What Is the Best Way to Reach Out to People via LinkedIn

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Are you tired of sending out LinkedIn messages that seem to vanish into the void? Do you hesitate before hitting that “Send” button? Are you wondering how to reach out to someone on LinkedIn successfully? If so, you’re not alone. 

Many professionals struggle when it comes to reaching out to people on LinkedIn. Most of them are unsure of how to make a connection without coming across as too salesy or spammy.

But fret not because with a bit of planning and some preparation, you can create a LinkedIn message that grabs the recipient’s attention, leading to a meaningful conversation.

We’ll show you the ropes of effective LinkedIn outreach. Whether you’re after leads or job candidates or simply want to grow your professional network on LinkedIn, we have you covered! 

How do you approach your target LinkedIn users? What to say and what not to say in your message? Stick with us as we navigate through these questions and answer how to reach out to someone on LinkedIn. 

How to Reach Out to People on LinkedIn

For newbies, having a LinkedIn profile picture is crucial. Without one, your chances of getting a response will drop significantly. Also, your picture should be professional and clear, as it’s the first impression you make.

Next, your LinkedIn headline plays a vital role in getting you noticed. So, instead of using generic job titles like “salesperson” or “marketing manager,” try to get creative. Make sure it reflects your specialty or vision.

It is also super important to have a complete LinkedIn summary because this is where you sell yourself. As such, you should highlight your successes, skills, and what you bring to the table. 

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explain how to approach someone professionally on LinkedIn under different situations and circumstances.

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Sales

Before you send a cold outreach message, you should explore the company’s story, mission, and the challenges they face. This will help indicate your genuine interest in their success. It will show that you’re not just another salesperson, but a potential partner who wants to help their business grow.

For example, you might find out that they’re struggling to streamline their marketing campaigns. This is a great chance to show them how your new software could help them out.

Plus, remember to write LinkedIn messages with a touch of creativity and empathy. Explain how your product or service can turn their challenges into successes. At the same time, make sure to keep your message simple and conversational, focusing on their needs. 

It is also a good idea to invite them to have a first-hand experience of your solution through a live demo. Doing so will set the stage for successful collaborations and sales on LinkedIn.

Example

Subject: Streamline Your Marketing Campaigns With Our Software

Hi [Their Name],

I noticed your company’s focus on [mention relevant industry or sector] and admire your mission. I believe we could potentially partner to achieve even greater heights.

It seems like you’re facing challenges with streamlining your marketing campaigns.

Our new software could be the solution you’re looking for. Interested in a quick demo to see how it can benefit your company?

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn to Network

Networking on LinkedIn — it’s like soul searching, you know? It’s all about putting yourself out there and interacting with someone new. But how do I approach someone professionally on LinkedIn to network? 

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when you’re reaching out to network with someone:

First off, introduce yourself briefly and mention that common ground. It could be anything from sharing a grad school experience to having a mutual contact. Even living near each other can be a connection!

Next up, give a quick reason why you want to network with this person. Maybe you’re inspired by their work, or you’re pursuing a similar career path. Remember to keep it short and sweet.

And finally, when someone’s up for a meeting, make it easy to set a time. Offer a couple of dates and times that work for you. And if they’re down, it is good to send over a calendar invite with all the details.

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Referral

It’s no secret that LinkedIn is the best place to ask for a referral. However, keep in mind that professionalism and courtesy play crucial roles here. 

First things first, be sure to research your potential referrer’s background to find common ground or shared interests. Then, use the following tips to craft messages that get responses. 

• Address the referrer by name and introduce yourself;
• Explain why you’re reaching out;
• Remind them of your connection or mention how you found them;
• Politely ask for the referral, giving them the option to decline or ask for more information;
• Wrap up with a grateful message to leave a positive impression; 
• Avoid common mistakes like asking too soon or too late, being vague, or not personalizing your message. 

It is also a good idea to attach your resume and a relevant work sample or portfolio to show how your skills match the job requirements and company goals. In doing so, be clear and specific, highlighting how your professional background can benefit both you and the referrer. 

Also, don’t forget to thank them for their time and consideration, and follow up if needed after a few days. Remember to be patient, polite, and respectful throughout the process.

