LinkedIn is no less than a land of myriad opportunities for networking in today’s professional world. Whether you’re aiming to grow your sales pipelines, connect with industry leaders, or attract potential clients, LinkedIn cold outreach can be incredibly effective if done right.
You can learn from these 14 carefully curated hand-picked LinkedIn prospecting messages that are proven to start conversation and convert into the best deal.
These messages are crafted to be personable, direct, and value-driven—so you can maximize your chances of getting a response. Moreover, we will outline the right approach to crafting each message to ensure effectiveness, along with examples of wrong and right ways to write them.
Before diving into the actual messages, it's important to understand the key principles of effective LinkedIn outreach.
The Right Approach to LinkedIn Prospecting Messages
● Personalization
Generic messages often get ignored. Tailor each message to the recipient by mentioning their name, role, recent achievements, or shared interests. Human connection and touch are always recognized and welcomed.
● Value Proposition
Clearly articulate the value you bring to the table. Whether it's offering insights, opportunities for collaboration, or solutions, the recipient should immediately see the benefit in responding to you.
● Maintain Brevity
Cut to the chase, people are busy. Ensure that you keep your messages brief and to the point, while also including all necessary information.
● Professional Tone
Maintain a professional yet approachable tone. Respect the recipient’s time and be courteous.
Keeping these principles in mind, let’s explore the 14 LinkedIn prospecting messages, including common mistakes and how to write them correctly.
1. Personal Connection Approach
Wrong Approach
Hi,
I see you work in the same field. Let’s connect.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Right Approach
Hi Sarah,
I noticed we both share a passion for sustainable architecture, and I’ve been following your innovative projects at GreenBuild Co. I’d love to connect and discuss our shared interests in green construction!
Regards,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Highlight a mutual interest or connection to establish common ground right away. This fosters an immediate sense of familiarity and relevance.
2. Compliment and Value Offer
Wrong Way
Hi,
I saw your profile. Let’s talk about how we can work together.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Michael,
I came across your profile and was impressed by your achievements in fintech innovation. I believe there’s a lot of potential for us to collaborate and create even more value. Would you be open to a quick chat?
Regards,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Start with an authentic compliment to grab their attention and follow with a value proposition. People appreciate genuine admiration and are more likely to respond positively.
3. Straightforward Introduction
Wrong Way
Hi,
I’m in your industry. Let’s connect for potential opportunities.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Laura,
I’m David, and I specialize in digital marketing strategies for e-commerce. I’m reaching out because I believe our businesses have a lot in common. Could we schedule a brief call to explore potential synergies?
Looking forward to connecting,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Be direct about who you are and why you’re reaching out. This clarity can be appreciated by professionals with busy schedules.
4. Mutual Connection Reference
Wrong Way
Hi,
[Mutual Connection] told me about you. Let’s connect.
Best,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Anna,
James Anderson recommended that I reach out to you. We’ve been collaborating on a marketing campaign, and he suggested you might find our discussion on cross-channel promotion beneficial. Let’s connect!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Leverage a mutual connection or reference to build immediate trust and credibility. It shows that you’ve done your homework and have a common link.
5. Shared Group or Event
Wrong Way
Hi,
We’re in the same LinkedIn group. Let’s connect.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Nick,
I noticed we’re both part of the Digital Marketing Innovators group. Your insights on SEO trends were really enlightening. I’d love to discuss more with you. Can we connect?
Cheers,
[Your name]
Suggestion
Utilize shared memberships or activities to create a feeling of community and shared experiences.
6. Direct Solution Offering
Wrong Way
Hi,
I have a solution that might help you. Let me know if you’re interested.
Best,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Lisa,
I see you’re working as the Head of Operations at TechSolutions. At InnovateTech, we’ve developed a solution specifically designed to streamline IT project management. I’d love to share some details if you’re interested.
Best,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Address a specific problem the recipient might be facing and offer a tailored solution right away. This shows that you understand their needs.
7. Request for Guidance
Wrong Way
Hi,
I need advice. Can you help?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Karen,
Your experience in urban planning is truly inspiring. I’m currently working on a community development project and would greatly appreciate any advice or insight you could offer. Could we possibly connect and discuss?
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Make the recipient feel valued by seeking their advice or opinion. It shows respect for their expertise and opens the door to a thoughtful conversation.
8. Engagement with Content
Wrong Way
Hi,
I liked your post. Let’s connect.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Robert,
I recently read your post on the future of AI in healthcare, and I found your perspective very intriguing. I’d love to discuss further and see how we might be able to collaborate. Can we connect?
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Engage with their content to show genuine interest in their work. This not only flatters but also invites further discussion based on mutual interests.
9. Company Highlight
Wrong Way
Hi,
I know your company. Let’s connect.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Alan,
I’ve been keeping an eye on CreativeWorks and your role as Chief Designer. Your recent project on eco-friendly packaging caught my attention. I’d love to hear more about it and discuss a potential collaboration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Demonstrate that you’re informed about their work and achievements. This shows you’ve put in the effort to research and respect their contributions.
10. Job Opportunity or Collaboration
Wrong Way
Hi,
I have a job opportunity for you. Interested?
Best,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Emily,
Your background in data analytics is quite impressive. We’re currently looking for someone with your expertise for a new data-driven project we’re launching at DataCorp. Would you be open to discussing this opportunity?
Best,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Highlight the recipient's expertise and suggest a tangible opportunity for collaboration, making it clear what’s in it for them.
11. Industry Trends and Opportunities
Wrong Way
Hi,
I have insights into trends in our industry. Let’s talk.
Best,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Rachel,
Given your role at HealthTech, I thought you might be interested in some trends I’ve been noticing in healthcare technology. I’d love to share some insights and hear your thoughts. Can we connect?
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Suggestion
Position yourself as a knowledgeable peer who can offer valuable insights. This mutual exchange of information can establish a strong professional rapport.
12. Product Feedback Request
Wrong Way
Hi,
I need feedback on a product. Can you help?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Linda,
I value your experience in digital marketing, and I’m looking for feedback on a new analytics tool we’re developing at MarketInsights. Would you be open to providing some insights? Let’s connect!
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Request their expert feedback on a project, showing that you value their opinion and are open to constructive dialogue.
13. Inviting to an Event or Webinar
Wrong Way
Hi,
We’re hosting a webinar. Join us.
Best,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi Olivia,
We’re hosting a webinar on advanced SEO strategies, and knowing your interest in this area, I thought you might appreciate an invite. I’d love for you to join and perhaps reconnect afterward. What do you think?
Best,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Invite them to an event where they can gain valuable knowledge and network, making the offer appealing by aligning it with their interests.
14. Market Research Inquiry
Wrong Way
Hi,
I need your input for research. Can we chat?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Right Way
Hi James,
I’m conducting research on renewable energy solutions, and your expertise would be incredibly valuable. Could we connect for a brief discussion? Your insights would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Suggestion
Appeal to their expertise by requesting their valuable input for research, establishing a professional relationship based on mutual respect.
Bottom Line
Effective prospecting on LinkedIn requires a balance of personalization, value proposition, and clear communication. These 14 LinkedIn cold outreach messages are designed to help you craft compelling outreach efforts that can turn prospects into valuable connections.
By leveraging these tried-and-tested templates and adhering to the right approach, you can increase your chances of striking up meaningful conversations and eventually converting these leads into clients or collaborators. Remember, the key is to be genuine, concise, and always extend value in your outreach message.
