LinkedIn Message Templates That Get Responses

Most LinkedIn messages fail because they are too vague.

Bad message:

That puts all the work on the other person.

A better message is specific:

• Who you are
• Why you are reaching out
• What role or topic you are asking about
• What small next step you want

Message rules

Use these rules:

Keep it under 100 words when possible.

Mention a specific role, company, or shared connection.

Ask one clear question.

Avoid sounding desperate.

Do not attach your resume in the first message unless asked.

Make it easy to say yes.

I just applied for the [Role Title] role at [Company] and wanted to briefly introduce myself.

My background in [skill/area] and [skill/area] seems closely aligned with the role, especially [specific responsibility].

I’d be grateful if you’re open to taking a look.

Thanks,

Template: Before applying Hi [Name], I saw the [Role Title] opening at [Company] and wanted to ask whether you’re the right person to contact. My background includes [relevant experience], and the role looks closely aligned.

Would it be okay if I sent over a quick note or applied directly?

Thanks,

Template: Recruiter posted the job

Hi [Name], I saw your post about the [Role Title] opening. The focus on [specific responsibility] caught my attention because I’ve worked on [relevant experience].

I’m planning to apply and wanted to briefly introduce myself here as well.

Thanks,

Hiring manager templates

Template: Value-based intro Hi [Name], I saw the [Role Title] opening on your team. The role stood out because it focuses on

In my last role, I [specific achievement]. I applied and would be excited to be considered.

Best,

Template: Ask a smart question Hi [Name], I’m interested in the [Role Title] role at [Company]. Before applying, I wanted to ask one quick question: is this role more focused on [area A] or [area B] in the first six months?

My background is strongest in [relevant area], so I’d love to understand the fit.

Thanks,

Alumni templates

Template: Shared school Hi [Name], I saw that you also went to [School] and now work at [Company]. I’m exploring roles in

Would you be open to sharing one or two pieces of advice about breaking into this kind of role?

Thanks,

Template: Career transition Hi [Name], I noticed you moved from [previous field] into [current field], which is a transition I’m exploring too. I’d love to ask a couple quick questions about what helped you make the move.

No pressure either way — thanks for considering.

Referral templates

Template: Soft referral request Hi [Name], I saw the [Role Title] opening at [Company] and noticed it connects closely with my experience in [skill] and [skill]. I’m planning to apply.

Would you be open to sharing any advice about the team or role? And if after looking at my background you think it’s a fit, I’d be grateful for a referral.

Thanks either way,

This works because it does not pressure them to refer blindly.

Follow-up templates

Template: Gentle follow-up Hi [Name], Just wanted to gently follow up in case this got buried. Still interested in the [Role Title] role and happy to send a shorter summary of my background if helpful.

Thanks either way,

Template: Thank-you follow-up Hi [Name], Thanks again for taking the time to respond. Your advice about [specific point] was helpful.

I applied for the role and will keep you posted if anything moves forward.

Really appreciate it.

Key takeaways

CTA Send a stronger resume when someone replies When a recruiter or connection asks for your resume, make sure it matches the role.

ResumeShine helps tailor it in under 60 seconds.

Frequently asked questions