Better LinkedIn Message Openers Than 'How Are You'

I tested 𝟭𝟬𝟬+ 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 (During my last job search and as a career coach). These 𝟱 get the highest response rates, especially from hiring managers👇 1. The Profile Viewer Message Check who viewed your LinkedIn profile. They’re already aware of you, don’t let that warm lead go cold. Try this: "Hey [Name], I noticed you stopped by my profile, appreciate you taking a look! Curious, was there something specific that caught your eye, or are you open to conversations around [industry/topic you're exploring]?" 👉 Tip: Warm > Cold. Always start with people who’ve already shown interest. 2. Acknowledge + Ask Find something unique about their background or a recent post, and ask a question. "Hi [Name], I saw your talk on [topic], your insight on [specific point] stuck with me. How did you land your current role at [Company]?" People love talking about themselves, especially when you show genuine interest. 3. Value First Offer a useful insight, article, or trend that aligns with their work. No ask, just value. "Hey [Name], I saw your post about [topic]. Just came across this article, it touches on a similar trend. Thought you might find it interesting." Position yourself as thoughtful, not transactional. 4. Mutual Connection Approach Bridge a real mutual connection or shared experience. "Hi [Name], I noticed we both worked with [Person] / went to [School] / worked in [Company or Industry]. I'd love to learn more about your path, especially how you made the transition to [Role/Company]." Relatability opens doors faster than credentials. 5. Compliment + Curiosity Start with a specific compliment, then open the door. "Hi [Name], really enjoyed your article on [topic], especially your point about [detail]. Are you open to connecting with people exploring similar roles in [industry]?" It’s respectful, direct, and makes it easy for them to respond. Reminder: You don’t need to spam 100 strangers. Start with 10 meaningful messages a week. Track responses. Iterate on what works. Focus on warm leads, shared interests, and genuine curiosity. What template would you like to see next? If you're ready to level up, let’s position you for the roles you actually want. ➕Follow Jaret André for more daily data job search tips.

Standard DM templates just don’t cut it for nonprofits. They make you sound like every other group in the inbox. Here’s the rule I teach nonprofits: A great opener feels like it was only meant for 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺, And could’ve only been written by 𝘆𝗼𝘂. That’s what earns the reply. Not fancy decks. Not generic pitches. But 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹. So how do you do it? You find a believable bridge: • Something they said in an post or comment • A cause they support that overlaps with yours • A campaign they launched that you genuinely admire • A shared belief that’s not just “corporate social responsibility” fluff Then you write it like a human. Not like a sponsorship prospectus generator. Here are 5 DM openers that actually work for nonprofits: 1️⃣ Reputation + Calibration “You came up twice this week, first in a chat about employee engagement campaigns, then again in that LinkedIn thread about measuring real impact. Figured that was the algorithm’s way of saying I should reach out. You seem like someone who gets the bigger picture.” 2️⃣ Shared Mission + Personality Read “Saw your post on sustainability, I’ve been deep in that space too, mainly because I can’t stand how most people treat it like a PR checkbox. Your tone felt different, like you actually care about real outcomes, not just metrics. Thought I’d say hi.” 3️⃣ Geo Layer + Emotional Signal “Noticed you’re in Chicago, me too. Random but your post about local volunteer programs hit me. It felt like you’re trying to weave real community work into everything you do, not just sprinkle it on top.” 4️⃣ Specific Observation + Respect “Had to say, your recent piece on how to turn cause marketing into long-term brand trust was the first time I’ve seen someone nail the nuance of impact storytelling. It felt like you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty and figure out what actually works.” 5️⃣ Niche Insight + Mirror Layer “This might be overly specific, but I noticed you’re blending employee-led campaigns with community work in a way that doesn’t feel forced. Almost no one does that well. It’s a rare balance, had to mention it.” No pitch. No “just following up.” No copy-paste templates. Just genuine connection because your DM actually made sense to send. Want to see how this can work for your nonprofit? Write me a DM and I’ll send you a custom video of how you can approach different corporate partners to maximize your opportunities. With purpose and impact, Mario

