LinkedIn is a game changer in the job hunt. But even though it’s become the go-to platform, sending out a connection request to someone you’ve never met or only met once can still be quite stress-inducing. Fret not, we’ve got some helpful templates to make sending that connection request a little easier.
Someone from your university alumni network
This is a great network to tap on if you’re looking to gain more insight into what working in specific industries or companies will be like. There’s a high likelihood that these connections requests will be accepted as most people feel a strong affiliation to their alma maters.
Dear [name],
I recently entered the alumni network of [name of your university], and as a [name of your major] graduate looking to enter your industry, I’d love to connect with you. If you have some time, I’d be really excited to hear about your work at [name of their company].
Best,
[Your name]
Speaker you met at a conference/industry event
Conferences are the perfect opportunity to expand your professional network in a specific area of industry. You’re in a space with the industry’s top players as well as with people from a variety of companies and positions all related to your field.
Dear [name],
It was really nice meeting you at the [name of conference]. I especially enjoyed hearing you speak about [topic] and would love to stay in touch to see what other exciting things you’re going to do in that field.
Best,
[Your name]
Recruiter in your dream company
This is probably the one that would make you the most nervous. Ideally, you’d have a mutual connection or reference a post they’ve published on LinkedIn for an open position.
Dear [name],
I came across your post on LinkedIn (turns out we both know [name of connection]) and I wanted to reach out to see if the specific skills [name of company] is looking for matches my background. I’ve been in the [name of industry] field for the last [number of years] and would love to chat about new opportunities to challenge myself.
Best,
[Your name]
Sending a personalized message along with your connection request will make all the difference – nobody wants to be on the receiving end of a half-baked and generic approach. Give your desired connection more reason to smash that blue accept button and decrease the chances of being flat-out ignored.
As Community Manager at TalentSpace, Natalina shares advice and best practices gained from working with our community of incredible Talents and collaborating with recruiters from our partner companies on a day-to-day basis.
