How to Message Recruiters to Connect on LinkedIn
In this guide you will learn how to reach out to a recruiter on LinkedIn. This is a step by step guide to prepare you to connect with recruiters and increase to chances of landing that new job. You will also find LinkedIn message examples and valuable insights below.
Andi Groke
3 Nov 2024
Mastering LinkedIn
8 min
Tip: If you are a recruiter read this guide about the best subject lines for recruiters.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Don't want to read? Listen to this Podcast:
Why you should directly message recruiters on LinkedIn
Reaching out to recruiters on LinkedIn can be a game changer in your job search. It's how you get noticed. It helps you stand out. Most candidates aren't proactive, but you can be. Contact recruiters to gain a competitive edge.
Proactive approach: Messaging a hiring manager directly helps you take control. Most people are passive. But not you. You stand out when you take action.
Direct communication: Forget crowded applications. Go direct. Speak to the person in charge. That's how you get ahead.
Building relationships: Not every message leads to new job opportunities. That's fine. You're building relationships. Relationships lead to new opportunities.
Targeted networking: Find the right people. Show them your skills. When recruiters are looking for talent, they'll remember you.
Gaining insights: Recruiters know things. They know new job opportunities, industry trends, and company culture. Messaging them gives you access to that knowledge.
Showcase your value: Your LinkedIn message is your chance to shine. Show them what makes you unique. Highlight your skills and qualifications.
Stand out: Most candidates wait. You don’t. Reaching out shows you're serious and interested.
Statistics supporting LinkedIn's effectiveness for job seekers
LinkedIn is powerful for job seekers. If you're not using it, you're missing out.
87% of recruiters consider LinkedIn the best platform for evaluating applicants.
7 hires are made every minute on LinkedIn.
72% of recruiters use LinkedIn to hire new talent.
Highlighting your skills on LinkedIn can increase your salary by 80%.
InMail messages get 3x higher response rates than regular emails.
Benefits of messaging recruiters directly on linkedIn
Access to hidden job market: Some roles aren't advertised. Recruiters know about them. Connect with them, and you're in the loop.
Faster application process: A hiring mananger can streamline things. They can guide you. They can advocate for you.
Personalized feedback: Recruiters give feedback. They can help improve your resume and LinkedIn profile. They know what works.
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Step 1: Find recruiters on LinkedIn
How to find Recruiters on LinkedIn
Direct LinkedIn search
Search for job titles like "recruiter," "talent acquisition," or "HR manager" in the LinkedIn search bar. Add industry keywords to narrow it down. Specify your location for better results.
Advanced search filters
Use LinkedIn's advanced filters. Narrow it down by industry, company size, or experience level. Filter by keywords like "recruiter" or "talent acquisition." Set your location.
LinkedIn groups
Join industry groups. Recruiters are often there. It's a great way to find them and engage.
Company pages
Visit company pages. Go to the "People" tab. Look for recruiters or hiring managers.
Referrals and recommendations
Ask your connections for introductions. Referrals increase your chances of success.
Career pages and job listings
Check career pages and job listings on LinkedIn. Sometimes recruiters' contact information is included.
Google search
Use Google. Search for "[desired job title] Recruiter [city] [state]." Focus on the businesses section, not the job listings.
How do I know which recruiter to reach out to on LinkedIn?
Selecting the right LinkedIn Recruiters for Your Outreach
Relevance to your field: Focus on reaching out to recruiters who specialize in your industry.
Recruiter profile and experience: Review their profile. Understand their expertise. Tailor your LinkedIn message to fit.
Company alignment: Look for recruiters from companies that align with your goals.
Recruiter preferences and engagement: Some recruiters specify contact preferences. Follow them.
Mutual connections: Use mutual connections for introductions. It establishes trust.
Step 2: Optimize your profile for recruiters on LinkedIn
It's important to optimize your own LinkedIn profile before you send messages to a recruiter. Remember: It's a very competitve job market and you need to do everything you can to stand out.
Complete all profile sections and use relevant keywords
A complete profile is professional. Use keywords that recruiters search for. You can test how well your LinkedIn profile ranks by using the LinkedIn search bar.
Use relevant ATS keywords
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by many companies. They use it to filter job applications and find relevant talent. By using relevant ATS keywords, you increase your chances being seen by recruiters. Include your keywords in:
Headline
Summary
Work Experience
Skills
Professional presentation
Profile photo and banner: Use a professional photo. Add a quality banner.
Compelling headline: Make your headline keyword-rich. Show your expertise.
Summary: Write about your goals. Highlight key skills and achievements.
Profile consistency: Match your LinkedIn profile to your resume.
Showcase your value
Accomplishments section: Highlight projects, awards, and publications.
Recommendations: Request recommendations. They add credibility.
Featured section: Showcase your best work.
Increase visibility and engagement
Public profile: Make it public. You want recruiters to see it.
Open to work: Enable the "Open to Work" feature.
Engage with content: Share articles. Post your thoughts. Stay visible.
Custom URL: Customize your LinkedIn URL.
Take part in LinkedIn groups: Engage in discussions. Be active.
Use tools and resources
Teal's LinkedIn Profile Review Extension: Use it for optimization tips.
LinkedIn Premium: Consider it. InMail is worth the investment.
How do you write a connection message to a recruiter on LinkedIn?
Write a short, personalized message. Introduce yourself. Mention why you want to connect. Align your skills with what they need. Address them by name and be respectful.
