Reaching out to someone you share a mutual connection with on LinkedIn can be a great way to expand your professional network. However, it’s important to approach these outreach messages thoughtfully and strategically. Here are some tips on how to effectively reach out to a mutual connection on LinkedIn.
Understand the value of mutual connections
A mutual connection on LinkedIn indicates that you and the other person likely share some commonality, such as an employer, school, group, or contact. This shared connection can give you some built-in credibility when reaching out, since you already have a link in your networks. Leverage this to your advantage by highlighting the mutual connection in your outreach message.
Do your research
Before reaching out, take some time to learn more about the person by reviewing their LinkedIn profile. Look for shared experiences, skills, or interests that you can reference in your message. This will help you craft a more personal, relevant outreach. You may also uncover ways you can help the other person, which will make them more inclined to respond.
Personalize the message
A generic outreach note is easy to ignore, so make sure your message is customized and thoughtful. Mention how you are connected, why you are interested in connecting, and try to relate it back to their experiences and interests. Share something unique about yourself and be clear on any ask or next steps. The more personalized your note, the better chance it has of standing out.
Keep it short and focused
LinkedIn messages have limited real estate, so don’t overload them with lots of text. Be concise and focused in your ask—whether you want to connect for general networking, explore collaborating, or make a specific ask like an informational interview. Get to the point quickly within a few sentences and paragraphs.
Focus on value
Think about how connecting could be valuable and mutually beneficial to both parties. Offer something insightful or helpful like relevant articles, advice based on your experience, or introductions to other contacts. Position the potential relationship as worthwhile for both sides. If you only ask for something without showing what’s in it for them, you are less likely to get a response.
Use the mutual connection strategically
Since you already know someone in common with this person, leverage that shared connection thoughtfully. You can mention them in a positive context like “Jane Doe suggested I reach out” or “I see you worked with John Smith, who I’ve collaborated with for years.” But be careful about putting them on the spot—don’t say they will make an introduction unless you’ve confirmed that.
Pay attention to timing
Reach out at a time when the person is likely available to respond. Early morning or end-of-day messages tend to be better timing. Also consider their time zone location. And avoid busy holiday times, Mondays/Fridays, or extended periods when someone may be out of office and unable to respond promptly.
Follow up if needed
If you don’t hear back within a week, consider a brief, polite follow-up message. Reiterate your interest in connecting, and offer flexibility in terms of timing and mode (phone, email, etc). But don’t overdo follow-ups—two attempts is usually sufficient before moving on.
Connect before asking for something
It’s usually better to connect first before asking for something substantial like an informational interview or job leads. Take the time to form a relationship and exchange value before making specific asks. You are more likely to get a positive response after building some initial rapport.
Watch your tone
Mind your tone when reaching out over message. Since there are no vocal or visual cues, your words alone need to convey a tone that is positive, polite, and personable. Don’t come across as aggressive with demands or inconsiderate of their time. Proofread to make sure your message is clear, gracious, and professional.
Follow up after connecting
After hopefully getting a positive response and connecting, follow up again to cement the relationship. Thank them for connecting, and follow through on any offers made or next steps discussed. Scheduling time to meet or talk is an effective way to take the budding relationship to the next level.
Don’t be discouraged by no response
Lack of response happens, so don’t take it personally. They may be too busy, inundated with messages, or just not interested at this time. Try other contacts and networking opportunities. Continuing expanding your professionally network organically over time.
Avoid coming across as needy or salesy
Resist the urge to spray out mass connection requests or make demands of new contacts. This can come across as desperate or self-serving. Exercise patience and engage in respectful relationship-building. Let things progress naturally instead of pushing hard on an agenda.
Consider using InMail
If reaching out via standard LinkedIn messaging, your note may get lost or overlooked amongst other messages. Using LinkedIn InMail can help get your outreach directly in front of someone. But still personalize your InMail and use it judiciously—don’t spam people.
Leverage shared Groups
If you and your desired contact are both members of the same LinkedIn Groups, you have another “in” to use when reaching out. Mention your shared Group(s) and use this common interest as an entry point to develop your relationship.
Pool network resources
Explore whether others in your network might have connections that can facilitate a warmer outreach. Getting an introduction through a shared, trusted contact is preferable to a “cold call” style outreach.
Focus on giving, not just getting
Look for ways to add value, give advice, provide resources, or make connections before expecting something in return like a job lead or introduction. This establishes you as a generous connector who doesn’t just take value.
Be transparent and sincere
Be clear and upfront about your motives and intentions when reaching out. Avoid giving the impression you disingenuously want to “pick their brain” when really you want a job lead. State your goals directly while also conveying genuine interest.
Link to a current discussion
If they recently posted something on LinkedIn or social media, connect your outreach back to that content. Commenting shows you read their posts, and linking to something timely and relevant gives you a natural conversation starter.
Share an article or piece of content
Including an interesting article or piece of content relevant to their interests establishes that you did research on them and invested time in crafting the message.
Be patient and persistent
Quality relationship-building takes sustained time and effort. Don’t expect an immediate response. Nurture contacts consistently over the long-term.
With some thoughtfulness, personalization, and strategic follow-ups, you can effectively leverage mutual connections on LinkedIn to expand your professional network. Establish rapport, convey shared interests, and focus on value for both people. With this mindset, you’re well on your way to successfully reaching out.