We all know LinkedIn is a goldmine for professional networking. But simply hitting that “connect” button while on someone’s profile doesn’t guarantee a response. The right solution is a powerful connection message that grabs attention and makes you stand out.
Think of it like this: You find a potential client, collaborator, or industry leader. Their profile screams “dream connection,” but a generic message feels…well, generic. So, how do you create a perfect LinkedIn message to connect?
Follow this guide to craft a powerful LinkedIn connect message that gets noticed and helps you nurture valuable relationships. We’ll discuss everything you want to learn about the connect message on LinkedIn and then provide you with LinkedIn connect message examples that you can customize to your needs.
What Is a LinkedIn Connect Message?
A LinkedIn connect message is a brief introductory message sent to someone on the platform when you want them to become your 1st-degree connection. It serves as a way to establish a connection with the individual and often includes a personalized note explaining why you’re interested in connecting with them.
This feature on LinkedIn allows you to start building relationships and professionally network with others in your industry or field of interest.
It allows you to:
- Introduce yourself: Who are you, and why do you want to connect?
- Showcase your value: What unique skills or experience can you bring to the table?
- Leave a lasting impression: Make them remember you for the right reasons (not the generic “Hi there!” approach).
What Are the Different Types of LinkedIn Connections?
Your network consists of various “degrees” of connection, and each one requires a slightly different approach.
Here’s a breakdown of the types of LinkedIn connections:
- 1st-Degree Connections: These are the people you’re already connected with on LinkedIn. This could be a former colleague, someone you met at an industry event, or even a classmate from years ago. Since you are already connected, you don’t need to send them a connection request again.
- 2nd-Degree Connections: These connections are one step away from your 1st-degree circle. They’re people who share a connection with someone in your network. This could be a colleague of a former colleague or someone you met briefly at a conference where a mutual friend made introductions.
- 3rd-Degree Connections (and beyond): As you venture further out in your network, you’ll encounter 3rd-degree connections (and potentially even further). These are typically people you have no direct or indirect connection with on LinkedIn. This is where personalization becomes even more critical.
The closer the degree of connection, the more casual your message can be. For more distant connections, put on your research hat and personalize your message to stand out from the crowd.
The Best LinkedIn Connection Request Message Templates
Now, let’s explore how to write LinkedIn connection request messages with the help of templates! Remember, the best LinkedIn connection request message is specific, personalized, and offers value.
Check out our customized templates for LinkedIn connection request messages. Take inspiration and tailor these LinkedIn connection request examples to your preferences.
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to a CEO
CEOs are busy bees. As such, you should keep your message concise and highlight a specific reason for connecting. Show them you’ve done your research and value their work.
The following template flatters the CEO by mentioning a specific accomplishment and then expressing genuine interest in a particular project. It opens the door for potential future interaction without being overly demanding of their time.
Here’s a sample of LinkedIn messages to connect with CEOs.
Template:
Hi [CEO Name],
I’m really impressed with [Company Name]’s recent achievements in [Area of Achievement]. As a [Your Title] at [Your Company], I’m particularly interested in your work on [Specific Initiative].
I’d love to connect and potentially learn more about your professional journey.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Your Boss
This one’s a no-brainer. Since your boss already knows you in person, just try to keep it professional but friendly. Also, show appreciation for their leadership and express your desire to stay connected.
Below is a simple LinkedIn connect message template that you can use to strengthen your professional relationship with your boss and demonstrate your respect for their leadership.
Template:
Hi [Boss’s Name],
It’s great to connect with you on LinkedIn! I’m always learning so much from your leadership at [Company Name].
Let’s connect and team up on upcoming projects!
Best,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Colleagues and Co-Workers
Connecting with a colleague or co-worker is your chance to build internal relationships. In your message, highlight a shared experience or project to personalize the message and establish a friendly connection.
You could reference a specific project and compliment their work. It will help create a sense of camaraderie and open the door for future collaboration.
Template:
Hi [Colleague’s Name],
Great connecting with you on LinkedIn! Working with you on the [Project Name] project was a pleasure. Your contribution to [Specific Area] was invaluable.
Looking forward to staying in touch and collaborating on future initiatives.
Best,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Someone You Want to Work With
This is your chance to build a bridge for potential collaboration. Your connection request message should show genuine interest in their work and describe how your expertise could be beneficial for them.
