Discover highly effective tips and examples for how to message a recruiter on LinkedIn. As the cliche goes, you only get one shot at a first impression!

A timely, professional, and clear LinkedIn message can go a very long way: you probably won’t be surprised to learn that 72% of hiring managers use LinkedIn when trying to fill a role. 

Your LinkedIn message to a recruiter will often be a company’s first impression of you, and as the cliche goes, you only get one shot at a first impression. It can also indirectly highlight your proficiency in English, which makes you an attractive candidate for roles that require working with global teams or clients. This can also lead to better benefits down the line. A survey of over 5,300 employers worldwide found that around 50% of employers offer better compensation packages to candidates with stronger English skills.

Now, let’s review some of our top tips for messaging recruiters and hiring managers on LinkedIn. Then we’ll share a list of helpful templates so you can use them in your job search strategy right away.

How to message a recruiter on LinkedIn

Over 70% of potential candidates are passive job seekers, which means they’re waiting for hiring mangers to contact them first. That means by simply reaching out to recruiters, hiring managers, and other people in your network, you’ll get an advantage over the competition.

So how can you craft a message that gets a response? Here are some best practices.

Optimize your LinkedIn profile

Before you embark on your job search, take the time to tailor your LinkedIn profile based on your job search goals. Here are some simple but effective ways to upgrade your profile:

• Upload a professional headshot: Your photo is the first thing people see. Ensure it’s clear, professional, and represents you well.
• Write a compelling headline: Your headline should capture your expertise and aspirations. For instance, “Bilingual Marketing Specialist | Fluent in English & Spanish | Seeking Opportunities in International Companies” tells a lot in a few words.
• Add relevant keywords: Include keywords based on your job search goals throughout your profile, like your target job title, certifications, or second languages. You can add them to your profile headline, about section, work experience, and skills.
• Gather recommendations: A recommendation, like “Maria was instrumental in our global marketing campaign, leveraging her language skills to bridge communication gaps,” can vouch for your skills and achievements. 

Add a short message with your connection request

When you send a connection request, always include a personalized note. It’s a simple gesture, but it can significantly boost your chances of acceptance. Think of it as your digital handshake — a way to introduce yourself.

Mentioning a shared interest or connection can break the ice. For example, a message like “Hi [Name], I noticed we both attended [University]. I’m exploring opportunities in international companies and would love to connect” can initiate a meaningful conversation. Here are some other topics you can bring up in your connection request:

• Mutual connections: “Hi [Name], I see we both know [Mutual Connection’s Name]. Their work at [Company] has always inspired me. I’d love to connect and learn more about your experience in the same field.”
• Recent achievements or updates: “Hello [Name], I recently came across your article on [Topic]. It provided some valuable insights that resonated with my current role. Would love to connect and discuss it further.”
• Shared groups or interests: “Hi [Name], I noticed we’re both members of the [LinkedIn Group Name]. The discussions there have always been enlightening. It’d be great to connect and share insights.”
• Past events or webinars: “Hello [Name], I remember hearing your talk at [Event Name]. Your perspective on [Topic] was truly enlightening. I’d love to connect and perhaps discuss it further.”
• Industry trends: “Hi [Name], I’ve been following the recent trends in [Industry], and I believe we share similar views on its future. Connecting could provide us both with fresh perspectives.”

Craft an attention-grabbing LinkedIn message title

A compelling title not only grabs attention but also increases the likelihood of your message being read. When reaching out to someone on LinkedIn, there is a 35% chance that they will decide whether or not to read your message based on the subject line alone. 

So, how do you craft that perfect title? Keep it concise and purposeful. Here are some examples that will signal your intent right away:

• Exploring Opportunities in [Company’s Name]
• Bilingual Professional Seeking [Job Title] Role
• [Certification/Qualification] Holder Seeking Opportunities in [Company’s Name]
• Impressed by [Company’s Recent Achievement] — Seeking to Join the Team
• Bringing [Specific Skill or Experience] to [Company’s Name]
• [Your University/College] Alumnus Interested in [Specific Role/Department]

Send a follow-up message

Didn’t get a response to your initial message? Don’t be disheartened. Sending a polite follow-up can show your genuine interest and persistence. It’s essential to wait a reasonable amount of time — perhaps a week or so — before reaching out again.

A message like “Hi [Name], I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous message regarding opportunities at [Company]. Looking forward to hearing from you” strikes the right balance between persistence and politeness.

Attach your resume

When reaching out to recruiters, it’s always a good idea to attach your resume with your first message. This provides a detailed snapshot of your qualifications, making it easier for recruiters to assess your fit.

