Have you ever wondered, “What do I write in a LinkedIn connection request?”
Well, one of my readers recently commented here about Linked connection requests. I love what he shared.
He outlined how he invites his 2nd-level LinkedIn connections to become 1st-level connections.
His method is so simple and professional that I want to share it here.
The 2nd-Level LinkedIn Connection Request
First, I show his template. Then, I share an example of how it might read in real life.
The template:
Hi Donna,
I’m a [Job Title] at [Company Name]. We have a few connections in common [Name 1, Name 2, and Name 3]. I’d like to add you to my LinkedIn network as well.
Thank you,
John Doe
Mobile: ###-###-####
How it would read:
Hi Donna,
I’m the Chief Marketing Officer at First Bank. We have a few connections in common (Doug McPhee, Stephanie Carroll, and Colleen Bixby). I’d like to add you to my LinkedIn network as well.
Thank you,
Larry Engel
Mobile: 303.721.0132
The Logic of the Invitation
He says:
“I add common connections’ names and my mobile number to add relevance and validity to the request. I get about a 90% acceptance rate and no IDKs.”
A 90% success rate is fantastic!
BTW, IDK stands for “I Don’t Know.” If you rack up too many of them from people you invite, you can end up in LinkedIn Jail.
For Job Seekers
If you’re not working, you might substitute this for Larry’s first sentence:
I’m a [Job Title] in the [Blank] industry, which would read, I’m a Chief Marketing Officer in the financial services industry.
The Best Way to Close a LinkedIn Invitation Request
One more thing, a recent study of 350,000 emails found:
- “Thanks in advance” email closings got the most responses.
- “Thanks” was next.
- “Thank you” trailed “thanks in advance” by 12%.
Thus, consider substituting Larry’s “Thank you” closing with “Thanks in advance.”
If you do, I’d love to hear about your results!
Let’s Connect on LinkedIn
Please invite me to connect on LinkedIn here. The more I know about my readers, the better I can make my blog.
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Donna Svei, an executive resume writer and former C-level executive, retained search consultant, and CPA, authors all of AvidCareerist’s posts.
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Comments 4
Nice post! Tailoring invites in this manner and following up with a note of appreciation after connecting are key steps in building a network versus becoming a number in a network.
Great point about saying “thank you” Rich. It’s surprises me how often that sparks more conversation. Thank you. Donna
Great post, thanks Larry and Donna!
Question, would it make sense to add Twitter or G+ connection information in addition to mobile # or is that to impersonal? It might send the message that you are active in social networks and have many connections which could be of value. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Hi Sean, My immediate thought is to keep it simple and low key. I would just want the person to think, “Oh, Sean knows John, Paul, George, and Ringo too. He doesn’t look like a criminal. Sure, I’ll connect with him.” Clicks “Accept.” End of story. I’m curious to hear what others think. Donna
That’s great advice, and now that I’m not working I will definitely try it out. Great point regarding your approach if you are out of work, to say “I’m a (job title/function)…” as it sure beats, help! I’m unemployed and desperate. Yesterday, I sent an invitation to a 2nd degree person in my industry and I cited common industry groups that we belong to.
Hi Rich, Thank you for this. Your next employer will be lucky to hire you! Donna
Hi Donna, does that mean that where LinkedIn asks Larry “How do you know ____?” He clicks ‘Friend’? If you click ‘I don’t know ____’ it doesn’t allow you to connect.
Hi Leigh,
I recommend keeping it truthful. The easiest route is a common group. If you don’t have one, consider joining a group that the person you’re inviting to connect has already joined.
Donna