How do You ask recruiters to connect on LinkedIn?
Click "Connect" on their profile. Add a message. Keep it professional.
What to say when reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn
Introduce yourself. Mention your interest in their field or company.
Be specific. Highlight relevant experiences. Show how your skills match their needs.
Send private messages and personalize the message. It shows effort. Recruiters notice that.
What not to say to a recruiter on LinkedIn
Avoid generic messages. They don’t stand out.
Don’t send lengthy or casual messages. Keep it concise.
Don’t contact headhunters to review your profile for a job opportunity.
Proofread. Errors make a bad impression.
How do I connect to recruiters on LinkedIn?
After writing your LinkedIn message, click "Send Invitation." Keep it simple and to the point.
When to send a follow up message
After a connection request: Follow up with a thank-you message.
After job application: Wait one to two weeks. Respect their time.
After an interview: Send a thank-you within 24 hours. Follow up if needed.
After a previous message: No response? Follow up message after one to two weeks.
Content of your fullow-Up message
Be brief. Keep your message short.
Reiterate your interest to the job posting.
Ask for updates.
Include a personal message, look at the recruiters profile.
Offer more information if needed.
Persistence vs. Nuance
Wait at least three days before following up.
Limit follow-ups on LinkedIn after applying.
Respect their decision if they don’t reply.
Urgent subject lines increase open rates by 22%.
Clearly state the opportunity. Example: "[Job title] at [company name] for [first name]."
Recent leadership Changes: "Change" works if there's a new C-Level. Find these with Sales Navigator.
Keep it simple: Straightforward subject lines work best.
Grab Attention: Subject lines should create interest and prompt action.
Personalize: Use their name. Make it specific to their experience.
Create Urgency: "I just got offered this job..." Works well to prompt action.
Ask a question: "Are you still looking for...?" Curiosity works.
Professional tone: Keep it professional. Avoid casual language.
Example 1: Initial connection request message
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I've been following your posts about [specific topic or recent post by recruiter], and I appreciate your insights on [related industry trend or topic].
As a [candidate’s role or area of expertise], I’m focusing on [candidate’s industry focus or project]. I believe my skills in [mention specific skills related to the recruiter’s focus or company] align well with what you are looking for.
It would be great to connect and talk about possible opportunities!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]"
Example 2: Following up after connection
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
Thank you for connecting! I’m particularly interested in [specific field or company mentioned by headhunter in recent post]. I’d love to learn more about the opportunity at [company] and and tell you how I [mention relevant past achievement] in [industry].
Looking forward to staying in touch,
[Your Name]"
Example 3: Post-application follow-up
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I recently applied for the [position] at [company] and wanted to express my continued interest. Based on your experience with [industry or specific topic], I'd be grateful for any updates or insights on the process, and I’d love to talk about how my skills in [mention specific skill] could be an asset to the team.
Thank you for considering,
[Your Name]"
Example 4: After an interview
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
Thank you again for the interview opportunity for [position] at [company]. It was great to discuss how my experience in [mention relevant experience] aligns with the goals of [company or project]. I’m very enthusiastic about the chance to contribute to the team’s success.
Please let me know if there are next steps or if I can provide additional information.
Best,
[Your Name]"
Example 5: Introduction and interest in connecting
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I hope you're doing well. I recently came across your article on [specific topic or industry trend recruiter discussed] and found it incredibly insightful. As someone focused on [your area of expertise], I’m eager to connect and gain insights on [recruiter’s company, projects, or industry].
Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to connecting.
Best regards,
[Your Name]"
Example 6: Engagement-based outreach
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I noticed your recent post on [specific topic], and it resonated with my own experiences in [mention your area of expertise or project]. Your perspective on [topic recruiter discussed] aligns closely with my approach to [mention relevant skill or industry area], and I would be thrilled to connect and stay updated on your work.
Best,
[Your Name]"
Example 7: Expressing interest in upcoming opportunities
"Hi [Recruiter's Name],
I’ve been following your posts about [mention a specific trend or update in the industry]. Your insights have been helpful as I navigate my career path in [industry]. As I continue to grow in [mention candidate’s skill or experience], I’d love to connect and explore potential new opportunities with [company].
Thanks for considering my request to connect!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]"
Personalize: Mention details about the company or role. Show alignment.
Highlight Value: Use specific examples.
Be Concise: Only include relevant details.
Compelling Subject Line: It matters.
Brief Introduction: Focus on your interest.
Be Specific: State the job opportunities you want.
Call to Action: Encourage a response.
Professional Tone: Always.
Proofread: No errors.
Follow up message: But don’t spam.
What to Avoid When Messaging Recruiters
Mass copy-pasting.
Generic messages.
Lengthy essays.
Using LinkedIn messages instead of proper applications.
Demanding tone.
Generic subject lines like "Job Inquiry."
Hiring managers are busy. Be clear, concise, and targeted. Respect the recruiter's time. Follow these tips and the LinkedIn message examples to improve your chances of a response. More responses mean more new opportunities. Keep it short, keep it relevant, and you will succeed.
Author
Andi Groke
Andi is the CEO of Mind Nexus and Co-Founder of postline.ai. He is a serial entrepreneur, keynote speaker and former Dentsu executive. Andi worked in marketing for more than 15 years, serving clients such as Disney and Mastercard. Today he is developing AI marketing software for agencies and brands and is involved in several SaaS projects.