Below is a good LinkedIn message to connect with someone you dream of working with. It acknowledges their expertise and then subtly suggests a mutually beneficial collaboration.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I’ve been following your work at [Company Name] for some time, particularly your insights on [Area of Expertise]. At [Your Company], we’re passionate about [Your Company’s Area of Expertise].
Our skills could be a great fit for a potential collaboration. Would you be open to connecting?
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to HR
So you’ve come across a dream job posting, and the hiring manager’s profile is calling your name. A well-crafted connection request to the HR representative responsible for the position can be a powerful way to get your foot in the door.
But don’t just say “Hi, I’m interested in working at your company!” Instead, take a few minutes to research the HR person and the company. Mention a specific aspect of the company’s work that resonates with you or a recent achievement that caught your eye.
Here’s the best LinkedIn connection request message to connect with HR.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I’m a highly motivated [Your Job Title] with [Number] years of experience in [Your Industry]. I was particularly impressed with [Company Name]’s recent work on [Specific Initiative/Project]. My skills in [Specific Skills] align perfectly with the requirements outlined in the [Job Title] posting.
I’d love to connect and learn more about exciting career opportunities at [Company Name].
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Recruiter
Recruiters hold the keys to a treasure trove of potential job opportunities. When you write the best LinkedIn message to connect, it can open doors and land you in front of the right hiring managers.
Your message should grab a recruiter’s attention and showcase your value.
Don’t send the same message to every recruiter you meet. Research the recruiter’s area of expertise and focus on those that align with your skills and desired career path.
Also, keep in mind that recruiters are bombarded with requests. As such, you should think: What makes you stand out? Be sure to briefly showcase your most relevant skills, experience, and career goals.
Template:
Hi [Recruiter Name],
I’m a highly motivated [Your Job Title] with [Number] years of experience in [Your Industry]. I’m particularly impressed with your track record of placing candidates in [Area of Expertise] roles.
I’m currently seeking a role in [Desired Role/Industry] and I’m confident my skills and experience can be a valuable asset to my future employers.
Would you be open to connecting and discussing potential opportunities?
Thank you for your time and consideration,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Interviewer
So you aced your interview (or at least, that’s how it felt!), and now you want to stay connected with the interviewer. The perfect LinkedIn connection request message can leave a positive final impression and potentially open doors for future opportunities within the company.
When writing a connect message, remember to mention a specific detail from your interview to personalize the message and jog their memory. Plus, reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and briefly touch on the skills and qualifications that make you a good fit.
Here’s a LinkedIn connection request message template that you can use to connect with an interviewer.
Template:
Hi [Interviewer Name],
It was a pleasure meeting you today and learning more about the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I particularly enjoyed our discussion about [Specific topic discussed].
I would love to connect with you on LinkedIn to stay in touch and learn more about exciting opportunities at [Company Name] in the future.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Candidate
As a recruiter or hiring manager, you know that today’s competitive talent market requires a strategic approach to attracting top candidates. A well-crafted LinkedIn connect message is one of the best ways to spark genuine interest and land the best fit for your open role.
But wait! Don’t just blast out generic messages. Instead, research your target candidate’s profile and tailor your message accordingly. It is a good idea to mention a specific skill or experience that caught your eye, or a project they’ve worked on that aligns with the open position.
Tailor the following LinkedIn connection request example to connect with potential candidates.
Template:
Hi [Candidate Name],
I came across your profile on LinkedIn and I was impressed with your experience in [Specific Area of Expertise].
I particularly noticed your work on [Specific Project/Achievement] at [Previous Company]. Your expertise in [Specific Skills] would be a valuable asset to our team as we tackle [Brief description of a current project/challenge].
Would you be open to connecting and learning more about the [Job Title]?
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Alumni
The power of shared experiences can’t be underestimated, especially when it comes to networking. Fellow alumni from your alma mater can be valuable connections, offering insights, career advice, and even potential business opportunities.
When crafting a connect message on LinkedIn, mention your shared alma mater and a specific detail from your time there (e.g., a sports team you both cheered for, a professor you admired, or a particularly memorable campus event).
Template:
Hi [Alumnus Name],
I came across your profile on LinkedIn and noticed you’re a fellow [School Name] alum from [Graduation Year]. I remember spending countless hours cheering on the [Sports Team] with a group of friends (including myself!).
I’m currently working as a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company]. I’d love to connect and learn more about your career path since graduation.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Professor
Professors can be invaluable mentors and advisors, offering guidance, industry insights, and even potential recommendations down the line. As such, it makes sense to connect and network with them.
