to reconnecting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Use this to express gratitude after someone has taken the time to meet or help you.
Subject/Opening Line: Thank You for Your Time
Message:
Hi [Name],
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me earlier! I truly appreciated your insights on [specific topic] and found your advice about [specific takeaway] incredibly valuable.
I’ll be sure to [action you plan to take based on their advice, e.g., “research the certifications you recommended”]. Please let me know if there’s ever a way I can return the favor or support you in the future.
Thanks again, and I hope we can stay connected!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Networking messages are a powerful way to connect with professionals, but the key is genuine intent. Focus on building meaningful relationships, offering value, and being clear in your communication. With the right approach, you’ll turn conversations into opportunities and build a strong professional network.