No matter if you’re a senior-level AE or an early-stage founder bootstrapping your brand, mastering the art of sending LinkedIn connection messages is important. That’s because, in 2023, LinkedIn has become one of the best places to find quality leads. Compared to cold calling or email marketing, LinkedIn has a high reply rate, with 21% of leads being open to communicating with salespeople.
However, there’s an art to creating a LinkedIn connection message. You can’t just drop them a link to your Calendly and hope they schedule a demo (well, you can, but good luck getting a reply)! Instead, you need to tailor the message to your prospects, drawing them into having a conversation with you. Because that’s all sales really are, right? Conversations.
Key Takeaways:
Craft personalized LinkedIn connection messages to increase reply rates and generate quality leads, moving beyond generic requests.
Always include a clear call to action in your message, whether it's to schedule a call, book a demo, or simply continue the conversation.
When sending a LinkedIn connection request, start with the prospect's name and clearly state how you know them or what you have in common to build rapport.
You can withdraw pending LinkedIn connection requests from the "My Network" tab if the recipient is inactive, allowing you to resend later.
Leverage various LinkedIn connection message examples (e.g., shared interests, value proposition, mutual connections) to tailor your approach and improve acceptance rates.
Why Your LinkedIn Connection Message Actually Matters
Forget about just hitting 'connect.' Your LinkedIn connection message isn't some polite formality; it's your crucial first shot at getting a reply. Unlike endless cold calls or spamming inboxes, LinkedIn often sees a far better response rate—we're talking about 21% of leads actually open to chatting with sales pros here. So, why is crafting that perfect message such a big deal?
Unlocks Real Leads: This isn't just about beefing up your network numbers. A smart, well-placed message directly opens the door to conversations with the high-quality prospects and decision-makers you're actually targeting.
Boosts Your Reply Rate: A lazy, generic note gets scrolled past. Your personalized message is what makes you stand out, proving you've done your homework and giving them a reason to hit 'reply.'
Builds Genuine Rapport: This message is your virtual handshake. It sets the tone, showing you're about authentic connection and not just pushing a product.
Kicks Off the Sales Chat: No one's buying from your first message. But a killer one smoothly moves them toward a deeper conversation—and that's what sales is all about, right? Just talking.
You can't just drop them a link to your Calendly and cross your fingers (seriously, good luck with that approach). You need to tailor that message, grabbing your prospect's attention and pulling them into a conversation with you.
How to Write a LinkedIn Connection Request That Gets Accepted
We’ve got a step-by-step process to write a LinkedIn connection request that gets accepted (and maybe even furthers the conversation).
But, before you send the message, you'll need to know who to target on LinkedIn. Learn how to use Boolean search on LinkedIn to find qualified leads.
Step 1: The Introduction
Dale Carnegie, the author of “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” famously said that there’s no sweeter sound in any language than the sound of our own names. As human beings, we instinctively react positively when someone uses our name, which is why it’s a good idea to begin your message with your prospect’s name.
You can start with Dear [Name], Hi [Name], or even Hello [Name]. It doesn’t matter as long as you’re using their name and keeping it professional.
Step 2: Introduce the Connection
Next up, you’ll need to summarize how you know the person you’re reaching out to. If you met them at an event or were referred to them by a friend, this is where you should mention it. Don‘t worry if you found them through a search on LinkedIn, though. Just mention what you have in common (industry, location, job title, company, interests) and why it would be good to connect.
Don’t feel like this needs to be as professional as an email to your department head. While we don’t recommend dropping straight-up slang, it’s a good idea to keep your LinkedIn connection request casual and conversational. Additionally, if your end goal is to sell a product or book a demo, you might want to touch on your value proposition. Remember to keep it conversational and fun to read. Here’s an example:
I see that we’re both Marketing Managers in the Seattle area (uh oh, looks like I’ve got competition). Jokes aside, it would be great if we could connect to bounce some ideas off of each other in the future.
Step 4: End on a Call To Action:
More often than not, you should end your messages with a call to action. By just including a call to action, the chances of your message receiving a reply are higher. For example, you could ask a potential contact to book a call with you or schedule a demo. We’ve included a sample of a CTA below.
I’d love to learn how you’re currently prospecting and how that’s working. I’m avalibale on [Day] at [Time] if you’re around to have a quick chat. You can call me at: [Contact details].
11 LinkedIn Connection Request Templates
Now, let’s share some of the best LinkedIn messages for connecting that we have. And yes, you can totally use these as connection request templates. Note: These LinkedIn connection messages are real prospecting messages that we’ve tested—and they receive replies!
The Same Interests Message
Hi {first_name},
Saw you also followed NPR’s page on LinkedIn – looks like we have that in common.