In your LinkedIn connection request, make sure to acknowledge the professor’s accomplishments and contributions to their field. It is also good to briefly mention a specific area of their research or a course you particularly enjoyed.
Template:
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I was a student in your [Course Name] class at [University Name] during [Semester/Year].
I’ve always been fascinated by your work on [Specific Area of Research].
I’d love to connect with you on LinkedIn to stay updated on your latest research.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Conference or Event Attendee
Conferences and events are goldmines for networking, but how do you follow up with someone you met in that fleeting hallway chat? LinkedIn has your back.
Your LinkedIn connect message’s first line should remind them who you are and where you met. Also, show them you weren’t just making casual conversation and briefly reference something specific you discussed and how you can connect further.
Template:
Hi [Name]
I enjoyed our conversation at the [Event Name] panel on AI. Your experience in [Area] is impressive. Let’s connect.
Thanks.
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Mutual Connection
Mutual connections are a goldmine for expanding your network! They offer a level of trust and familiarity that can make your connection request more likely to be accepted. You can leverage this shared connection to personalize your LinkedIn outreach and build rapport.
In your connection request, mention the name of the mutual connection and briefly mention the person’s area of expertise as mentioned by the mutual connection (if applicable). And don’t forget to mention your own area of expertise to showcase potential common ground.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I noticed we’re both connected to [Mutual Connection Name]. [He/She] spoke highly of your work in [Area of Expertise].
I’m also interested in [Your Area of Expertise] and would love to connect and learn more about your experience.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Someone in the Same LinkedIn Group
LinkedIn groups provide you with a great opportunity to connect with professionals who share your interests.
While writing your connect message, be sure to mention the specific LinkedIn group you both belong to. This will help establish common ground and show you’ve taken the initiative to learn more about their profile.
Also, go beyond the group itself. For example, you can briefly mention a shared interest you discovered from their profile or previous discussions within the group.
Check out the following LinkedIn connection request example for your inspiration.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile through the [Group Name] group on LinkedIn. Your recent post on [Topic] was insightful, particularly your point about [Specific detail].
I’m also interested in [Shared Interest], which I saw mentioned in your profile bio.
I’d love to connect and hear more about your thoughts on [Topic].
Thanks,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Influencer
Influencers hold significant sway in their respective fields. Connecting with these individuals can open doors to potential collaborations, learning opportunities, or simply staying in touch with industry thought leaders.
Your LinkedIn connection request message should ideally acknowledge the influencer’s accomplishments and contributions to their field. Plus, you can mention a specific piece of content you enjoyed or an area of their expertise that resonates with you.
While praise is nice, you should demonstrate that you’re not just a fan. It is a good idea to state your own area of expertise or how your skills/experience could complement theirs.
Template:
Hi [Influencer Name],
I’ve been a follower of your work for a while now, particularly your insights on [Area of Expertise]. Your recent article on [Topic] in [Publication] was particularly thought-provoking, especially your point about [Specific detail].
In my work as a [Your Job Title], I’m also passionate about [Your Area of Expertise]. I believe there could be potential for collaboration or knowledge sharing in the future.
I’d love to connect and learn more about your work.
Thanks for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message Using Industry Humor
Are you tired of the same old connection requests? Want to stand out from the crowd and spark a smile? A well-placed industry joke can be a great way to break the ice and make a memorable first impression on potential connections.
In doing so, keep in mind that humor is subjective. This means you should first consider the person you’re reaching out to. Would they appreciate a lighthearted approach? Make sure to research their profile and content to gauge their sense of humor.
Also, use a joke or reference that’s relevant to your industry. This shows you’re not just copying and pasting, but genuinely engaged in the field. And if you do use a joke, avoid anything offensive, insensitive, or based on stereotypes.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I saw your post about [Industry Topic] and it got me thinking… How many [Industry Job Title] professionals does it take to change a light bulb? (Don’t worry, I’ll resist the urge to tell the actual joke!)
In all seriousness, your work on [Area of Expertise] is impressive. I’m a [Your Job Title] with a passion for [Your Area of Expertise]. Would love to connect and learn more about your experience.
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Those Who Went to the Same School as You
Connecting with people who went to the same school as you can be a great way to network. Your connection request message in this scenario should spark nostalgia and demonstrate your shared experience.
Make sure to reference your school name, mascot (optional), or a specific event/tradition to evoke a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie. Plus, you can personalize the message by mentioning some information from their profile, a mutual connection, or a course/professor you both might have shared (if applicable).
