Making new connections is an integral part of using LinkedIn effectively. However, once you’ve connected with someone new, should you reach out with an initial message? There are good arguments on both sides of this question.
On the one hand, messaging new connections can seem intrusive or salesy, especially if you immediately pitch your products or services. The connection request alone can come across as solicitation. Some people may view an unprompted message as overstepping.
However, a thoughtful, personalized message can also make a great first impression. It’s a chance to give your connection context about who you are and why you wanted to connect. When done properly, messaging a new connection builds rapport and lays the foundation for an ongoing relationship.
When is it appropriate to message new LinkedIn connections?
Assuming you have a valid, professional reason for connecting in the first place, here are some appropriate times to consider sending an introductory message:
- You have a specific opportunity, job, project, or other tangible reason for connecting. A message allows you to explain the opportunity or your interest.
- The person connected back after you sent the initial request. A message reciprocates the gesture and lets you formally say hello.
- You have a shared connection, experience, or interest. A message allows you to establish common ground.
- You want to introduce yourself after meeting someone in person. This continues the conversation.
- You wish to network within an industry or company. A message sets the tone for that relationship.
- You seek to establish a mentorship or want career advice. This gives context about your goals.
The key is having a purpose beyond just connecting. A message allows you to articulate your rationale for establishing the relationship.
How long should your message be?
Brevity is key. You want to be respectful of the recipient’s time. As a rule of thumb, your message should be:
- 3-5 sentences
- 50-100 words
- Consumable within 30 seconds
Long-winded introductions are counterproductive. Get to the point quickly and concisely. If a longer dialogue makes sense, you can always continue the conversation in subsequent messages once rapport is established.
What should you include in a new connection message?
Tailor the message to your specific purpose, but some elements to consider including are:
- A warm, professional greeting by name
- Quick self-introduction of who you are and your role
- Explanation of why you wanted to connect
- Common ground you share like connections, experiences, interests
- Request or opportunity you want to discuss (if relevant)
Personalize the message based on the recipient’s profile. Demonstrate you took the time to understand who they are and why networking would be mutually beneficial.
What should you avoid in new connection messages?
While you want to get your point across, take care not to overstep professional boundaries. Avoid:
- Formal sales pitches
- Requests for jobs or favors
- Controversial topics
- Overly familiar language
- Sharing too much unsolicited personal information
Also, don’t make demands on the recipient’s time. For example, don’t insist they set up a phone call or meeting right away. Keep the initial message conversational, allowing the recipient to respond if and when they have time.
Should you send the exact same message to all new connections?
While you can develop standard language to incorporate for efficiency, resist the temptation to copy-paste identical messages to every new connection. This comes across as spammy, lazy, and disingenuous.
Take a few extra minutes to customize the message to the individual. Mention their role, company, interests, or credentials. Ask about specific common connections. Include any personal facts you may have in common.
A bit of personalization and context goes a long way in making a new connection feel special, not just part of a mass outreach campaign.
Is there a best time to message new connections?
Aim to message new connections as soon as reasonably possible upon connecting. Capitalize on the initial excitement of establishing the relationship while your name is still fresh in their mind.
That said, avoid messaging in the evening or during weekends/holidays unless you know the recipient’s availability. Most LinkedIn communication happens during business hours.
Additionally, don’t message someone as soon as the connection is accepted. Give them time to digest the request before reaching out. Waiting at least a few hours, or even a full business day, ensures you don’t come across as overeager.
Should you follow up if the recipient doesn’t respond?
As with any professional communication, follow common sense etiquette. One unanswered message is normal. But repeatedly messaging someone who doesn’t respond comes across as aggressive.
If someone does not reply the first time, it’s often best to wait and see if they engage with any of your future posts or content. That cues they are open to some communication. You can also look for opportunities to naturally keep your name visible to them through LinkedIn activity.
However, avoid directly messaging again unless you have a time-sensitive request or they explicitly ask you to follow up. Be respectful if the recipient chooses not to engage.
Are there any alternatives to direct messages?
For recipients you suspect may not appreciate unsolicited messages, consider more passive, low-pressure alternatives to introduce yourself like:
- Commenting on their posts and content
- Liking and resharing their updates
- Mentioning them or their company in relevant posts
- Joining their LinkedIn groups
This allows you to start interacting in their social feed as a familiar name. Once there is some established awareness, a direct message may feel like a natural next step.
How do you message connections on mobile?
The process for messaging new connections on mobile devices is straightforward:
- Open the LinkedIn app and tap “My Network” at the bottom
- Go to the “Connections” tab and find the desired connection
- Tap on their name to open their profile
- Tap the “More” icon in the upper right
- Select “Send message” and compose your introductory note
You can also initiate messages directly from notification emails or connection invitations on mobile as well.
Can you customize connection invitation messages?
When sending connection invitations, LinkedIn allows you to customize the autogenerated message accompanying the request. Many people simply accept the default language.
However, taking a moment to write a unique connection invitation makes a better impression. You can briefly state who you are, reference common connections, and explain why you’d like to connect.
This ensures your request doesn’t feel “cold” to the recipient. It also gives them context if they choose to accept and message you back.
What are best practices for messaging?
To ensure messaging new connections is well-received:
- Be selective about who you message and why
- Craft a concise, personalized introductory note
- Provide relevant context about yourself and the purpose of connecting
- Suggest but don’t demand further discussion
- Respect if the recipient doesn’t respond
- Remain patient and don’t over-message
With these simple guidelines, messaging new connections on LinkedIn can be an effective way to turn cold contacts into warm professional relationships.