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn With a Mutual Friend

Want to contact someone on LinkedIn with a mutual friend? Well, start by acknowledging the connection upfront and mention any recommendation from the mutual contact. 

Also, express genuine interest in connecting and briefly outline your purpose, whether it’s seeking advice or exploring collaboration. And be sure to keep your message concise, respectful, and to the point, offering flexibility in scheduling a conversation or meeting. 

Example

Subject: Introduction via [Mutual Friend’s Name]

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

I’m reaching out to you through our mutual connection, [Mutual Friend’s Name], who spoke highly of you. They suggested we connect, and after learning about your expertise in [mention relevant field or industry], I’m eager to connect as well.

I’m particularly interested in [specific aspects of their expertise or work], and I believe your insights could be valuable for [briefly mention your purpose, such as seeking advice or exploring collaboration]. 

Would you be open to connecting on LinkedIn, or perhaps scheduling a brief chat to discuss further?

Looking forward to the opportunity to connect and learn from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn Who Is Not a Connection

Did you know that LinkedIn’s InMail feature lets you directly message someone you’re not connected with? You can send an InMail message from the introduction section on their profile or by composing a new message.

If you want to reach out to someone on LinkedIn who isn’t yet a connection, remember that making a memorable first impression is key. It is good to tailor your message and show genuine interest in their profile or recent activity. 

Maybe you found an article they shared or you noticed a common interest. Mentioning these details in your message shows you’ve taken the time to learn about them, increasing your chances of getting a response. 

While writing your message, be clear about why you’re reaching out and what value you can offer. Whether you want to learn more about their work, explore collaboration opportunities, or seek advice, be transparent. 

And if you want to send mass messages on LinkedIn, be sure to use Dripify, a reliable and safe LinkedIn automation tool for this purpose. The best LinkedIn automation tools allow you to schedule sending messages en masse so you don’t have to do everything manually.  On top of that, they come with built-in templates that you can quickly tailor to each recipient. 

Example

Hi [Their Name],

I hope this message finds you well! 

I just came across your profile and found it fascinating, especially [mention something specific you found interesting, like an article they shared or a common interest]. It’s clear you’re passionate about [mention their field or expertise].

I’m reaching out because I’m [mention your reason for reaching out, such as wanting to learn more about their work, explore collaboration opportunities, or seek advice]. I believe there may be potential for us to [mention how you could potentially benefit each other].

I’d love the opportunity to connect and discuss further. Would you be open to a conversation sometime this week?

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn Who Viewed Your LinkedIn Profile

When someone views your LinkedIn profile, you can use it as an opportunity to start a conversation. It is a good idea to begin by acknowledging the profile view, saying something like, “I can see that you recently visited my profile, and I thought it’d be a great opportunity to connect.” 

This proactive approach shows that you’re attentive to your LinkedIn activity and eager to engage.

Next, look for any common interests or connections you share. Whether you attended the same university or have mutual connections in your network, you may want to mention these shared experiences to foster a sense of familiarity.

For example, you might mention, “I noticed we both have connections in common, including [name].”

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Advice

When contacting someone on LinkedIn for advice, remember that it’s all about showing respect and being genuine. 

First, tell them how much you value their expertise and insight. Maybe you’ve been following their work for a while and have always been impressed by what they do. This sets a positive tone for the conversation and shows that you’ve taken the time to learn about them.

Next, be clear about why you’re reaching out and what kind of advice you’re looking for. Maybe you need help with your career path, or you’re seeking insights into a particular industry. 

Whatever it is, be honest about what you need and why you think they can help. This strategy will increase your chances of getting valuable advice and building a meaningful connection on LinkedIn.

Example

Subject: Seeking Your Expert Advice

Hi [Their Name],

I wanted to reach out because I’ve been following your work on LinkedIn and have always been impressed by your expertise in [mention the relevant field]. Your insights have been incredibly valuable to me, and I admire the way you approach [mention a specific aspect of their work].

I’m currently [briefly explain your situation or challenge, e.g., navigating a career transition or exploring opportunities in a new industry]. I was hoping to get your advice on [mention the specific topic or area where you need guidance]. Your experience and perspective would be incredibly helpful as I navigate this next step in my journey.

