Writing professional LinkedIn emails requires balancing brevity with personalization—most decision-makers skim messages on mobile devices between meetings. Here’s your actionable guide to emails that get responses.

The Golden Rules

• Lead with value, not a request (Never ask for a job in message #1)
• Keep connection requests under 300 characters (LinkedIn’s hard limit)
• Use InMail subject lines under 200 characters (mobile cutoff)
• Personalize the first line (show you’ve done homework)
• Include a specific call-to-action (CTA) that requires minimal effort

Templates by Scenario

1. The Connection Request (Cold)

Goal: Establish relevance without selling

Hi [Name], I’ve been following your work on [specific project/article]—particularly your approach to [detail]. I’m currently [your relevant role/context] and would value connecting to learn more about your perspective on [topic]. Best, [Your Name]

Alternative for mutual connection:

Hi [Name], [Mutual Connection] suggested I reach out regarding your expertise in [skill/industry]. I’m working on [relevant project] and admire your insights on [specific topic]. Would love to connect. Thanks, [Your Name]

2. Cold Outreach/InMail (After Connecting or via Open Profile)

Goal: Land a 15-minute conversation

Subject: [Specific result they achieved] + quick question

Hi [Name],

I saw your recent post about [specific detail]—your point about [insight] resonated because [brief personal context].

I’m helping [type of companies] solve [specific problem]. We recently helped [similar company] achieve [specific metric/result].

Would you be open to a brief 15-minute call next Tuesday or Wednesday to explore if this could be relevant for [their company]?

Best, [Your Name] [One-line credibility booster: “Ex-[Company] | [Current Role]”]

3. The “Ask for Advice” Message

Goal: Build genuine relationship (highest response rate)*

Hi [Name],

I’ve been following your career transition from [Old Industry] to [New Industry], and I’m currently navigating a similar path. Your article on [topic] changed how I approach [specific tactic].

I’d be grateful for 10 minutes of your perspective: What’s one thing you wish you’d known before making the leap?

Completely understand if your schedule is packed—I value your time.

[Your Name]

4. Follow-Up After No Response

Goal: Polite persistence without desperation (wait 5-7 days)*

Hi [Name],

Following up on my note about [topic]. I know priorities shift quickly—if [problem they face] isn’t top of mind right now, totally understandable.

I’ll try again in a month, or feel free to ping me if questions come up.

[Your Name]

5. The Referral Request (Warm)

Goal: Get introduced without making them work hard*

Hi [Name],

Thank you again for [previous conversation/help]. I noticed you’re connected to [Target Person] at [Company]—I’m very interested in their work on [specific project].

Would you be comfortable introducing us, or would it be better if I mentioned your name when reaching out directly?

Either way works for me. Thanks for considering, [Your Name]

Formatting Best Practices

Profile Hygiene First:

• Ensure your headline explains your value prop, not just your job title
• Customize your LinkedIn URL (linkedin.com/in/YourName)
• Have a professional banner image

Message Structure:

• Paragraph 1: Context/personalization (why them specifically)
• Paragraph 2: Your credibility (1 sentence max)
• Paragraph 3: Soft ask or value offer
• Sign-off: Professional but warm (avoid “Regards”—too cold; try “Best” or “Thanks”)

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

❌ The Resume Dump: Attaching your CV to the first message
❌ Generic flattery: “I love your profile” (specifics get responses)
❌ Multiple asks: Requesting a call + review of your portfolio + introduction
❌ Bulk sending: Using the same template 50 times without tweaking the first line
❌ Wrong timing: Sending Friday afternoon or Sunday evening (Tues-Thurs, 9-11am perform best)

Quick Optimization Checklist

Before hitting send, verify:

• I mentioned something they posted/published in the last 30 days
• The request takes less than 2 minutes to fulfill
• I removed all filler words (“just,” “very,” “I wanted to”)
• My ask is specific (not “pick your brain” but “your perspective on X vs Y”)

To customize this further: Are you primarily reaching out for job searching, sales/Business development, networking/industry connections, or media/partnership outreach? I can provide industry-specific templates and subject lines that convert higher in your particular field.