You’ve got the hook to get a recruiter’s attention on LinkedIn, but how do you implement this in practice? Here’s a simple strategy to make sure your LinkedIn message stands out and gets opened: 1. 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞: Example: "Hey [Recruiter’s Name], I noticed we share a passion for [specific industry or interest], so I wanted to reach out. Have you found any hidden gems in the [industry] space recently?" 2. 𝐁𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭: Example: "Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I’m reaching out because I’m very interested in the [specific role] at [Company Name]. My experience in [specific skill or industry] aligns well with what you’re looking for, and I’d love to discuss how I can contribute to your team." 3. 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐚 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Example: "If you’re open to it, I’d love to set up a quick 15-minute call to discuss how my background in [specific area] could be a great fit for [Company Name]. Let me know if there’s a time that works for you." By following this approach, you’re not just sending another message, you’re starting a conversation that could lead to your next big opportunity. Ready to try it out? Let me know how it goes or if you have any other tips that have worked for you!

Everyone says, “Network your way into a job.” But no one tells you how to make your message actually stand out. I used to send generic cold messages that got zero replies. Then I started attaching specific questions or insights about the company or role. That’s when conversations started. Here’s how to network well: - Don’t ask for a referral in your first message. Start a conversation. - Mention a specific project or product the person worked on that excites you. - Ask one thoughtful question, not “Can I pick your brain?” - Keep it under 3 sentences. Respect their time. Here’s are a few templates you can use: - Hello! I applied to a SWE internship at Meta and had a few questions about the work culture. Would you be open to connecting? I appreciate your time! - Your work in [field/area of expertise] is truly remarkable. As an aspiring [role], I'd greatly appreciate the chance to connect and gain invaluable guidance from your journey. - I'm captivated by your unique approach to [specific aspect of their work]. Could we connect? I'd love to learn more and potentially explore opportunities for collaboration. - Hello! I read the research paper you published on XYZ topic. As a master’s student, I’m interested in pursuing research in similar fields, I’d be thrilled if you could connect! - I'm fascinated by your work on [specific project/initiative]. As an aspiring [role] in [field], I'd love to connect and learn from your expertise. Would you be open to a brief chat? - Your recent [article/interview/presentation] on [topic] resonated deeply with me. I'm keen to explore [related area of interest] and would appreciate the opportunity to connect. Your message should be short, specific, and easy to reply to. Most people just say, “Hi, can you refer me?” Be better than most people. #networking #techcareers #jobsearch #30DaysOfCareerGrowth Day 6 of #30DaysOfCareerGrowth

3 cold messages that actually got responses, from real Managers and VP's ↓ Stop sending 'please refer me' messages into the LinkedIn void. There's a better way... The following templates have helped real people in my program land jobs. Maybe they can help you? 1. The "Content Follower" Approach Subject: Wanted To Say Thanks Hey [First Name], Just wanted to send a quick "Thank You" message for all of your content. It’s inspiring to see leaders making real impact for [people, process, environment, group, etc.] and trying to lift others up along the way. If you don't mind me asking, do you have a process you use for [coming up with ideas, finding ways to help, etc.]? I'm trying to think about how I can do some of the same for [my community, my business, my boss, etc.], and I thought I'd start by asking someone who has it all figured out. No worries if it's not a good time to respond. Thanks again for all you're doing! Best, [Your Name] Why it worked: Specific compliment + low-pressure ask = easy “yes.” - - - 2. The “Common Ground” Connection Subject: Hows Life In [location X] Hi [Name], I’m not sure if you remember me, but we both [attended XYZ school / worked in X industry / follow XYZ group] and wanted to reach out. I’ve spent the last few years in [your relevant background], and currently I [live in X / work at Y]. I saw you’re currently in [location / city / state] – how’s life been there? I’m currently in [location / city / state] but am considering a move. I’m looking for some ‘local’ feedback before I dive in further. Best, [Your Name] Why it worked: Relevance + curiosity + soft career exploration = natural connection. - - - 3. The “Referral-Ready” Message Subject: [name], 1-Minute Question Hi [Name], I know this is out of the blue, but I saw you were at [company / position] and I wanted to ask: If you were pivoting into [industry/function] today, what skills would you consider to be the most important? Your input means a lot, even a one-line response would be great! Thanks in advance, [Your Name] Why it works: Short + small ask + builds momentum. - - - Stop asking for favors in the first message. Simply get the conversation started. ♻️ Repost to help other job seekers.

