Networking. There’s no doubt it’s important. You definitely don’t want to start off on the wrong foot. These quick tips will help you when connecting with professionals on LinkedIn.
1) Don’t hit that “connect” button without sending a personalized message
You’ll see the best success when you take the time to add a note and customize it to the individual.
2) Greet them by name
This also helps them to know this isn’t a copy/paste message.
3) Introduce yourself
Do you work in the same industry or have the same interests?
4) Tell them why you want to connect with them
State their job title/company in the description to show it’s more than a stock message.
Are you connecting because you’re looking for a new job or you are looking for guest speakers for your virtual summit?
Why are you reaching out to them? Let them know.
5) Provide value
Don’t ask for something without offering anything in return. It doesn’t have to be specific. Just let them know that you’ll do your best to help them if they reach out to you in the future.
A sample message might look like this: Hi Adam, I see you’re the Director of Public Relations at ABC Company. I’m the Public Relations Manager at XYZ Company. I’m always happy to connect with professionals in the communications industry. Please let me know if I can ever be of assistance. -Heather
*Remember that your initial connection message is limited to 300 characters.
