Making that initial outreach on LinkedIn can feel daunting. You want to come across as friendly yet professional, direct yet nuanced. It’s not easy striking that delicate balance in a first message to a new connection. But fear not! With a bit of thought and preparation, you can craft an introductory LinkedIn message that makes a strong first impression.
Why the first message matters
Your initial outreach sets the tone for the relationship. A bad first message can immediately turn someone off and close doors before they’re even open. On the flip side, a thoughtful, personalized message makes a great first impression and paves the way for a productive connection.
Approaching your first message strategically and avoiding common pitfalls is key. Read on for tips on crafting an effective opener that will get your LinkedIn relationships off on the right foot.
Quick tips for an amazing first LinkedIn message
- Keep it short and to the point (a few concise paragraphs).
- Personalize with specifics about their background.
- Establish common ground and shared interests/experiences.
- Explain why you want to connect with them.
- Include a call to action with next steps.
How to start a LinkedIn message
A strong first LinkedIn message starts off on the right foot. You want to quickly establish who you are, why you’re reaching out, and set a friendly, authentic tone. Here are some proven openings to try:
1. Lead with a personalized introduction
“Hi [name], I saw on your profile that you work at [company] as a [position]. I’m [your name], an [your position] at [your company]. I’m excited to connect with fellow [industry] professionals like yourself.”
2. Establish a common interest or experience
“Hello [name]! I couldn’t help but notice that you [volunteer at X organization / graduated from X university / worked at X company]. I [share that same experience] and would love to connect.”
3. Compliment their work
“Hi [name]. I recently came across [an article you wrote / a presentation you gave / your project on XYZ] and was thoroughly impressed by your expertise in [topic]. I would enjoy discussing [this topic] further with you.”
4. Note someone who connected you
“Hi [name], [mutual connection] suggested I reach out and connect with you. I’m [your name], [your position] at [your company]. Based on [mutual connection’s] recommendation and our shared interest in [topic], I think there is great potential for collaboration.”
What to include in the body of a first LinkedIn message
The opening of your message makes a strong first impression. Next, you need to provide details in the body to further explain who you are and why you want to connect. Here are some key elements to include:
1. Provide background on yourself and your expertise
Give a short summary of your professional background and qualifications. Highlight experiences or skills that are most relevant to this connection.
2. Express shared interests and experiences
Note any common ground you share in terms of industry, interests, education, associations, location, etc. Finding alignment builds an instant rapport.
3. Explain why you want to connect
Articulate what makes you interested in connecting with this particular individual. Be clear on how you could mutually support each other’s professional goals and ambitions.
4. Suggest next steps for the relationship
Propose meeting for coffee, scheduling a call, or visiting each other’s workplaces. Offer options for continuing the relationship beyond an initial digital connection.
How to end a first LinkedIn message
Wrap up your first message with a professional yet friendly sign-off. Summarize the value in connecting while leaving the door open for future interactions. Some good options include:
1. Express enthusiasm
“I’m looking forward to connecting and exploring potential opportunities to collaborate. Speak soon!”
2. Share appreciation
“Thank you in advance for connecting. I really appreciate the chance to build our professional relationship.”
3. Extend an invitation
“I’d love to grab coffee and continue the conversation. Please feel free to reach out!”
Mistakes to avoid in an initial LinkedIn message
While there are many ways to craft an engaging first message, there are also some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using a generic template message instead of personalizing.
- Making it all about you instead of highlighting commonalities.
- Being pushy or aggressive with your call to action.
- Getting too sales-y or promoting yourself too hard.
- Asking for too much too soon before building a relationship.
First LinkedIn Message Templates
When crafting your first message, it often helps to start from a template to get your creative juices flowing. Feel free to customize these templates by adding personal details.
Template 1: The Quick Connect
Hi [name], I saw that we’re both members of [group/industry/school/etc.] and I wanted to connect! I’m [your name], and I currently work in [industry] at [company]. I’d love to stay in touch and learn more about your experience in the field.
Template 2: The Professional Intro
Hello [name], I hope this note finds you well! My name is [your name] and I am a [your position] at [company]. I recently came across [an article/post/project] you [wrote/did] on [topic] and was thoroughly impressed. Given our shared background in [industry], I think there could be great opportunity to collaborate. Would you be open to continuing the conversation over [coffee/phone/LinkedIn message]?
Template 3: The Common Interest
Hi [name]! I couldn’t help but notice we share an interest in [topic]. I [volunteer/write/work] in that area as well. I’m [your name], [your position] at [company]. I would enjoy connecting with fellow [topic] enthusiasts such as yourself. Looking forward to chatting more and exchanging ideas!
Template 4: The Warm Referral
Hello [name], [referring contact] suggested I reach out to connect. I’m [your name], [your position] at [company]. [Referring contact] spoke very highly of your work and mentioned we share an interest in [topic]. I’d love to connect and possibly explore ways we could collaborate. Hopefully we can continue the conversation soon!
Sample first LinkedIn messages
Seeing example first messages can provide inspiration as you craft your own outreach. Here are some real-life messages that strike the right balance of friendly and professional:
Establishing common ground
“Hi Jane! I see we both went to the University of Michigan – I actually grew up in Ann Arbor. I’d love to connect with a fellow Wolverine. I currently work in HR at XYZ Corporation. Hope to chat soon, go blue!”
Complimenting their work
“Hello! I recently read your article on digital marketing strategies and wanted to say how impressed I was by the insights you provided. I also work in marketing (currently at 123 Agency) and would really enjoy discussing the topic more, perhaps over coffee? Let me know if you’d be open to connecting!”
Expressing shared interests
“Hi there! I couldn’t help but notice you’re also an avid hiker based on your photos. I try to hike every weekend and am always looking for new trail recommendations. I’d love to connect with a fellow hiking enthusiast – maybe we could hit the trails together sometime! I’m Jane, a project manager at XYZ Corporation.”
Explaining why you want to connect
“Hello! Your work as a photographer really inspires me. I’m also a photographer hoping to grow my freelance business. My name is Jeff and I’d love to connect to learn more about your experiences in the industry. I’m sure we could share tips and advice to help each other progress in our careers. Looking forward to chatting more!”
Key takeaways for a great first LinkedIn message
Crafting that initial outreach doesn’t have to be painful. By following a few simple guidelines, you can create an effective first message:
- Personalize with specifics about their background and interests.
- Establish common experiences, associations, goals.
- Explain who you are and why you want to connect.
- Suggest meeting up or having a call to continue the relationship.
- Use a friendly yet professional tone.
Avoid generic outreach, self-promotion, or aggressive sales tactics. With a thoughtful, customized message, you can start your LinkedIn relationships off right.
Conclusion
Making the first move to connect on LinkedIn can seem nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be! With a strategic introductory message that puts your best foot forward, you can lay the groundwork for productive networking. Do your research, establish common ground, speak to shared interests, and suggest next steps for continuing the relationship. Avoid sounding robotic or salesy. Most importantly, tailor your message specifically to the individual. If you craft a sincere, personalized note, you will be on the right track to connect authentically and strengthen your professional network.
The initial message sets the tone for the relationship, so it’s worth devoting time to get it just right. Follow these tips and best practices, use the provided templates and examples for inspiration, and you’ll be ready to reach out with confidence. A thoughtful LinkedIn first message can open the door to game-changing connections. Be mindful, be personable, and get ready to make some valuable new contacts!
Happy networking!