Also, what’s your current role or what are you pitching? This helps me tailor the credibility statements and CTAs to your specific situation.

Writing a professional LinkedIn message (often called an InMail) requires a balance between formal professionalism and the casual nature of a social network. Because people on LinkedIn are often busy, your success depends on brevity, personalization, and a clear "ask."

Here is your step-by-step guide to writing messages that actually get replies.

Phase 1: The Pre-Send Checklist

Before you type a single word, ensure your own "house" is in order. When a person receives your message, the first thing they will do is click on your profile.

• Update your Headline: Make sure it clearly states who you are and what you do.
• Professional Photo: Ensure your profile picture is clear and friendly.
• Research the Recipient: Look at their "Activity" tab. Have they posted recently? Did they get a promotion? Mentioning a specific detail shows you aren’t sending a mass template.

Phase 2: The Anatomy of a High-Response Message

A successful LinkedIn message should be under 100 words and follow this 4-part structure:

1. The Subject Line (For InMail only)

If you have LinkedIn Premium, your subject line is the gatekeeper.

• Bad: "Hi" or "Job Inquiry"
• Good: "Question regarding your recent post on [Topic]" or "Mutual connection: [Name]"

2. The Hook (The "Why You")

Don't start with "My name is..." (they can see your name). Start with why you are reaching out to them specifically.

• Example: "I really enjoyed your recent article on AI in healthcare—your point about data privacy was spot on."

3. The Value/Reason (The "Why Now")

Briefly state your purpose. Be transparent but not demanding.

• Example: "I’m currently transitioning into the health-tech space and am looking to learn from leaders who have made a similar pivot."

4. The Low-Friction CTA (The Call to Action)

Don't ask for a "job" or "an hour of your time." Ask for something easy to say yes to.

• Example: "Would you be open to a 15-minute virtual coffee next week? If not, I'd love to just stay connected here."

Phase 3: Actionable Templates for Common Scenarios

Scenario A: Reaching out to a Recruiter

Subject: Inquiry: [Job Title] role at [Company]

Hi [Name], I saw the [Job Title] posting on the [Company] careers page and was immediately drawn to the work you're doing in [Industry]. Given my background in [Skill A] and [Skill B], I believe I could add a lot of value to the team. Are you the right person to speak with about this role, or could you point me toward the hiring manager?

Scenario B: Networking / Informational Interview

Subject: Fellow [University Name] alum / Question about [Company]

Hi [Name], I’m a fellow [University] alum and noticed you’ve had a fascinating career path at [Company]. I’m currently exploring the [Industry] field and would love to hear your perspective on how the industry is changing. Do you have 10–15 minutes for a brief Zoom call next Tuesday or Wednesday?

Scenario C: Following up after a "Cold" connection

Hi [Name], thanks for connecting! I’ve been following your updates on [Topic] and have found your insights really helpful. I’m working on [Project/Goal] and would love to keep in touch as I progress. Hope you’re having a great week!

Phase 4: Pro-Tips for Success

• The 24-Hour Rule: If you are responding to a message, try to do it within 24 hours to keep the momentum.
• Follow Up Once: If you don't hear back, send one polite follow-up 5-7 days later. If they don't respond to the second message, move on.
• Avoid "Walls of Text": Use white space. Two or three short paragraphs are much easier to read on a mobile device than one long block.
• Check for Typos: A professional message loses all credibility if you misspell the company name or the person's name.

How to get started right now:

To give you more tailored advice, I need a little more information:

1. What is your primary goal? (e.g., Are you looking for a job, trying to sell a service, or just building your network?)
2. Who is your target audience? (e.g., Recruiters, C-level executives, or peers in your industry?)
3. Do you have a specific person in mind? (I can help you draft a specific message for them if you describe their profile.)