LinkedIn is an incredible platform for B2B prospecting, but it requires a strategic approach. In this article, we will provide you with 12 LinkedIn connection message templates tailored to your specific use cases. Get ready to elevate your LinkedIn outreach!

Have you ever received a dull, generic, and uninspiring message? Just like everyone else. Did it catch your attention? Probably not. So, what’s the key? Personalization!

Our aim is to make your prospecting efforts truly remarkable.

12 LinkedIn connection message templates

We will provide you with concrete examples tailored to your specific use cases, explaining why they are effective and how to implement them. While we recommend using automation software available in the market, for this demonstration, we will be using Leadsourcing.

What should you write in a LinkedIn connection request?

When sending a connection request on a professional network like LinkedIn, the reasons can vary, such as:

 

• • Generating leads on LinkedIn.

• • Building business connections on LinkedIn.

• • Seeking job opportunities.

• • Recruiting potential candidates.

The content of your message will largely depend on the specific situation you are in. To determine the most effective approach, it is recommended to experiment with different LinkedIn messages across various scenarios. Let’s explore some examples now.

#1 LinkedIn outreach template: Connection request to a member of a LinkedIn group

If the person you want to connect with is active on a LinkedIn group, has posted something, or commented on a post, you can use the following template for your connection request.

Copy/paste template

Hello {{firstname}}, Your activity on the {{LinkedIn group}} group has piqued my interest. I found your intervention on {{firstname}} post very relevant. We could certainly exchange on {{common topic}} in the future.

Why does it work?

By sending a message like this, you demonstrate:

 

• • Your interest in the person’s field of work.

• • Your appreciation for a specific post or comment they made on LinkedIn.

• • Your common membership in the same group, indicating shared interests.

When you establish a common topic and highlight something specific about the person, you greatly increase your chances of being accepted.

#2 LinkedIn outreach template: Humor

If you have a knack for puns or enjoy making great jokes, then this connection request template is perfect for you.

Copy and paste template

Hi John, I saw that you work with animals and losing your feline friend can be a cat-astrophe. I’d love for you to join my network to talk about this industry I’m in too.

Why does it work?

It works because:

 

• • Your approach is unconventional and stands out from the typical connection requests.

• • Even if your target doesn’t appreciate the humor, you still leave a lasting impression by being original.

• • In fact, I personally accept anyone who sends me a message like this (yes, it’s a genuine reason).

#3 LinkedIn message examples: Request a connection to expand your network.

This approach is particularly useful when you are new to LinkedIn and haven’t established a strong presence or prospecting strategy yet. If your main objective is to increase visibility for your posts and expand your network, you can utilize this prospecting message to achieve those goals and grow your network.

Copy and paste template

Hello Mickael, I’m new to LinkedIn and I see that we have some things in common like {{commontopic}}. So I would like to join your network , what do you say?

Why does it work?

Feel free to utilize this template as it effectively communicates the following to the person:

 

• • You have a genuine interest in their work or expertise.

• • Your intention is not to sell a product or service, but rather to expand your network and connect with like-minded professionals.

#4 LinkedIn alumni or teacher relationship message template

You can certainly connect with people you know from school (this also applies to former colleagues).

Copy and paste template

Hello John, I see you’re thriving in your new job and that my subject matter didn’t give you a cold sweat! What do you say we add each other to discuss your activity and reminisce about the school years?

Why does it work?

The reasons why this type of invitation is effective are:

 

• • Familiarity with the person increases the likelihood of being accepted into their network.

• • Reconnecting with former students or trainers who have influenced your career or sparked a passion is appealing.

• • The personalized approach, based on specific targeting, enhances the effectiveness of this model.

#5 LinkedIn connect message to recruiter

As a recruiter, it’s important not to forget that candidates have choices too. If you want to attract that exceptional talent, you must know how to approach them with a connection request.

Copy and paste template

Hello {{firstname}}, I see that you are looking for a job in the {{sectorsought}} field. Our company {{companyname}} is looking for {{jobname}}. If you are interested, we can discuss this in a future interview.

Why does it work?

This approach is effective because:

 

• • By reaching out directly to a candidate, you demonstrate your genuine interest in them (as evidenced by your visit to their LinkedIn profile).

• • You have taken the time to understand their background and skills.

• • Your connection request is highly personalized, showing that you have considered their unique qualifications and potential fit for your organization.

#6 LinkedIn Connection Request: Getting in Touch with a Client

If you have previously collaborated with someone and wish to be considered for future projects, this is the perfect opportunity to make that connection.

