If you’re in the business of sales and lead generation, you know how advantageous LinkedIn can be for connecting with potential clients and expanding your network.
That’s why we’ve crafted over 20 tailored LinkedIn request templates, specifically designed for professionals like you.
The LinkedIn communication request messages are a blend of professionalism and approachability, perfect for initiating conversations, nurturing leads, or building partnerships.
What is LinkedIn connection request?
A LinkedIn connection request is a personalized message sent to another LinkedIn member to initiate a professional relationship. It’s a handy tool for expanding your professional network on LinkedIn. It lets you connect with like-minded professionals, industry leaders, potential clients, or colleagues.
LinkedIn offers this feature to everyone – so, it’s better to start working on your own LinkedIn message template instead of sending a blank request to any degree connections.
When to send LinkedIn connection request
Pretty much whenever you feel like sending a LinkedIn message to kick the collaboration off. However, there are some particular use cases where LinkedIn connection requests are usually seen:
Networking after an event
After attending a networking event, a LinkedIn connection request is a great way to follow up with new contacts. LinkedIn connection messages solidify the connection made during the event and open the door for future communication.
Exploring career opportunities
When seeking new career paths or job opportunities, sending a LinkedIn connection message can be a strategic move. With a simple request, you can connect with industry professionals, hiring managers, or recruiters in your desired field.
Seeking professional advice or mentorship
If you’re looking for guidance or mentorship in your career, reaching out to experienced professionals via LinkedIn can be highly beneficial. Even simple LinkedIn message templates can help you gain valuable insights and advice.
Collaborating on projects or ideas
For professionals interested in collaboration, sending a connection request can initiate discussions about joint ventures, partnerships, or collaborative projects. The more personalized connection requests, the better.
Expanding your professional network
Regularly sending out connection requests is a good method to continually grow your professional network. It’s a must for staying up to date with industry trends and connecting with potential prospects.
📚 Read also: Proven 25-day multi-channel sales cadence by Nick Cegelski.
LinkedIn connection request message vs inMail
The main difference between a LinkedIn connection request message and InMail lies in their accessibility and purpose.
A LinkedIn connection request is a way to build a direct link with another LinkedIn member and allow for future interactions and network building.
In contrast, InMail, a feature available to LinkedIn Premium subscribers, gives you the option to send messages to LinkedIn members you’re not connected with.
It’s typically used for more targeted LinkedIn outreach, such as recruitment or sales pitches, without the need for an initial connection.
Best 20 LinkedIn connection request messages
Feel free to use them and adjust if needed.
#1 Pro-active post-webinar connection request
Watching your webinar now & subscribed! Wanted to connect and say thank you for sharing your insights. Hope to talk further about it? Cheers, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
It’s timely and relevant. Mentioning that you’re currently attending the webinar, you demonstrate active engagement in the person’s content. Your interest is then seen as genuine and current, so the connection is more meaningful.
When to use it:
Immediately after a webinar or online event – the sooner, the better. You can connect with someone whose work or presentation has impressed you. It’s also an opportunity to start a conversation about specific topics covered in the webinar, which can lead to a more in-depth professional relationship.
#2 Industry peer appreciation message
Hi {{Name}}, I’ve been following your work in [industry], and I’m really impressed by your insights on [specific topic]. I believe we share common interests and could benefit from exchanging ideas. Looking forward to connecting with you. Best, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
This type of message works well because it’s personalized and shows you’ve done your homework. Specifically mentioning their work and the industry, you’re showing a genuine interest in their professional expertise. It is flattering and encourages a positive response.
When to use it:
Whenever you want to connect with peers in your industry. It’s particularly effective if you have genuinely followed their work or contributions. This approach is great for building a network of peers with whom you can share ideas and insights.
#3 Mutual connection introduction
Hello {{Name}}, I noticed we both are connected with [Mutual Connection’s Name]. I’ve been impressed with your contributions to [specific field or topic]. I think connecting could be mutually beneficial. Looking forward to the opportunity. Regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Using mutual connections adds a level of trust and familiarity to your request. It also provides a common ground from which to start a conversation. Such a strategy often results in a higher acceptance rate because it feels less like a cold outreach, since you have a valid touchpoint.