Before you hit send, ensure your resume is updated and tailored to your target role. And remember, always attach it as a PDF to preserve the formatting. A simple line like “I’ve attached my resume for your consideration. It highlights my experience in global marketing and my language proficiency” can set the context right.

Be consistent to establish meaningful relationships

Building a meaningful relationship on LinkedIn isn’t just about sending messages into the void — it’s about consistent engagement. Regular interactions, like commenting on or liking a recruiter’s posts, can keep you on their radar.

Sharing industry news and tagging them can also foster discussions. For instance, a comment like, “Great insights on the global market trends, [Name]. I’ve noticed similar shifts in my current role, especially in regions where English and Spanish are predominant,” can spark a conversation and deepen your connection.

7 sample messages to recruiters on LinkedIn

Now that you have a better idea of how to reach out to people on LinkedIn, let’s go over some message examples to help you get started. Anything in italics should be swapped out for your own information. You can also use these message templates for other employees, like hiring managers or people in your target role or department.

To ask if a role is still open

Dear Yasmin Smith,

I am hoping to apply for the Ski Instructor position I saw Snowy Days posted on LinkedIn. However, I noticed the job listing was published over a month ago, on February 22. I just wondered whether the vacancy has already been filled? 

Many thanks for your help. If you are still accepting applications, I hope we will contact again soon! 

Best wishes, 

Biffy Green

To ask if there’s any work available at a company

Hi Yasmin,

I know you are probably busy, so I will keep this brief. I am a recent engineering graduate from Cardiff University, and I am looking for my first full-time role. I deeply admire Mrs. Smoothies as a brand and deeply respect your mission to make delicious and sustainably sourced drinks. I would be delighted at the chance to put the skills I have learned to use with you. Are there any work opportunities available for someone of my skill set and experience level? I’ve attached my resume for your convenience.

I see that you have no such positions advertised at the moment, but I thought it would be worth reaching out if something comes up in the near future. In any case, I would love to connect with you to stay current on new openings at Mrs. Smoothies. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

George Spatula   

To ask about internship opportunities

Dear Yasmin Smith,

I am currently in my second year of a security risk management degree at Copenhagen University, and I am seeking opportunities to develop my research skills in a professional context. Do you have any internship opportunities this summer? 

I have been following Egg Limited on LinkedIn for some time, and I have a deep respect for the company as a leading voice in the professional services industry. I would be particularly keen to learn from departments that deal with financial risk management. I know you must receive many such inquiries, but if you are open to discussing this further, I would be delighted to send over my CV and some letters of recommendation from my professors. 

Thank you for your consideration, I hope to hear from you soon.

Best,

Penelope Tulipface

Not sure how to sign off at the end of your message? One of our expert tutors gave a great explanation of the most appropriate formal sign-offs.

To ask another question about a role you’ve seen advertised 

Dear Yasmin Smith,

I wondered if you could help me. I noticed that The Nice Soap Company recently posted on Linkedin about hiring a UX Designer. I have a question about the position, and since you are the Head of Employee Success, I thought you might be well-placed to advise.

Do you know if the company can sponsor visa applications for this role? For context, I am a citizen of Indonesia.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Kind regards, 

Stacey Bootlace

To follow up after submitting a job application

Hi Yasmin,

I’m sure you’re very busy, but I wanted to follow up on my job application for the Digital Marketing Manager role, which I submitted last week on March 16. I haven’t heard back yet, so I thought I’d reach out to introduce myself directly. I believe my experience in B2B marketing and paid advertising makes me an excellent candidate for this position.

Please let me know if you have any questions about my qualifications. I hope to hear from you soon!

Best,

Christina Wintercorn

To follow up after an interview

Dear Yasmin,

Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the Bilingual Account Manager position earlier today. I loved hearing more about what your team is currently working on, particularly expanding into new markets in Asia. I’m very excited about the opportunity to join Auto International and share my expertise in building relationships with prospective clients.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I’m happy to connect you with my references, who can speak on my B2B sales experience and my ability to manage contract negotiations in both English and Chinese. I look forward to hearing from you soon as you continue the hiring process.

Sincerely,

Tina Shufflebottom

To ask an independent recruiter for help in your job search

Hi Yasmin,

Please excuse my messaging you out of the blue. I noticed that you are a top recruiter in the New York carpet trading industry and have worked with several companies I admire, so I thought you seemed like a great person to contact! I am a Carpet Salesman with three years of experience and a degree in business, and I am currently looking for a new position. 

I wondered if you might be able to assist me in my job search? Even if I am not a suitable candidate for any open roles you have at the moment, I would be immensely grateful for any insights you can share from a recruiter’s perspective. I can be reached at [email protected] if you prefer to discuss this over email.

Many thanks for your consideration,

Mike McMuffin