Before I send ANY LinkedIn message, I run through this 5-point checklist. My response rates went from 8% to 32%. Here's my exact process for messages that actually get replies: (1) Pattern Disrupt Your opening 5 words make or break the message. 'Hey [Name]' gets ignored like spam. Try these instead - "I know this is random, but..." or "You seemed like the best person to reach out to for this..." or "Really quick [Name]" (2) Problem-oriented Do I talk more about their problems than my solutions? Ex. "I'm talking to VPs of Sales who know they should be doing more on LinkedIn to drive revenue..." (3) Soft Call to Action "Would it be alright if I shared a few ideas to [solve x problem]?" (4) Under 75 Words Total Long messages = immediate skip. Short messages = actually get read. (5) Follow-Up Ready If they say yes: "That sounds like a plan, [Name]! Let's find 15 minutes where I can share a few ideas. Feel free to find a time that works best for you here: [Insert calendar link]" TAKEAWAY The best LinkedIn messages start conversations around problems you can help someone solve. Results: ➝ 32% response rate average ➝ 20% of responses are positive ➝ 6-15 qualified calls per month Thoughts? PS - Click 'Visit my website' if you're looking to turn LinkedIn into your top revenue channel this year.

Why the first 5 seconds of your LinkedIn message matter more than your entire resume. Because no one’s reading your full message Unless the first line gives them a reason to. Most cold messages sound the same: “Hope you’re doing well.” “I came across your profile…” “I’m currently seeking opportunities…” That’s not a hook. That’s a snooze. The people you’re messaging? They’re busy. Scrolling. Skimming. If you don’t lead with clarity, relevance, or intent They’re gone. So try this instead: → “Saw you’re hiring for X just applied and wanted to introduce myself.” → “I’m a data analyst who recently worked on [relevant project] loved your recent post on [topic].” → “Quick note: I’ve applied for X role and would love to share why I think I’m a great fit.” Get to the point. Make it human. Make it easy to reply. Because your resume might be strong But your message is the bridge. And if no one crosses it, They’ll never see what you built.

We sent 53,783 LinkedIn messages last month. Avg 23% response rate. 👇 Here's what the best messages had in common. (1) First things first. The best LinkedIn message in the world won't work well if you're targeting inactive people. We used LinkedIn Sales Navigator to exclusively send messages to decision makers who have posted on LinkedIn in the last 30 days. (2) The best messages focus on the problem you can help a prospect solve. Most messages in your prospect's inbox talk about the solutions they sell. Don't pitch your solution. Pitch a fix to their problem. (3) Start with a pattern disrupt If you scroll through your inbox you will see tons of messages starting with "Hey [NAME]" or Hi [NAME]" This is the best way to make sure your message blends in and never gets opened. Instead - use a pattern disrupt. Something like "I know this is random..." or "You seemed like the best person to reach out to about this..." Using the word "this" invokes curiosity to get them to open the message. (4) Always end with a clear Call to Action Don't make people guess what to do next. Spell it out for them. This can be asking a question, pitching a call, or sharing a lead magnet. I like to use this one: "Would it be alright if I shared a few ideas for how your team can do [X thing] better?" BONUS: Focus on converting positive responses to booked meetings ASAP. Whenever someone responds positively to my idea CTA I send this: "That sounds like a plan to me [NAME] - Let's find 15-20 minutes where I can share a few ideas + learn a little about how your team is [currently solving X problem] Feel free to find a time that works best for you here: [Insert Call Link] Let me know if that link works for you." PS - this sets me up to follow-up if they don't book a meeting with "Did that link work for you [NAME]?" PPS - Shoot me a message if you're looking to build a LinkedIn strategy that actually generates new revenue for your company.