Are you free for a brief conversation sometime this week? I’d love to learn from your insights and expertise. 

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Career Advice

When contacting someone on LinkedIn for career advice, it’s important to be clear and professional. 

• Introduce yourself briefly and explain why you’re reaching out;
• Let them know you admire their expertise or career path, and share the specific questions or areas where you need guidance;
• Respect their time and offer flexibility in scheduling a conversation or meeting;
• Finally, remember to thank them for their help and keep the door open for future discussions or follow-ups.

Example

Subject: Seeking Career Advice

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m reaching out to you for some career advice.

I’ve been impressed by your expertise in [mention specific field or industry], and I admire your career journey. I’m currently at a point where I’m exploring new opportunities and would greatly appreciate your insights.

Specifically, I’m interested in learning more about [mention specific topic or area where you need advice]. I believe your experience could offer valuable guidance as I navigate my own path.

Would you be available for a brief chat to discuss further? I’m flexible with timing and can accommodate whatever works best for you.

Looking forward to the opportunity to learn from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn About a Job

When reaching out to someone on LinkedIn about a job, start with confidence, avoiding apologies, and diving straight into your message. 

• Clearly state why you’re reaching out, avoid jargon, and be direct; 
• Keep your message simple by asking for one thing and keeping it short, ideally under 100 words;
• Personalize each message to show effort and avoid attachments. Keep your outreach text-only to make it inviting and increase the chances of a response.

Example

Subject: Opportunity Inquiry

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

I’m reaching out because I noticed [mention specific observations about their company or role] and was intrigued by the possibility of contributing to your team.

Could you please share more information about any current openings or opportunities available? I’m particularly interested in [mention specific area of interest or expertise].

Thank you for considering my inquiry. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Internship

So you’ve found an internship opportunity on LinkedIn and want to apply for it. But you don’t know what to write in your message. 

Well, remember that it is essential to introduce yourself briefly and share why you’re interested in their company or industry. Let them know what makes you keen on getting an internship with them, and mention any relevant skills or experiences you have. 

Be specific about what you hope to gain from the experience and why you’re excited about the chance to work with them. Also, politely ask about the internship application process or any upcoming opportunities. 

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn After Applying for a Job

Wondering how to reach out to a recruiter on LinkedIn after applying for a job? Well, when you’re following up, keep the conversation going by replying within the existing LinkedIn chat. Always address the recruiter by name and mention something you talked about before. 

Plus, show your excitement about the job and let them know you’re ready for the next steps. Keep your message short and wrap it up with a thank you. Don’t forget to check for any typos before hitting send!

Example

Subject: Following Up on Our Conversation

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I wanted to reach out and continue our conversation about the [Position Title] opportunity that I applied for recently.

I’m particularly excited about the chance to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific aspects of the company or team] that we touched upon during our previous conversation.

I’m still very interested in this role and wanted to remind you of my availability for any next steps in the hiring process.

Thank you for considering my application, and I appreciate your time and attention to this matter.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Informational Interview

When asking for an informational interview, it is essential to write a brief and professional LinkedIn message. First, check out the person’s LinkedIn profile and gather some background information. This will help personalize your message, increasing your chances of getting a response.

Next, write a clear subject line that indicates your reason for reaching out. Then start your message by introducing yourself and explaining why you want to talk to them. Be specific about what you hope to learn from the informational interview.

Plus, politely request a brief meeting or phone call to discuss their experiences and insights. 

Example

Subject: Seeking Insights: Informational Interview Request

Hi [Their Name],

I recently came across your profile on LinkedIn and was impressed by your expertise in [mention relevant field or industry]. As someone who’s aspiring to learn more about [specific topic or area of interest], I was hoping to connect with you for an informational interview.

I’m particularly interested in hearing about your experiences and insights in [mention specific area or topic]. Would you be available for a brief chat or phone call at your convenience? I completely understand if your schedule is tight, so please let me know what works best for you.

Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to the opportunity to learn from your experiences.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn for Mentorship

Want to reach out for mentorship on LinkedIn? Make sure to keep your message clear, concise, and respectful. 

First, briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re considering them as a potential mentor.

Second, let them know what you admire about their experience and how their guidance could help you. 

For example, you could express, “Your career journey and the insightful advice you share on LinkedIn have left quite an impression on me.. That’s why I’m reaching out to see if we could explore mentorship together.”

Next, share your goals and what you expect from the mentorship. In doing so, be honest about what you want to achieve and how you see the mentorship working. Whether you’re looking for career guidance, industry insights, or professional advice, make sure to explain clearly. 

Also, ask if they’re willing to be your mentor and suggest a time and way for a follow-up chat. This way, you show humility and a genuine interest in learning. It also indicates your commitment to building a meaningful mentorship relationship on LinkedIn.

How to Reach Out to Someone on LinkedIn After a Long Time

When you haven’t been in touch with someone for a while, it’s important to find a good reason to reconnect and re-engage. You want to make sure your message isn’t just about asking for something, but rather about showing genuine care and offering something valuable. 

Maybe you want to congratulate them on a recent success, share a helpful resource, ask for advice, invite them to an event, or update them on what you’ve been up to. Whatever the reason, it’s essential to be sincere and respectful.

As you write your message, remember to be authentic and considerate. Address the person by their name and use a friendly greeting and closing. Acknowledge the time that has passed since you last spoke and explain why you’re reaching out now. 

Also, show that you’re genuinely interested in them and their work, but hold off on making any requests right away. Keep your message brief, clear, and conversational, and end with a question or suggestion that encourages them to respond.

Example

Subject: Congrats on Your Success!

Hi [Their Name],

Hope you’re doing well! Just wanted to drop a quick note to say congrats on [mention their achievement] – impressive stuff! Your hard work truly shines through.

It’s been a while since we caught up, and I’d love to hear more about what you’ve been up to. 

Any chance we could grab a coffee or chat virtually sometime soon?

Looking forward to reconnecting!

Best,

[Your Name]

Tips to Message Someone Professionally on LinkedIn

Want to message someone professionally on LinkedIn? Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Improve Your Profile: First things first, make sure your LinkedIn profile looks sharp and is up to date. The person you’re reaching out to is likely to check out your profile before responding to your message. As such, be sure to add a professional picture, write a catchy headline, and craft a summary that showcases your skills. A well-optimized profile gives others a clear picture of who you are. Try Dripify LinkedIn Profile Writing Service to stand out from the crowd.
2. Keep It Short and Sweet: Nobody likes reading a novel or a wall of text on LinkedIn. So, it makes sense to keep your messages brief and to the point. Get straight to why you’re reaching out without beating around the bush. It shows you respect the recipient’s time.
3. Be Specific: Whether you’re seeking advice, showing interest in their work, or looking for collaboration, be upfront. This will make your message more compelling.

What to Say When You’re Reaching Out to Someone on LinkedIn

When you’re messaging someone on LinkedIn, make sure to first introduce yourself briefly and show interest in the recipient’s work. Be clear about why you’re reaching out, whether it’s for advice, job opportunities, or collaboration.

Also, don’t forget to mention how connecting could benefit both of you and suggest a next step, like a virtual coffee chat. Finally, keep your message respectful and personalized to grab their attention and encourage a response.

What to Avoid to Say When You’re Reaching Out to Someone on LinkedIn

When reaching out on LinkedIn, avoid self-centered messages and immediate requests. Instead, focus on the recipient’s interests and prioritize relationship-building. 

Next, steer clear of generic content. Instead tailor your message to the recipient’s professional background, skills, achievements, or interests. Plus, keep messages conversational and avoid sounding overly salesy to foster genuine engagement. 

Lastly, don’t send your message in haste. Proofread for errors and keep messages concise to enhance readability and response rates. 

Conclusion

The way of reaching out via LinkedIn is like crafting the perfect cup of coffee – it requires just the right blend of strategy, patience, and a sprinkle of creativity. The tips and examples covered in this article will help you brew up meaningful connections, spark engaging conversations, and maybe even land that dream opportunity. 

So, go forth and conquer those virtual networking waters one personalized message at a time! Cheers to your success!