If you’re ever looking to talk some radio (or want some show recomendations), you know where to find me.
Let’s connect,
{Your name}
The Value Proposition Message
Hey {first_name},
Are you interested in increasing your guaranteed income at retirement by 30%?
If so, I’ve got a free ebook attached to my profile that’s just for you.
Shoot me a message if you have any questions,
{Your name}
The Same Product Message
Hi {first_name},
I see we’re both using SEMrush. What an awesome tool!
I’ve got a few questions about how you’re using SEMrush to build your brand – can I send you a few questions?
Let me know if that's okay,
{Your name}
The Comment Message
Heyo {first_name},
I saw your comment on my post about the Best LinkedIn Prospecting Strategies.
Would love to connect so I can send you a PDF on the topic 🙂
{Your name}
The Company Pitch Message
Hi {first_name},
You popped up in my feed and I was really excited about what you’re working on.
Actually, what you’re working on at {Company name} reminds me of what I did for {client name}.
We specialize in {pitch your company}. If you ever want to learn more, or connect and bounce ideas off each other, then let’s connect.
{Your name}
Job Search Message To Recruiters
Hello {first name},
I see that you’re a recruiter with {company name}.
To get right to the point, I’ved specialized in {occupation} for {number} years. Right now, though, I’m looking for the next opportunity.
I was hoping you might have some job openings that fit with my skillset. If so, give me at call at {contact number}, or shoot me a message here.
Collaboration Request Template
Hi {first name},
Not to say I’m a fangirl, but I’ve been following you for awhile and love the insights you share!
Specifically I’ve started using {method they’ve shared}, and seen {note results}.
On my own journey to launching a business, I was wondering if you’d be avaliable to talk about a future collaboration. I’d be hapy to talk about how you’ve helped me grow my business.
Thanks again.
{Your name}
Event Attendee Follow-Up
Hey {First name},
It was great talking and getting to know you at {Event name}.
What you do at {Current company} really connected with me and I think there’s a great opportunity for us to work and learn from one another.
I’d love to stay in touch!
Past Collegue Connection Message
Hello {First name},
I hope you still remember you!
We worked together at {Company} back in {Year}.
I’d love to catch up over a coffee either on Zoom or in {location} if you’re still around!
Looking forward to speaking soon!
Someone in the Same LinkedIn Group
Dear {First name},
I saw that we’re both members of the {Group name} LinkedIn Group.
The blog post you shared a week or two ago about {topic of blog post} was a great read and full of a ton of insights. I’d love to connect and share another article that I’ve found helpful!
Best,
{Your name}
An Alumni From the Same School
Dear {First name},
I see that you graduated from my current university, {School name}—let’s go Vols!
I’m majoring in {Major} and I’d love to learn about your education stacks up in the real world. I’d love to hear about your role at {Company name}!
Thanks so much,
{Your name}
P.S. Did you ever take classes with {Professors Name}? He’s the best!
How To Withdraw a Pending Connection Message
To withdraw a pending connection, first navigate to the “My Network” tab. From there, click on the “Manage” button in the top right corner of the tab.
Now, you’ll find yourself on the manage connections page. You should see two options on the top: recieved and sent. Click sent to see the connection requests that are still pending. From there, you can choose which invitations you’d like to withdraw by clicking the withdraw button on the right side of the page.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sending LinkedIn Connection Messages
To ensure your LinkedIn connection requests get accepted and lead to real conversations, avoid these all too common mistakes:
Generic Messages: The default "I'd like to add you to your professional network" message is invisible. Always personalize your LinkedIn connection message.
Too Salesy, Too Soon: Your first LinkedIn connection message isn't a sales pitch. Focus on building rapport, not immediately asking for a demo or call.
No Clear "Why": Prospects need to know why you're connecting. State your intention, whether it's a shared interest, mutual connection, or specific value.
Typos & Errors: Proofread! Small mistakes undermine your professionalism and credibility.
Lack of Research: Don't send messages blindly. A little research into their profile or recent activity goes a long way in crafting an effective LinkedIn connection message.
Neglecting Your Own Profile: Prospects will check your profile. Make sure it's complete, professional, and reflects well on you before you send out LinkedIn connection requests.
Of course, there are plenty of other mistakes to avoid when it comes to LinkedIn lead generation.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make connections on LinkedIn, the next step is for you to go out there and get started. Keep an eye on what works and what doesn’t, and don’t be afraid to amend your approach if it doesn’t seem to be working. Just be respectful to others.
In case you are short on time and keep very busy, you can leverage automation software like We-Connect. It helps you automate your connections, followers, and messages on LinkedIn. Try our demo for 14 days risk-free.