When to use it:
When you share mutual connections with someone you wish to connect with. It works if the mutual connection is well-respected or known within your industry. You can expand your network within a specific professional circle, but it requires frequency and patience in building it at scale.
#4 Post-conference networking request
Hi {{Name}}, I enjoyed your session at [Conference Name]. Your thoughts on [specific topic] really resonated with me. I’d love to connect and perhaps discuss this further. Best wishes, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
The connection request template above references a specific event and topic, showing that your interest is based on their professional expertise and contributions. It also opens the door for further discussions, which can be valuable for professional growth and networking.
When to use it:
Consider using it after attending conferences, seminars, or industry events where the person has spoken or participated. Follow up on interesting discussions from the event and build connections with key figures in your field. Keep in mind that your potential lead can be buried with many requests at the same time, so take a look at timing, relevance, and follow ups.
#5 Shared industry interest request
Hello {{Name}}, I came across your LinkedIn profile and was impressed by your extensive experience in [industry name]. As professionals in the same industry, I believe we could benefit from sharing insights and experiences. I’d love to connect and perhaps explore potential collaboration opportunities. Regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
The template highlights shared industry interests. So it’s more likely to resonate with the recipient. It can show that you have a specific and genuine reason for connecting and lead to meaningful professional exchanges, great meeting options, and more.
When to use it:
Made for connecting with professionals in the same industry, especially when you have a genuine interest in their career path or specific work, and want to stay up to date.
#6 LinkedIn group member introduction
“Hi {{Name}}, I noticed we’re both members of [LinkedIn Groups Name]. Your contributions to the group discussions have been pretty thought-provoking. I think connecting could lead to some interesting exchanges of ideas. Best, {{Signature}}”
Why it’s powerful:
Since it uses the commonality of being in the same group on LinkedIn, it makes the request feel more personal. It shows that you are engaged in the group and value their contributions.
When to use it:
Use this LinkedIn connection request message when you want to connect with someone from the same LinkedIn group and if you’ve noticed their active participation or insightful contributions.
#7 Following a LinkedIn article
Dear {{Name}}, I recently read your article on LinkedIn about [topic] and found your perspectives quite enlightening. I’m keen to follow your future posts and would be honored to have you in my professional network on LinkedIn. Warm regards, {{Signature}}”
Why it’s powerful:
Engaging with someone’s LinkedIn article and acknowledging their expertise is flattering and shows interest. It demonstrates that you value their opinion and are interested in their professional insights.
When to use it:
Perfect for reaching out to someone whose LinkedIn article or post recently caught your attention, showing that you are not just interested in connecting but are also engaged with their content.
#8 Compliment on career achievements
Hello {{Name}}, I’ve been following your career path through LinkedIn and am truly impressed with your achievements in [specific field or role]. I’m always looking to connect with other professionals who are leaders in our field. Would be great to have you in my network. Cheers, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
It shows admiration for the recipient’s professional achievements. Recognizing someone’s success can create a positive impression and demonstrate respect for their career path.
When to use it:
If you want to click connect with industry leaders or professionals you admire, and you want to show them this exact thing. Personalized messages are especially effective when you have followed their career and are impressed by their accomplishments.
#9 Alumni networking request
Hi {{Name}}, I noticed we both graduated from [University Name]. It’s always great to connect with fellow alumni. I’m keen to learn about your career path since and share insights from our common educational background. Looking forward to connecting. Regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
This message taps into the shared experience of attending the same university, creating an instant common ground. Alumni connections are often strong, and can lead to equally strong professional relationships for current or future roles, or be helpful just to bounce ideas.
When to use it:
Ideal for reaching out to fellow alumni, especially when you’re looking to expand your network with professionals who have a similar educational background.
