Reaching out to a stranger to connect can sometimes feel daunting. You may wonder, “What do I say?” or “How do I approach this?” However, it does not have to be an overwhelming process. Here are five tips on how to write a good connection message:
1) Include your photo
People are more likely to respond to a friendly face than just text on a screen, so be sure your LinkedIn profile includes a clear, professional photo – one where you’re smiling and the only person in the frame (no group shots or pets).
2) Keep it brief
Get to the point with your message. Someone who receives a short, tailored message is more likely to respond – Remember, if you are adding a note on a LinkedIn invitation, there is a 200-character limit!
3) State connection first
Mentioning your connection up front gives the recipient a reason to care and increases the chances your message will be read. Examples of connections include a shared interest in a role or company, alumni affiliation, or a professor or mentor who referred you.
4) Tell them why you’d like to connect
Be specific about why you’d like to connect so they don’t think you are just trying to add connections on LinkedIn. However, don’t ask for a job specifically – you may scare off your contact, who may have nothing to do with hiring. Instead, if you ask to discuss the company, the industry itself or your contact’s career path and current position, it feels more like a request for a conversation, not a job interview.
5) Maintain control of follow-up
This helps close the gap of time it may take to get back to you. For example, close your message by stating you understand they may have a busy schedule and if they do not reply, you will follow up in a week; this provides the opportunity to contact them again – just make sure that you do!
Example of Informational Interview Request on LinkedIn
(Character Limit of 200)
Hi Sam, I’m a UCB junior exploring marketing careers in the tech sector. Would you be open to a 20–30 minute chat so I can learn about your path? Thanks, Rose
Example of Networking Request on LinkedIn
Hi Vera, I’m a UCB senior in Rhetoric starting a job search in nonprofit communications. Would you be open to a 20–30 min chat so I can learn about your path & any advice you might have? Thanks, Noah