Introduction

Ever received a connection request that just says "Let's connect"? You probably ignored it. The same happens when your messages feel vague or forgettable. In a professional space like LinkedIn, your first message is your only shot to stand out.

Here's the catch: 72% of professionals say they're more likely to accept a LinkedIn request that includes a personal message. And yet, the majority of connection requests are either copy-pasted or submitted blank. That's a huge opportunity missed.

If you're looking to grow your network, pitch ideas, or open meaningful conversations, your networking message LinkedIn needs more than just a greeting. It needs intent, relevance, and a touch of effort.

In this article, you'll learn 10 actionable tips to write effective LinkedIn connection messages with real examples and pro tips you can use right away.

TL;DR

• A good LinkedIn connection message should show intent, context, and relevance in under 300 characters.

• Referencing profile details, mutual connections, or recent activity increases response rates.

• Avoid blank invites; even a short personal note dramatically improves acceptance.

• Offering something useful or following up once after a few days can turn ignored requests into replies.

• Tools like Valley help scale this level of personalized outreach without relying on CRM integrations.

Top 10 Tips for Effective Linkedin Connection Messages

It's simple to send a connection request, but it requires planning to make it significant. The best messages go beyond introductions and turn into real conversations. If you want your requests to be noticed (and accepted), you need more than a templated one-liner.

Here are 10 practical tips to help you write a networking message LinkedIn that feels personal, relevant, and worth replying to:

1. State Your Intent Clearly

Your message should never leave the reader wondering why you reached out. Set the context upfront so they understand your purpose without reading between the lines.

Are you looking to exchange insights? Interested in their career path? Want to explore collaboration? Be honest and specific. Avoid general phrases like "just expanding my network"; they sound lazy and insincere.

Example:

"Hi John, I came across your interview on SaaS marketing and would love to connect to learn more about your GTM experience at early-stage startups."

Pro Tip: Use phrases like "I'd love to exchange thoughts on…" or "I've been following your work in…" to keep it natural and non-pitchy.

2. Personalize Based on Their Profile

Generic messages are easy to ignore. Your message feels thoughtful when you pause to mention something unique from the recipient's profile, such as their role, most recent post, or location. It highlights that you care about them more than just increasing your numbers.

Sample message:

"Hi Smith, I noticed your recent post on sustainable packaging in D2C brands, really insightful! I'd love to connect and follow more of your work."

Also read: Understanding LinkedIn Messaging Limits for Effective Outreach

3. Reference Mutual Connections or Backgrounds

Referencing shared connections or backgrounds adds credibility to your LinkedIn outreach. Adding information, such as a mutual contact or similar experience, will greatly increase your chances of getting accepted, as the average LinkedIn connection acceptance rate is between 30 and 40%.

Whether it's attending the same university, working in the same industry, or knowing someone in common, this small detail makes your message feel more personal and trustworthy.

Example scenarios:

"Hi Jason, I noticed we're both connected to Amanda Chen from Stripe. I also worked with her during a product launch in 2024—thought I'd reach out here."

or

"Hi Emily, saw we both studied at NYU and have a background in digital marketing. Would love to connect and share insights!"

4. Include a Tangible Benefit

Offering a clear benefit in your message helps shift the conversation from "why you're connecting" to "why it's worth their time." With most professionals receiving dozens of connection requests a week, giving them something relevant, a tool, insight, or shortcut makes your message stand out. Just make sure it aligns with their role or current priorities.

Example:

"Hi Sarah, I noticed you're hiring for GTM roles at a Series A startup. We recently built a Notion tracker for early-stage hiring, happy to share if helpful."

5. Mention Recent Events or Context

Bringing up a recent event or context shows that your outreach is timely and intentional, not just part of a mass send. Including references to their accomplishments, new roles, or opinions on industry updates makes your letter seem more relevant. It tells them you're paying attention, not just reaching out for the sake of it.

Example:

Scenario: They were recently featured in a podcast

Sample message:

"Hi Jessica, I caught your episode on the SaaS GTM podcast last week. Your take on early-stage retention strategies was spot on. Would love to connect and follow more of your insights."

6. Keep the Message Short and Respectful

With so many connection requests coming through, keeping your message short and respectful goes a long way. It shows that you value the other person's time and makes it easier for them to read and respond. Aim for two or three clear lines, enough to introduce yourself, explain your intent, and create a reason to connect.

Pro Tip:  If you can't explain why you're connecting in under 300 characters, it's probably too much for a first message. Focus on one key point and save detailed intros or ask for them later.

7. Mention Shared Interests or Goals

When you highlight shared interests or goals, your message instantly feels more aligned and relevant. Whether it's AI, design thinking, startup development, or sustainable company practices, it changes the conversation from being transactional to something you both care about. This kind of connection opens the door for authentic, long-term networking.

Pro Tip: Look for clues like repeated hashtags (#B2BSaaS, #WomenInTech), topics in their featured posts, or causes they support (e.g., climate tech, remote work culture). Making a specific reference gives your message more meaning and displays that you have taken the effort to learn about their priorities.

8. Comment on Their Achievements or Thought Leadership

Not all great LinkedIn messages start with your intent sometimes; it's better to start with theirs. If someone regularly shares content, speaks at events, or leads interesting projects, acknowledge it. In addition to demonstrating that you're being attentive, a well-placed compliment turns your message from a cold request into a conversation starter.

Pro Tip: Avoid generic praise like "great post!" Instead, mention what you found useful: "Your point on customer onboarding was super actionable, especially the part about reducing drop-off in week one." That specificity makes you memorable.

9. Always Add a Personal Note

Sending a connection request without a message is like introducing yourself without saying a word; it feels impersonal and forgettable. Even a short personal message of one or two lines puts your request in context and sets a welcoming tone. It shows effort, and that alone puts you ahead of most blank invites.

Pro Tip: Use a simple structure: mention something relevant (a post, role, or mutual interest) and then state why you'd like to connect. Even a short sentence like "Loved your recent post on product-led growth, would love to connect here" can make a big difference.

10. Follow Up Thoughtfully (If Needed)

Even with a great message, not everyone replies right away, and that's okay. Following up politely shows persistence without being pushy. Wait at least 5–7 days before sending a follow-up, and when you do, keep it light. You can briefly restate your reason for reaching out or offer something new to spark interest.

Pro Tip: Avoid phrases like "just following up" on their own. Instead, reframe with context: "Circling back in case my earlier message got buried, happy to share a hiring tracker we built for early-stage teams."

Sometimes, even a well-crafted follow-up doesn't guarantee results, especially when you're managing dozens of conversations.

That's where smart outreach tools can help you scale without losing the human touch.