#10 Interest in specific LinkedIn post
Hello {{Name}}, I came across your recent post on LinkedIn about [specific topic] and found it incredibly insightful. I’d love to connect and follow your future posts. Your perspective could be highly beneficial for my professional growth. Best, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Engaging with specific content someone has posted on LinkedIn shows that you are not only interested in connecting but also value their professional opinion. This can make your connection request stand out.
When to use it:
Use these LinkedIn connection requests when you find a LinkedIn post particularly engaging or relevant to your field. This can make a great start to your conversation and build a connection based on shared professional interests.
#11 Seeking mentorship or guidance
Dear {{Name}}, I’ve been following your career in [company name] and am inspired by your journey. As someone aspiring to grow in this field, I’d be honored to connect and possibly gain some insights from your experiences. Warm regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Such a LinkedIn message shows respect for the recipient’s expertise and achievements. Seeking mentorship or guidance is a reason to start connecting, and can bring valuable learning opportunities – for both parties.
When to use it:
Ideal when you’re looking for mentorship, guidance, or insights from someone who has a career path or experience you admire.
#12 Collaboration proposal
Hi {{Name}}, I’ve noticed your work in [field/industry] and see a lot of synergies with my own. I believe a collaboration could be mutually beneficial. Would love to connect and discuss this further. Cheers, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
This message is direct and to the point, proposing a potential collaboration. It shows that you have a clear purpose for reaching out and see a tangible benefit in connecting.
When to use it:
These LinkedIn requests will be the most effective when you have a specific idea for collaboration or believe that combining your professional efforts could lead to beneficial outcomes.
#13 Recent event networking follow-up
Hi {{Name}}, it was such a pleasure meeting you at [Networking Event Name]. You mentioned [One Mentioned Thing]. I’d love to connect here on LinkedIn to stay up to date with your work and possibly collaborate in the future. Best, {{Signature}}”
Why it’s powerful:
It builds on a recent real-life interaction, which can make the LinkedIn connection request more personal and memorable. Good for continuing the conversation that started at an event, and be the first step towards sending a sales pitch.
When to use it:
Ideal for following up after networking events, conferences, or meetings where you’ve had meaningful interactions with potential connections.
#14 Compliment on LinkedIn activity
Hello {{Name}}, I’ve been impressed with your active participation in [LinkedIn Group Name] and your insightful posts. Connecting with you would be a great addition to my professional network on LinkedIn. Looking forward to exchanging ideas. Regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Acknowledging someone’s active participation and contributions on LinkedIn shows that you’ve taken the time to understand their professional interests and expertise. It’s a personalized approach that often leads to a positive response.
When to use it:
Use this when you want to connect with active LinkedIn members whose posts or discussions you find valuable.
#15 Exploring potential opportunities
Dear {{Name}}, I came across your profile and noticed we have several mutual connections in [industry name]. I’m currently exploring opportunities in this field and would value connecting with you for potential prospects and professional advice. Warm regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
It’s simply straightforward about your intentions to explore new opportunities, making it clear why you’re reaching out. Mentioning mutual connections adds a level of trust and commonality.
When to use it:
Comes in handy when you’re actively seeking new opportunities or career advice in a specific industry and want to connect with professionals who can provide insights or potential leads.
#16 Seeking expert opinion
“Hi {{Name}}, I’ve read your recent LinkedIn article on [topic] and found it quite thought-provoking. As I’m currently working on something similar, I’d love to connect and perhaps get your expert opinion. Cheers, {{Signature}}”
Why it’s powerful:
Asking for an expert opinion on a relevant topic shows that you value the recipient’s expertise. Creates a good starting point for a professional relationship based on mutual interests and respect for their knowledge.
When to use it:
Use this approach when you seek advice from a particular person who has demonstrated expertise in a particular area. If you are working on a project or research in a similar field, or want to collaborate/employ that person as a client, that’s a golden LinkedIn message template for you.
