When it comes to LinkedIn connection requests, what should you include in the message? Particularly when you are connecting with someone that you don’t know personally?
Here are some tips and ideas for you.
* It is fine to visit their profile once or twice, prior to making the connection request.
* Always include a personal message.
* Start with their name and check that you have the correct spelling.
* Make the message about them, not about you.
* Mention something that you noticed about them or their organisation, within the connection request message.
* If possible, refer to someone you both know (if they are a mutual LinkedIn connection, so much the better).
* Mention a Linkedin Group that you both belong to. This is a good reason to join Groups.
* Mention something that you saw in their website or in the media.
* Before you press send, check the spelling carefully.
Here is an example of Message or In-Mail to a new contact:
Hi Susan
I have been reading your articles within LinkedIn about (ISSUE) and I noticed that we both know (CONTACT NAME). I have visited your website www.theirwebsite.com and I read (BLOG OR WEB PAGE) with interest. It would be great to connect with you.
Kind regards, (YOUR NAME)
How would you feel if you received a message like this? You would probably think to yourself that at least they have taken the time and trouble to write a personalised message.
The recipient of the connection request will probably look at your LinkedIn profile. Therefore, it is important to keep the information up-to-date there. Use the available word count.
Beware of sending connections requests via your smartphone. They can whizz off without giving you the chance of including a personal message.
Nigel Temple provides LinkedIn training and talks.