Template:
Hi [Name],
I saw your LinkedIn profile and noticed we’re both [School Name] graduates from [Graduation Year] (or [Specific Era] if different years).
I saw your work at [Company Name]. That’s impressive! [Optional: If applicable] I remember Professor [Professor’s Name]’s [Course Name] class being particularly mind-blowing.
I’d love to connect and hear more about your experience since graduation.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Unknown Person
While reaching out to someone you don’t know on LinkedIn can feel daunting, it’s a fantastic way to expand your network and discover new opportunities.
When inviting these people to connect, you should first check out their profile to find a point of connection. This could be a shared skill, industry experience, or even a mutual connection (if applicable).
And don’t just ask to connect. Instead, briefly mention why you’re reaching out and how you might be a valuable connection for them.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I found your LinkedIn profile and was impressed by your expertise in [Area of Expertise]. [Optional: Mention a specific detail from their profile related to the common ground].
I’m working as a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company] and I’m also interested in [Your Area of Expertise], which aligns with your work on [Their Area of Expertise].
I’d love to connect and learn more about your work at [Their Company].
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message for Collaboration
Looking for potential collaborators on LinkedIn? Your connection request message can be the first step towards exciting new projects and partnerships.
- Mention something from their profile that aligns with your area of interest or potential collaboration.
- Be upfront about your desire to collaborate.
- Refer to a project or area where your skills and theirs could complement each other.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile and was impressed by your work on [Area of Expertise]. Your project on [Specific Project] particularly resonated with me, as I’m also passionate about [Your Area of Expertise].
I’m currently working on [Your Project/Area of Focus] and believe our combined expertise could be valuable. Would you be open to exploring a potential collaboration?
I’d love to connect and learn more about your work.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message for Sales
Turning LinkedIn connections into valuable sales leads requires a well-crafted message that piques their interest and positions you as a solution provider.
You should first research the prospect’s profile, company, and recent industry news. Next, mention a specific pain point they might be facing or a recent accomplishment you found impressive.
Then weave in a subtle reference to a common challenge faced by their industry or company size. This emphasizes that you understand their needs.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile and noticed you’re the [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I was particularly impressed with [Specific achievement/recent news].
At [Your Company], we help businesses like yours overcome challenges in [Your Area of Expertise]. Many companies in the [Industry] struggle with [Common Pain Point].
Let’s connect and learn more about our professional journeys.
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Prospect
Before writing your message, visit your prospect’s LinkedIn profile and take some time to understand their background, job title, company, and recent activity.
Next, mention something specific from their profile that caught your eye (e.g., a recent project, achievement, or shared skill). You can also briefly reference a common industry challenge faced by their company size or industry.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I saw your profile and was impressed with your work on [Specific achievement/project]. In today’s [Industry], many companies struggle with [Common pain point].
Would love to connect and learn more about your experience at [Company Name]. Perhaps we could chat about industry trends or how [Your Company] can assist?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Potential Client
It’s no wonder that LinkedIn is an excellent place to find clients for your business. Your connection request is a perfect way to get your foot in the door.
Keep these things in mind when writing your LinkedIn connect request message:
- Mention something from their profile that caught your eye (e.g., a recent achievement, project, or shared skill).
- Reference a common industry challenge faced by their company size or industry.
- Mention how your company can address their potential pain point or showcase your unique selling proposition.
- End with a clear request to connect and discuss further.
Template:
Hi [Name],
Impressed by your work on [Specific achievement] at [Company Name]. Many in [Industry] face [Pain point]. At [Your Company], we help with [Benefit].
Would love to connect & discuss industry trends or how we can assist [Company Name].
Thanks,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn Connection Request Message to Client
Here’s how to send a connect message to a client on LinkedIn
- Highlight a recent achievement to show you’re following their work.
- Briefly connect your company’s expertise to their industry’s needs.
- Focus on their goals and how you can be a valuable resource.
- Express interest in a future conversation without being pushy.
Template:
Hi [Name],
Great work on [Specific achievement/project]! At [Your Company], we’re passionate about helping clients in [Industry] achieve [Benefit related to their industry].
Looking forward to connecting and learning more about your goals for [Company Name].
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Now that you have these templates and tips, what kind of connection will you make on LinkedIn today? The possibilities are endless!
Take the first step towards building your professional network – craft a compelling connection request message using the templates above, and watch your network flourish!