Use that information, then, to craft as specific a subject line as possible: “Following Up from Last Night’s Event” is more likely to be read than “Following Up.” “Fellow Teacher Interested in Urban Education Reform” is better than “Loved Your Speech.” “Mutual Contact?” Don’t even think about it.Įarlier this year, I used LinkedIn InMail to ask a total stranger for professional advice. Try these four steps to writing a LinkedIn message that will get opened.īefore you write the message, ask yourself: How do I know this person, and why am I reaching out to him or her? Is this someone you know and need advice from? Someone you share a contact with and want to know more about? A stranger with whom you’re hoping to connect for the first time? Spend a few more minutes crafting a personalized note, and you’re much more likely to make the connections you’re looking for.
But I can’t tell you how many people I see squandering this opportunity by sending brief or automated messages that don’t give people any meaningful reason to connect-à la “Can you help me?” or “I’d like to connect with you on LinkedIn.” It’s lazy, it’s unprofessional, and it’s highly unlikely to get a response.
The amazing thing about LinkedIn is that it allows you to connect one-on-one with nearly anyone in the world. Probably not-but it happens all the time on LinkedIn. Would you ever walk up to this person and blurt out a question or request for his or her time, sans context, gratitude, and even introductions? Maybe she has your dream job, or maybe he runs a great business that you’d like to model yours after. Imagine you were at a networking event, and you spot someone you don’t know but would love to.
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