How to create a compelling linkedIn message
It’s difficult to overestimate the power of LinkedIn when it comes to online networking. It is still by far the best online resource where you can connect with people from your industry, get more insights about your target organizations, gain valuable connections, join communities, learn industry trends and build your personal brand by generating professional content.
When you’re leveraging LinkedIn to elevate your career, rest assured that you're not alone. Whether you are looking to expand your professional network, pursuing a new opportunity or are simply looking for recommendations, you want to make sure your message gets the recepient.
As a Recruiter, I have sent over 25k connection requests over the years of my professional journey, and I have determined what makes your message get accepted. In order to write a compelling LinkedIn connection request that is effective and achieves your objectives, please utilize these simple tips.
Personalized message is a must
Sending a LinkedIn request without any message at all is a big no. It works the same way as with cold applications: quantity does not beat quality. People don’t like being treated like a number, plus, as a job seeker, the person you are trying to reach is probably either a recruiter or a hiring manager, and these people whose inboxes are already overwhelmed.
Personalizing the message in your LinkedIn invitations can mean the difference between acceptance and rejection when it comes to virtual networking.
Find something in common
I often say that the best thing you could do before sending that message is to actually LOOK at the profile of the person you are trying to reach. When reading their profile, try to find something that the two of you have in common. This can be work related or can be something from personal life. Think of the reasons of what actually brought you to their profile and don’t be afraid to shoot straight.
If you found no common things, you can compliment something that they wrote or shared, or point out their career progression.
Say why you are connecting
Keep in mind the reasons why you want this person in your network. There might be tons of reasons. It could be wanting to do business together, asking for advice or for an introduction, sharing common professional goals or interests, or having something specific that you can offer them. Don’t hesitate to include this into your message. LinkedIn isn’t a dating app, and people don’t expect you play guessing games.
Create a dialogue
Just like a good resume, your connection isn’t just about you, it’s also about someone you’re trying to reach. Engage the recipient by asking them questions or recommendations.
Avoid you-centric messages which might lower the chance that your request with be accepted.
At the end of your invitation, you could include some sort of call to action, which can be anything from asking for their opinion to asking them to follow your professional blog.
Keep it short and sweet
By sending a short yet concise message, you are showing that you respect the recipient’s time. Also, keep in mind, that for connection requests, the character limit is 300 characters, including spaces and all characters (symbols, letters, numbers, and even emojis).
Happy connecting! :)