Copy and paste template

Hello Chole,
I was delighted to be able to contribute to the {{projectname}} project and to see it take a nice growth. I would like to add you to see its progress and why not collaborate again on a new project. Looking forward to exchanging.

Why does it work?

When you have had a positive working relationship with a client, it is highly recommended to connect with them on LinkedIn. They are likely to accept your invitation because:

 

• • They are familiar with your previous collaboration and know you.

• • Connecting on LinkedIn makes it convenient for them to reach out to you for future projects.

• • The existing trust established between you increases the likelihood of acceptance.

#7 LinkedIn Teaser Message: Add someone you met at an event to your network

When writing an invitation note to someone on LinkedIn whom you have met at an event, your message serves as an opportunity to strengthen the connection.

Copy and paste template

Hello Benny,
I was delighted to meet you at the climate conference on {{date}}. I particularly enjoyed your presentation. I was really inspired by our exchange on human issues. Maybe we can exchange more on the subject on LinkedIn?

Why does it work?

This message template is highly effective for several reasons:

 

• • Ultra-personalized approach: The message is tailored specifically to the recipient, showcasing your genuine interest in them and their activities.

• • Common interests: By highlighting shared interests, you demonstrate that you have taken the time to learn about their passions and align with their professional pursuits.

• • Previous meeting: If you have met the person before at an event, it shows that you remember the encounter and value the connection made. This enhances the likelihood of acceptance.

• • Engaging topic: Referring to a specific date or a topic of interest that the recipient is passionate about engages them and creates a sense of flattery, further encouraging them to connect with you.

Overall, this message template establishes a strong foundation for building meaningful connections on LinkedIn.

#8 LinkedIn Connection Template: Job Application

Sending job applications through LinkedIn is a viable option if executed correctly.

Copy and paste template

Mr/Ms {{lastname}},
I’ve been reading about your {{companyname}} and I see that you are looking for a Data Analyst. Perhaps we could consider a discussion around your recruitment? I would greatly appreciate you joining my network. I look forward to hearing from you.

Why does it work?

This type of connection request message is effective because:

 

• • Demonstrates interest in the company: By expressing your interest in the company, you show that you have done some research and are genuinely interested in their organization and what they do.

• • Personalized approach: Taking the time to visit the recruiter’s LinkedIn profile and understanding their role demonstrates your attention to detail and genuine effort in reaching out to them directly.

• • Direct communication: By directly reaching out to the recruiter, you bypass any potential communication barriers and can establish a more personal connection. This direct approach can be appreciated and may increase your chances of being noticed.

• • Building a connection first: Instead of immediately sharing your resume or cover letter, focus on building a connection and understanding the company’s needs. Engage in a meaningful conversation before providing additional documents.

By following these guidelines, you can create a connection request message that captures the recruiter’s attention and increases your chances of establishing a meaningful dialogue.

#9 LinkedIn Connection: You share a mutual connection

Connecting with someone becomes easier when you have a mutual connection, and it’s not as complicated as rocket science . Here is a LinkedIn connection message template you can use when you share a relationship with the intended recipient:

Copy/paste template

Hello Michelle,
I see you knew Carl. We are in the same industry and have worked together many times. I see that you also work in the same field. We could exchange on this topic, what do you think?

Why does it work?

This approach is effective for several reasons:

 

• • You leverage a mutual connection: By mentioning the person who you both know, you establish a sense of familiarity and trust right from the start.

• • You demonstrate genuine interest: By referencing the person’s field of activity or expertise, you show that you have taken the time to learn about their work, which can spark their interest and make them more inclined to connect.

• • It provides reassurance: Adding a new connection through someone you both know acts as a form of social proof. It reassures the recipient that you are a credible and trustworthy individual, making them more likely to accept your invitation.

By incorporating these elements into your connection request, you increase the likelihood of building meaningful connections and expanding your professional network on LinkedIn.

#10 LinkedIn Outreach Message: Include the author of an article or post in your outreach message.

When you send a connection request on LinkedIn, your ultimate goal is to have the recipient accept your invitation. However, you may encounter individuals who are skilled in crafting compelling LinkedIn articles and posts.

Copy/paste template

Hi {{firstsname}},
I was lucky enough to come across one of your articles and found it fascinating and very inspiring! I do have a question regarding the {{subjecttheme}} though. I’d love to have you join my network so I can get a better grasp on this. Hope to see you soon.