Please STOP USING LinkedIn's suggested opening line in connection messages. I get at least one message a day "Hi Annie, how have you been?". I had penned a post telling people that SOMEONE has been doing the community dirty by providing that template, and then I sent a connection request, and there it was. Suggested by LinkedIn's own AI. Here's the problem with this. You and I, we don't know each other. We have never met. All of the connections I have on here come from people seeing my page and wanting to connect. "How have you been" implies we know each other. Which is what LinkedIn is assuming when it suggests that - that you are connecting with someone you used to work with. LinkedIn knows it's being used as a social media, but refuses to accept that (???). I think asking someone you don't know "how have you been?" is weird and if I screened my connection requests I wouldn't be accepting those. Instead, take the 30 seconds to tell them what about their profile stuck out to you and made you want to connect. And no, it's not "exploring possible synergies". I get that one a lot too. That's another weird one. "Hey Annie I saw you post about progressing as an IC as an analyst and that really resonated with me. Would love to connect".

7 Networking Cliches That Immediately Shut Down Conversations: ❌ 1. “Let Me Pick Your Brain” Starting conversations with “let me pick your brain” screams free consulting. The problem? Most people ignore it. Instead, ask if they have time to answer questions on a specific project. For example: “Could I ask you two quick questions about how you broke into product-marketing? I’ll keep it to five minutes.” ❌ 2. “I’d Love To Grab Coffee Sometime” What might feel like a warm invite is actually vague and time-draining, which can lead to an easy “no”. If you want to aim for an in-person 1:1, make things easier for the person at the other end and offer an online alternative if they can’t make it. Example: “I’ll be near your office next week. Up for a 15-minute coffee? If not, that’s totally fine! I’ll email you my questions.” Now you have a fallback. ❌ 3. The “Hope You’re Well” Cold Opener “Hope you are well” feels like a mass blast. Instead, open by mentioning something striking about their background or a current project they’re working on. Here’s an example: “I just saw your post on AI prompts for resumes. Loved the ‘quantify everything’ takeaway! Quick follow-up question…” Now you’re leading with genuine, specific praise. ❌ 4. “Can You Intro Me To The Hiring Manager?” Requesting the hiring manager’s contact is a big ask. Instead, seek insight first to build trust. For example: “What skills does your team value most in new hires?” This will help you build referrals while simultaneously collecting insight for your target role. ❌ 5. “Any Feedback Is Appreciated” Blank canvas questions get blank responses. Instead of asking for vague feedback? Ask them for advice on A or B. Here’s how: “I’m torn between two LinkedIn headlines: “Ops Leader | 3× Cost-Saver” or “Ops Leader Driving +25 % Margin.” Which grabs you?” This gives options and invites a one-click answer. ❌ 6. “Any Job Openings At Your Company?” This puts them on the spot and signals you haven’t done your homework. Instead, swap for curiosity. Example: “I’ve been following your team’s rollout of the new customer success dashboard. Impressive bump in retention! What skills are proving most valuable as you scale?” Now you’re gathering inside intel and positioning yourself as someone who understands their priorities. ❌ 7. “Can I send you my resume?” Dropping a resume in the first message feels like a hard sell. Instead, try: “I’m impressed how your team cut churn with predictive analytics! Could you share what skills you look for when adding analysts? If my background lines up, I’d be happy to send over a concise overview.” Now they can engage in a low-pressure conversation before committing to reading your resume. ⚠️ Inbox silent after all of your networking outreach? 👉 Let’s fix that. Book a free 30-min Clarity Call and see how we turn strangers into referrals: https://lnkd.in/gdysHr-r