LinkedIn is a powerful platform for networking, job searching, and business development. However, reaching out to someone via LinkedIn messages can feel intimidating, especially if you’re looking for a job, trying to make a sale, or seeking advice. To make your outreach effective, it’s essential to write messages that stand out and get responses. Here’s a guide on how to write LinkedIn messages that get noticed and prompt meaningful replies.
1. Personalize Your Message
The first rule of LinkedIn messaging is to avoid sending generic messages. Personalized messages show that you’ve taken the time to understand the recipient’s background, making them more likely to respond. A one-size-fits-all approach often comes off as spammy and gets ignored.
How to Personalize:
- Use Their Name: Always start your message by addressing the person by their first name.
- Reference Their Work: Mention something specific about the recipient, like a recent post they made, their job position, or a project they’ve worked on.
- Show a Common Interest: If you have mutual connections, work in the same industry, or attended the same school, bring that up in the message.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I recently came across your post on [specific topic] and found your insights really valuable, especially the part about [specific point]. I’d love to connect and learn more about your work in [industry/field].”
2. Keep It Short and Concise
Busy professionals don’t have time to read long, drawn-out messages. Keep your LinkedIn message clear, concise, and straight to the point. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 3-5 sentences. The goal is to pique their interest, not overwhelm them with information.
Key Tips:
- Avoid Rambling: Get straight to the purpose of your message within the first sentence or two.
- Focus on Value: Let them know how connecting or replying to you could benefit them.
- Leave Detailed Information for Follow-Up: If you need to provide more information, offer to follow up with more details later.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I saw that you’re leading [specific department] at [Company Name]. I’m working on a project that aligns with your goals around [specific objective]. Would you be open to a brief chat to explore potential synergies?”
3. State Your Purpose Clearly
Don’t make the recipient guess why you’re reaching out. Be upfront about your intentions in the message. Whether you’re looking for advice, a partnership, or a job referral, be clear about what you’re asking for.
Examples of Purpose Statements:
- Networking: “I’d love to connect and learn more about your experience in [industry].”
- Advice: “I’m currently transitioning into [industry/role], and I’d appreciate any advice you could offer.”
- Collaboration: “I believe we could explore some mutually beneficial opportunities between our companies.”
- Job Inquiry: “I noticed that your team is hiring for [position]. I’d love to discuss how my experience could be a great fit.”
Example:
“Hi [Name], I’m exploring new opportunities in [field] and noticed your role at [Company]. I’d really appreciate any insights you could share about your experience or advice on how to stand out in this industry.”
4. Focus on the Recipient’s Needs
LinkedIn messages that are overly focused on your own needs are less likely to get responses. To improve your chances, shift the focus toward how you can provide value to the recipient. What’s in it for them? Whether it’s offering a solution, answering a question, or providing helpful information, give the recipient a reason to engage with you.
Ways to Add Value:
- Offer Relevant Information: Share an article or resource that might be relevant to their industry or role.
- Provide a Solution: Mention how your expertise or product can solve a problem they might be facing.
- Show Genuine Interest: Ask for their opinion or feedback on a topic relevant to their expertise.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I recently worked on a case study about [specific industry challenge], and I thought it might align with some of the work you’re doing at [Company]. I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect!”
5. Include a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
End your LinkedIn message with a clear and simple call-to-action (CTA). Don’t leave it up to the recipient to guess what the next step should be. Whether you want them to schedule a call, check out your portfolio, or simply reply to the message, state it directly.
Examples of Strong CTAs:
- “Would you be open to a 15-minute call next week?”
- “Could we schedule a quick chat to discuss this in more detail?”
- “I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to reply whenever you have a moment.”
Make sure the CTA is easy to act on. Avoid asking for too much of their time upfront (such as an hour-long meeting), especially if they don’t know you well.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I believe we could explore some ways to collaborate. Would you be available for a quick 10-minute call this week?”
6. Avoid Overly Salesy Language
LinkedIn is a professional platform, and while it can be great for business development, coming across as overly salesy can be a turnoff. If your message feels too much like a sales pitch right off the bat, recipients may ignore it or decline to connect.
How to Sound Genuine:
- Focus on building a relationship before making a sales pitch.
- Be helpful and offer value before asking for something in return.
- Use conversational language rather than jargon-heavy sales speak.
Example:
Instead of: “I have a product that will revolutionize your business. Let’s book a demo today.”
Try: “I noticed your team is focused on [specific area]. We’ve helped companies like yours achieve [specific result]. Would you be open to learning more?”
7. Use Proper Etiquette and Tone
It’s important to maintain a professional yet friendly tone in your LinkedIn messages. Being overly formal can come across as cold, while being too casual might make you seem unprofessional. Aim for a balance that feels conversational and respectful.
Tips for Professional Etiquette:
- Be Polite: Use polite language such as “please” and “thank you.”
- Show Respect for Their Time: Acknowledge that they’re busy and that you appreciate their time.
- Avoid Sending Follow-Up Messages Too Soon: If they don’t respond right away, wait a few days before sending a polite follow-up.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my previous message and see if you had a chance to consider my proposal. Let me know if you’re available for a quick chat. I appreciate your time!”
8. Follow Up (But Don’t Be Pushy)
It’s normal not to get a response after your first LinkedIn message—people are busy. However, sending a thoughtful follow-up can significantly increase your chances of getting a reply. A well-timed follow-up shows persistence, but be careful not to send too many follow-up messages or come across as pushy.
When to Follow Up:
- Wait 3-5 Days: Give the person enough time to see your message and respond.
- Be Polite: Acknowledge that they might have missed your initial message or been too busy to reply.
- Restate Your Purpose: Briefly remind them why you’re reaching out and how you can add value.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up on my message from last week. I know you’re busy, but I’d love to hear your thoughts whenever you have a moment. Looking forward to connecting!”
Conclusion
Writing LinkedIn messages that get responses requires personalization, clarity, and a focus on building relationships. By tailoring your message to the recipient, keeping it concise, and offering clear value, you increase the likelihood of receiving a reply. Remember to be polite, patient, and persistent—LinkedIn is all about making meaningful professional connections that can lead to long-term opportunities.