3 LinkedIn Connection Message Templates for Freelancers

Designed for professionals, LinkedIn is a powerful tool for freelancers seeking to form connections and get noticed by potential clients. But how can you make sure you’re reaching the right people, in the right way? 

The answer is: customizing your LinkedIn connection messages!

Once you’ve perfected your LinkedIn profile, you’ll be ready to network with other freelancers, reach out to prospective clients, and approach recruiters. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to perfect your LinkedIn connection messages and provide you with three templates you can use to get started. 

What Is a LinkedIn Connection Message?

A LinkedIn connection message is the first step in contacting those you want to network with. When you visit someone’s LinkedIn profile and click Connect, two options appear: Send and Add a note. If you select Send, they’ll receive the following generic message: 

I’d like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.

However, if you select Add a note, you can write a customized message. 

While it may be tempting to click “send” without customizing your message, this is the easiest way to be ignored. Recruiters get hundreds of requests every week, so taking the time to customize your message can really help you to stand out from the crowd. You get 300 characters, which may seem like a lot, but it’s worth the extra effort – those 300 characters could be the key to finding new opportunities and advancing your freelance career!

What to Include in Your LinkedIn Connection Message

Sending a message to someone you don’t know, or that you’ve only spoken to briefly, can be daunting. The following tips can help you build a solid first impression.

1. Include a greeting and introduction: Say hello to the person using their first name and, where appropriate, include their professional title. If it’s someone you don’t know, give them your name, title, and job role. If you’re a student, include your school, major, and grade, and tell them what professional or academic plans you’re hoping to pursue.

2. Explain how you found them: Was it through a networking event, job board, or LinkedIn search? Or maybe it was through a mutual connection?

3. Find common ground: Having a shared interest, school, or employer can help start a conversation and build a connection with someone new.

4. Explain why you want to connect: Before writing a LinkedIn connection message, reflect on why you’re sending it. Are you trying to make industry connections? Perhaps you’re looking for a new job? Or do you simply admire the person and want to show your appreciation and ask questions about how they got there? Whatever your reason, make it clear!

5. Include a complimentary closing: End your message with a simple “Thanks for reading” or “Look forward to hearing from you” (followed by your name). 

What to Avoid in Your LinkedIn Connection Message

1. Don’t be generic: As above, cookie-cutter messages don’t set a good first impression.

2. Connect now, pitch later: Try to connect with the person before making a pitch.

3. Editing is key: Maintain a professional tone and make sure your message is free of spelling and grammar mistakes.

4. Avoid wordiness: Keep your message concise – you only have 300 characters: make them count!

3 LinkedIn Connection Message Templates

1. How to reach out to someone you met through networking

Networking is all about making lasting impressions, even if you only have a short time to do so. The first step is to remind the person who you are and why you’re connecting with them. You could also include a call to action such as going for coffee or exchanging tips on the industry, relevant projects, or job openings.

Dear [Name],

It was great speaking to you at the [event] at [further details]. The [role] you do for [company] sounded fascinating! I’d love to stay in touch and [call to action].

Thank you,

[Name]

2. How to reach out to someone you want to work with

Whether you want someone to bounce ideas off, collaborate with, or hire for a particular task, make it clear why you want to connect. If they’re not interested, you’ll know where you stand and can keep going until you find someone who is.

Dear [Name],

I’m [Name]. I found your profile through [source], and I see you’re a [role] at [company]. I was really impressed by your [specific examples]. I’m currently looking for someone to [reason for connection], and I think you’d be a great fit! 

If you’re interested, it would be great to connect and discuss this in more detail. 

Thanks for your time.

[Name]

3. How to reach out to a recruiter

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to contact recruiters with whom you have something in common. You might both be part of the same professional organization, members of the same LinkedIn group, or simply have a mutual connection. Don’t be afraid to do some research before reaching out!

Dear [Name],

I’m [Name]. I found your profile through [organization] and wanted to discuss the possibility of working together. I’m a [role] with [x] years of experience and am seeking a new challenge. If you think my background may be a fit for any of your openings, I’d love to connect. I would also be happy to put you in touch with other professionals in my field.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

[Name]

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