Why does it work?

This template is highly effective because:

 

• • You demonstrate genuine interest in their work, particularly their LinkedIn post.

• • You establish a clear common ground between both parties.

• • By asking a question, you display your engagement and curiosity in the author’s perspective.

• • This approach is an excellent way to initiate further conversation with an enthusiastic individual and establish a connection effortlessly.

#11 LinkedIn Networking Messages: Contacting a prospect who has expressed interest in your product or service

It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with a potential lead when they ask you a question in the comments of your LinkedIn post about the product or service you’re selling. Here’s how you can approach it:

Copy/paste template

Hello {{firstname}},
I noticed your interest in my last post. Your question seems very relevant to me and I would like to discuss it with you, if that is ok. I would like you to join my network for this.

Why does it work?

 

• • By engaging in a conversation with your prospect about their query, they are more likely to accept your connection request as they are interested in getting an answer to their question.

• • This approach not only helps you understand your target audience better but also demonstrates your genuine interest in addressing their specific concerns.

#12 LinkedIn connect request: The partnership

To effectively approach a potential partner, your message should be clear and compelling, enticing them to collaborate with you.

Copy/paste template

Hello Johnny,
I am very impressed by your expertise in tech field. You talk about it with a lot of pedagogy. I have actually followed some of your tutorials and my growth is really taking off. I would like to talk to you about a project that might interest you. Why don’t you join my network?

Why does it work?

This approach is effective because:

 

• • It demonstrates genuine interest in the individual and their work.

• • By mentioning that you have tried and tested their advice, it sparks curiosity and grabs their attention.

• • Even if they are not interested in collaborating, they may accept your request to receive feedback on their tips, creating an opportunity for further engagement.

How do you make a connection request?

You may have noticed that our templates are relatively short. Our aim is to capture the reader’s attention within the first few lines of the conversation with the target. But first, let’s talk about how to invite someone on LinkedIn. We’ll guide you through the simple tutorial below:

 

1. 1. Log in to the platform.

1. 1. If you’re searching for a specific job title or person, enter your keywords in the search bar.

 

1. 1. Click on “Connect.”

1. 1. You will be given the option to include an invitation note or send the connection request without one.

1. 1. Consider using automation software to streamline the process of sending a large number of connection requests on LinkedIn.

With or without a note in your LinkedIn connection message?

When discussing this topic, it’s because it frequently arises. Referring to the statistics from our LinkedIn campaigns with Leadsourcing, out of 2000 invitations, we observed the following acceptance rates:

 

• • Empty note: 38% acceptance.

• • Non-personalized note: 36% acceptance.

• • Personalized note: 33% acceptance.

• • Complete note without a link: 32% acceptance.

• • Full note with a link: 26% acceptance.

However, it’s important to understand that these are statistical realities. You should consider the bigger picture. Some key factors to consider are:

 

• • Did you target the right audience?

• • Did you segment your audience effectively?

• • Did you engage your target from the first lines of your message?

If you answered “no” to these questions, there’s a higher chance that your invitation will not be accepted. In such cases, sending invitations without a note might be preferable. On the other hand, if you have successfully segmented your audience and managed to captivate them from the outset, it’s advisable to include a note in your invitations. To determine what works best for you, conduct A/B testing and experimentation.

If you notice a higher acceptance rate when you add a personalized touch, then you are moving in the right direction.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of this article, we have provided you with various message templates to connect with others and enhance your response rate. As a reminder, according to our study, it may be better not to include a note when sending a connection request…

In theory. The reason behind this is that poor copywriting and a lack of understanding of your target audience are more likely to result in rejection. If you still wish to send a message to your prospect, one approach is to initially send an invitation without any notes and then follow up with a message where you can discuss your product, service, a relevant topic, or any other important aspect. Remember to personalize your messages.

Throughout this article, we have explored how to send connection messages using automation software, such as the well-known Leadsourcing. We covered various scenarios, including:

 

1. 1. Sending a connection request to someone who belongs to the same group as you.

1. 1. Using humor as an approach.

1. 1. Expanding your network.

1. 1. Connecting with former students or teachers.

1. 1. Approaching prospects as a recruiter.

1. 1. Adding clients to your network.

1. 1. Connecting with someone you met at an event.

1. 1. Applying for a job.

1. 1. Leveraging mutual connections.

1. 1. Reaching out to authors of articles or posts.

1. 1. Connecting with prospects.

1. Exploring potential partnership opportunities.