21 LinkedIn Connection Request Templates [70%+ acceptance rate]

LinkedIn members are getting picky about building a strong network these days.??

They’ve embraced the QUALITY over QUANTITY mindset, and honestly, it’s one of those trends that’s here to STAY.?

Sending meaningful, personalized connection requests is hands down one of the BEST ways to make a solid first impression.?

But, HEADS UP – don’t make it scream SALES! (Nobody likes that.)

I KNOW, coming up with unique requests for every scenario can be a pain. And especially if you’re automating the process, it's even trickier.?

Wouldn’t it be EASIER if you had a plug-and-play template??

Well, TODAY IS YOUR LUCKY DAY, my friend! We’ve got just what you need:

21 powerful LinkedIn connection request templates, complete with examples.(You can thank us later ??)

These templates are designed to help you make authentic, impactful connections.?

But first, let's understand…?

What is a LinkedIn connection request message?

A LinkedIn connection request message is like a quick note you send with your connection request.

It’s a great way to grab someone's attention and kick off a conversation.

Here’s how to do it:??

1. Open up a 2nd-degree connection’s LinkedIn profile.??

2. Click "Connect," then click "Add note."??

3. Personalize it with a short message—*you’ve got up to 300 characters, so make them count!*??

And boom, you're done.

Oh, and please—don’t cram your entire life story in there. Less is definitely more.

Before we dive into the templates, let’s make sure you avoid a few common mistakes...

5 things NOT to do when you request a connection on LinkedIn

AVOID asking for favors right away. ???

AVOID using the canned LinkedIn template.???

AVOID sending connection requests without a message. ???

AVOID overwhelming with lengthy details about yourself.??

AVOID pitching your product or service in the initial request.???

?

Build rapport first. ?

Add a quick, thoughtful note. ?

Start with genuine interest instead. ?

Keep it short, simple, and to the point. ?

Create a personalized message that stands out. ?

21 LinkedIn Connection Request Template

Below are the 21 LinkedIn templates. Feel free to use them and go wild.

Note: Add a bit of variation to your messages like I did with the examples.

1. Connect with someone you met at a conference or event

Hi {Name}, it was great meeting you at {Event Name}. Our conversation about {Topic} was really insightful. I’d love to stay in touch and keep up with what you're working on!        

2. Reach out to an industry influencer for a podcast

Hi {Name}, I’m starting a podcast in the {Industry} space called {Podcast Name}, and I’d love to have you as a guest.        

3. Connect with an alumni?

Hi {Name}, as a fellow {School Name} alumna working in {Industry}, I’d love to connect and discuss how we’re both solving challenges in our fields.        

4. Send a connection request to a recruiter

Hi {Name}, I noticed you’re a recruiter in the {City} area. I’m a {Your Profession} with {X} years of experience and am currently seeking new opportunities. I’d love to discuss any potential openings.        

5. Propose a collaboration to a potential partner

Hi {Name}, I see we both work in the {Industry} space. I’m interested in exploring how we might develop a mutually beneficial partnership.        

6. Engage with someone whose LinkedIn content you admire

Hi {Name}, I recently read your {Article/Post/Video} about {Topic} and was blown away by your insights. I’d love to connect and keep up with your inspiring content.        

7. Connect with a member of the same LinkedIn group

Hi {Name}, I noticed we’re both members of the {Group Name}. I’ve enjoyed your posts, especially your recent one about {Topic}. I’d love to connect and learn more about your work.        

8. Reach out to an attendee from an event you attended

Hi {Name}, I saw that you also attended the {Event Name}. I found the session on {Topic} particularly useful. I’d love to connect and exchange feedback on the event.        

9. Add a current colleague to your LinkedIn network

Hi {Name}, congratulations on your recent {Achievement}. I’m {Your Name} from the {Department} team, and I’d love to connect!        

10. Ask for an introduction

Hi {Name}, I noticed you’re connected with {2nd Degree Connection}. Would you be able to introduce us?        

11. Asking for advice

Hi {Name}, I’m {Your Name}. I’m seeking some feedback on a product we’ve built. This isn’t a sales pitch; I genuinely value your insights. In return, I’d be happy to buy you coffee or offer an endorsement.        

12. Invite relevant people to your? LinkedIn group (Make a LinkedIn Group first!)

Hi {Name}, great to e-meet you! I reviewed your profile and thought you might be interested in a free group for {Job Title}s. It’s all about building value for the {Industry} community. Interested in joining?        

13. Contact an author of a LinkedIn article you enjoyed

Hi {Name}, I read your article about {Topic} and found it very relevant to my work. Would you be open to a quick conversation about it?        

14. Use industry humor to break the ice with a new connection

Hi {Name}, here’s a joke for you: Have you heard of that new app that produces lotion? It’s called APP-OINTMENT! Okay feel free to reject this connection request now haha          

15. Invite to a webinar

Hi {Name}, I’m hosting a webinar on {Topic}, and I think you’d find it valuable. Let’s connect, and I’ll share the most powerful framework for {Their Title} to achieve {Result}.        

16. Increase blog traffic

Hi {Name}, I recently wrote a blog on [ Title ]. Would you be interested in reading it? [Insert Link]        

17. Find the right person at your target account and “warn” them about an incoming “cold call”

Hi {Name}, I’m trying to reach the person responsible for {Issue}. If I don’t hear back, I can have my team call you tomorrow.        

18. Connect with local leaders in your area

Hi {Name}, it’s great to see a fellow {Area} resident on LinkedIn. How are you enjoying {Local Attraction/Custom/Weather}? I’d love to connect and learn more about your work at {Company}.        

19. Send a connection request with free resource

Hi {Name}, great to e-meet you! I’m {Your Name} from {Company}. I’ve talked to many {Their Title}s who found this resource helpful. Check out our free {Lead Magnet} → {Link}. If you like it, we can book 15 minutes to chat about other ways we can help. Fair?        

20. Retarget potential leads

Hi {Name}, as a member of the {Group Name} Community, I’d love to connect and offer some immediate value. {link}        

21. Pattern disruption?

Hi {Name}, pineapple on pizza? It’s vital to understand before we connect.        

Should You Ever Send a Blank Connection Request?

Some folks recommend sending blank connection requests, just because stats show they get accepted more often.?

BUT we think that makes you look like just another random person or, even worse, a spammer.?

LinkedIn is a powerful platform built for building professional relationships. Sure, it’s evolved with new use cases over time, but networking is still its core purpose.

So, take a minute to craft something engaging and personalized.?

Think about it—if you got a message that spoke directly to your interests, wouldn’t you be more likely to accept?

In fact, personalized connection requests can boost your acceptance rate by up to 70%. Now that’s worth the effort!

That’s where SalesRobot comes in.

Our tool automates your connection requests and personalizes each message to suit the recipient.?

If you want to see how effective personalized outreach can be, try SalesRobot for free for 14 days. No credit card required.?

Take advantage of this offer and start making meaningful connections today!