How to Write a LinkedIn Connection Request Message (Templates That Get Accepted)

LinkedIn limits connection request notes to 300 characters. Most people either leave the field blank or write something so generic it gets ignored anyway. A short, specific message doubles your acceptance rate, but only if it gives the recipient a reason that has nothing to do with what you want from them.

Why most connection requests get ignored

The most common notes are easy to spot: "I'd love to connect and expand my network", "I came across your profile and think we could collaborate", and the blank request with no message at all. These get ignored for the same reason cold emails with no subject line do. The recipient has no idea who you are or why you are reaching out, and there is no obvious reason to accept.

The principle that actually works: make the first sentence about them, not about you. Reference something specific, a post they wrote, the company they work for, a project they are involved in. Vague flattery is not specific. "I really admire your career" is not specific. "I noticed you moved into product leadership at a Series B last year, I am targeting similar roles" is specific.

Templates by scenario

The following are structured around the most common situations. Each fits within 300 characters. Adapt the specifics to your own situation, the role, the company, the shared context.

Connecting with a recruiter

"Hi [Name], I am targeting [role type] roles in [sector/location] and noticed you place in this space. Happy to connect in case something relevant comes up."

Keep it short. Recruiters receive dozens of requests. This works because it tells them what you do and what you are looking for in two sentences, with no ask beyond connecting.

Connecting with a hiring manager before applying

"Hi [Name], I am applying for the [job title] role at [Company] and noticed you lead that team. Wanted to connect before submitting, happy to chat if it would be useful."

Transparency here is a strength. Telling them you have seen the job signals confidence and gives them a concrete reason to accept the request.

Connecting after seeing someone's post

"Hi [Name], your post on [topic] caught my attention, particularly the point about [specific thing]. Worth connecting."

One sentence of context, one sentence of intent. This works even without any shared professional background.

Connecting with someone at a target company

"Hi [Name], I am researching [Company] ahead of applying for a role there. You have been there [X years], would be great to connect if you are open to a quick chat."

People at companies you want to join are usually willing to connect when asked politely and specifically. Naming the company and acknowledging their tenure makes it feel genuine rather than automated.

What to do after they accept

The second mistake most candidates make: sending an immediate follow-up pitch the moment someone accepts. If someone accepts your request, wait at least a few days before messaging. When you do follow up, reference something new, a post they wrote since you connected, a company announcement, rather than restating why you reached out initially.

When you are ready to make a specific ask, keep it easy to answer. "Would you be willing to refer me internally?" is a large ask from someone who does not know you well. "Would a 15-minute call this week work, or is a written introduction more convenient for you?" is smaller and more actionable.

The one rule that applies to all of them

Never copy-paste the same note to everyone. LinkedIn users see enough templates that they spot one immediately. One genuinely personalised line does more than three generic sentences written for no one in particular. The time investment is 30 seconds per message. The difference in response rate is significant.