Connection Request Messages
You have 300 characters. Make them count. The goal is to get accepted, not sell.
Why it works: Shows you actually looked at their profile. References something specific. No pitch.
Why it works: Establishes common ground. Feels like natural networking, not cold outreach.
Why it works: Clear value prop without being pushy. "In case it's ever relevant" removes pressure.
Why it fails: It's the default LinkedIn text. Shows zero effort. Gets ignored.
First Message After Connecting
Don't pitch immediately. Build rapport first, or at minimum, provide value before asking.
Why it works: References their content. Offers value. No ask. Builds relationship.
Why it works: Shows research. Opens dialogue. Positions you as knowledgeable without pitching.
Why it fails: No personalization. Unrealistic claims. Asking for time without giving value. Gets marked as spam.
Follow-Up Messages
Most replies come from follow-ups, not the first message. But don't just bump — add new value each time.
Why it works: Adds value. No pressure. Shows you're thinking about their problems.
Why it works: Social proof. Specific result. Actionable insight. Clear but soft CTA.
Why it works: Respects their time. Shows awareness. Leaves door open. Often gets the most replies.
How to Personalize at Scale
The Personalization Hierarchy
Their recent post or article
Highest impact — shows you actually engaged with their content
Company news or job postings
Shows research — "saw you're hiring 3 engineers"
Career move or promotion
Good for recent changes — "congrats on the new role"
Mutual connections or shared groups
Creates common ground — better than nothing
AI-Powered Personalization
Modern tools like LeadHunter can read a prospect's recent posts, experience, and company data to generate truly unique messages for each person — not just merge tags, but actual personalized content.