#17 Introduction through a mutual connection
Hello {{Name}}, I noticed we both are connected with [Mutual Connection’s Name]. As a professional specializing in lead generation, I’m always looking to expand my network with like-minded individuals. I believe we could share valuable insights. Would you be open to connecting? Best, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Leveraging mutual connections can make your outreach more trustworthy and relatable. It provides a common ground and increases the chances of your request being accepted.
When to use it:
Great for expanding your strong network through people you are mutually connected with, and when those connections are relevant to your field of lead generation.
#18 Complimenting a company’s LinkedIn presence
Hi {{Name}}, I’ve been following [Company Name]’s LinkedIn account and am impressed with your innovative approach to [specific aspect]. In my role at a lead gen agency, I appreciate such forward-thinking strategies. Let’s connect and discuss potential synergies. Regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
This approach shows that you’ve done your research about the prospective company’s LinkedIn activities. And, this can allow you to initiate a conversation about potential collaboration.
When to use it:
Use this when you want to connect with a company or individual whose LinkedIn presence aligns with your agency’s services or values, particularly for potential business opportunities. You can then follow up with a few tips on how they can improve their presence for LinkedIn algorithm.
#19 Reacting to a specific LinkedIn post for collaboration
Dear {{Name}}, your recent post on LinkedIn about [topic] really resonated with me. In my work with a lead generation agency, I see a lot of potential for collaboration in this area. Would love to connect and explore this further. Warm regards, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
Reacting to a specific post shows that you are not only active on LinkedIn but also interested in the recipient’s thoughts and opinions. This LinkedIn connection message opens the door for collaboration based on shared interests.
When to use it:
Might be helpful for when you come across a LinkedIn post that aligns with your agency’s focus or services, and you see the potential for a collaborative opportunity.
#20 Invitation for a quick phone call or meeting
Hi {{Name}}, I’m reaching out from a lead generation agency and I believe there’s a great opportunity for us to work together. Would you be open to a quick phone call to discuss potential synergies? I think a brief conversation could be mutually beneficial. Cheers, {{Signature}}
Why it’s powerful:
This direct approach is great for quickly gauging interest in a potential collaboration. It shows that you value their time by proposing a brief, focused conversation.
When to use it:
Use this when you have a clear idea of how your services could benefit the recipient and you want to move quickly towards a potential partnership or collaboration.
Supercharge your LinkedIn outreach with Woodpecker
Use Woodpecker for LinkedIn communication and transform how you connect with prospects and industry professionals.
Here’s how to get started:
- Choose your action from visiting a profile, sending a connection request, or a direct message. Each action is a step towards building a more robust network.
- Personalize your message using snippets and fallbacks or use the templates just like in emails to create personalized, attention-grabbing messages within the 300-character limit for connection requests and 3000 for direct messages.
- Stay within the limits as Woodpecker ensures you don’t exceed LinkedIn’s daily action limits and protects your account while maximizing your outreach potential.
Benefits of using Woodpecker for LinkedIn:
#1 Boosted personalization to tailor your communication and resonate with your audience.
#2 Multichannel sequencing to integrate LinkedIn actions into your broader campaign strategy for cohesive communication.
#3 Inbox synchronization to centralize all replies from LinkedIn in Woodpecker’s Inbox, making it easier to manage responses and follow up.
Are you up to expand your network? Exploring career opportunities? Or collaborating on innovative projects?
Woodpecker makes LinkedIn outreach straightforward and successful!
Start sending LinkedIn connection requests today!
The LinkedIn connection request templates are specially designed to supercharge your agency’s outreach efforts. Aiming to build relationships, generate leads, or establish collaborations?
Our templates are your starting point for meaningful and effective communication on LinkedIn.
For agencies, every connection request is an opportunity to showcase your expertise, understand potential clients’ needs, and offer solutions that align with their goals.
Personalize these templates to reflect your agency’s unique approach and values, ensuring each message resonates with the recipient, whether they’re a potential prospect, a member of a relevant LinkedIn group, or a key player in your industry.
And one more tip!
Take your LinkedIn strategy to the next level with Woodpecker. Start today and experience a smarter way to connect.
Good luck!