There is a limit of 300 characters for LinkedIn connection request messages. However, the majority of the connection request messages are: “I’d like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.”
This is not just boring but also an unpleasant way to connect with a prospective lead. A message in a conversational tone, emphasizing the “You” factor instead of “I” is going to take you places. Unfortunately, businesses fail to understand the potential these 300 characters hold. And prefer using 48 characters instead, that leaves no possible chance of engagement.
The connection request messages depict the way your business doing networking on LinkedIn. It is the first impression you leave on your target lead. Visiting your LinkedIn profile is the second impression, where the content must be optimized with meticulously crafted details.
While providing a golden opportunity to break the ice, many businesses fail to write attractive LinkedIn connection request messages. Even a genuinely optimized LinkedIn profile cannot save you as these messages are the first impression that can prove worthy of converting leads into a customer. Writing a generic and irrelevant message for a connection request automatically lowers the chances of getting it accepted.
Why the Hassle of Writing LinkedIn Connection Request Messages?
It is always tempting to send a new connection request without adding a touch of personalization. However, adding a note with it will increase the chance of it getting accepted. Customization will always help businesses in starting meaningful conversations and curate memorable first impressions.
When you are not adding a touch of personalization, LinkedIn will automatically send a tedious message of “I’d like to join your network”. For a business, this is one of the biggest missed opportunities to break the ice and enhance the chance of engagement. When there is no context about why you are sending a connection request, the chances of getting it approved are minimal.
Since the limit is only 300 characters, utilize the power of the platform smartly. Send a brief and to-the-point message to initiate conversation. Craft a beautiful message that can keep them hooked from the first line.
The Dos and the Don’ts for Connection Request Messages
For a perfect LinkedIn connection request message, there are some dos and don’ts that you must keep in your mind. If you will avoid the don’ts then there are higher chances of getting connection requests accepted. Also, don’t try to be over-smart. Your connection request can get rejected and the person may end up clicking “I don’t know this person”. This will flag your LinkedIn account as suspicious.
The Dos
- Personalize the connection request messages to show why you are interested to get connected.
- Try writing a compelling and catchy copy for attention.
- Add a call-to-action or a hook to keep the conversation going.
- Introduce yourself only if there is any room for it.
- Don’t forget to be polite and professional.
The Don’ts
- Never send a generic or a blank LinkedIn connection request message.
- Avoid adding personal references or giving compliments that are not related to the business.
- Don’t talk about yourself only and the experiences you have.
- Just don’t jump in selling yourself.
- Never send irrelevant connection request messages. Know your target market and their interest before approaching.
Guide on How to Write Attractive LinkedIn Connection Request Messages
Here are top LinkedIn connection request message examples that can help in boosting your reach and augment the chance of getting the connection request accepted.
Template 1: Someone you already met before in a social event
Hi [first name],
It was amazing meeting you at [event] and learning about your company. The conversation on [related topic] was pretty interesting and knowledgeable. I am looking forward to knowing more about you and your exciting role.
Talk soon!
[Your first name]
Template 2: Someone whose work admires you
Hi [first name],
I recently read your LinkedIn article on [topic name]. Your thoughts on [mention key takeaways from the article] are amazing and I totally agree with you. Being new to this [city name], I’d love to keep in touch with you and learn more about your work and ideas.
Thanks,
[Your first name]
Template 3: Someone in the same LinkedIn group
Hi [first name],
I am also in the group [group name] where I got the chance to read your amazing post on [topic of the post]. The piece you shared is thought-provoking and inspiring for me. I’d love to get in touch with you and learn more about your thoughts and work.
Best,
[Your first name]
Template 4: A recruiter or an employer
Hi [first name],
I just came across your LinkedIn profile and saw your work for [company]. Being [industry name] professional, I have [x] years of experience. If you get a chance, I’d love to chat and see if you have any suitable opportunity for a person with my background.
Thanks in advance,
[Your first name]
Template 5: Connecting with second-degree connections
Hi [first name],
I noticed we are both connected to [mutual connection name] at [company name]. [Mutual connection name] and I collaborated on a project where [he/she] spoke highly of you. I’d like to add you to my professional network so that we can support each other in the future.
Looking forward to connecting,
[Your first name]
Bottom Line
Networking sites like LinkedIn offer tremendous opportunities to generate leads. But without engaging with any prospective lead it is impossible to get a lead. LinkedIn lead generation is a tool that can offer brilliant opportunities for your business.
This all can start with a perfect LinkedIn connection request message. If you fail in sending an attractive and compelling copy, your potential lead may never get back to you. Attract them by praising their abilities and how innovative they are. It is not flattering them, instead of making an opportunity for the future of your business.
You can also use LinkedIn automation tools to automate messaging by following these templates.
