7 Best Ways to Customize A “Connection Request”

One of the reasons I like LinkedIn is because I can reach out and connect with strangers more successfully than on some other social media platforms. I can use some good old fashion professional communication skills to connect and build new - and more importantly, meaningful relationships.

A Customized Intro Is A Must-Do

The secret to getting strangers to connect with you on LinkedIn is your introduction. You must, I repeat, YOU MUST, customize each connection request. To do this, you need to go to the person’s full profile page on LinkedIn.

WARNING: Don’t ever hit the “connect” button randomly on LinkedIn. Depending on where you are on the site (particularly, if you are on a mobile device), it often times automatically sends the invite with their standard text. That is a big no-no. Why? People usually dismiss them because you didn’t take the time to explain why you want to connect with them. Nothing screams, “I’m lazy,” more than an uncustomized request. Always go to the person’s full profile page and then hit the “connect” button.

Next, it will ask you if you would like to send a personalized note. I always like to open with, “We’ve never met,” and then explain how I found the person and why I’d like to connect. I think it’s important to be truthful about not knowing the person. Plus, for some reason, it also seems to get their attention more.

Okay, now that you know what to do, let me share with you the seven angles I’ve used successfully to connect with strangers.

The Experience Angle

The example above uses the experience angle. By sharing that I was looking for someone with his specific track record, I’m showcasing that I did my homework on his profile and can see how his experience has made him successful.

The Project Angle

With this approach, you highlight a particular project or accomplishment they have listed on their profile and mention how it connects to something you are doing:

The Perspective Angle

This angle has you seeking their perspective on a topic related to a skill set you both share:

The Respect Angle

For times when the person you are reaching out to is miles ahead of you in their career:

The Mentor Angle

A form of a “thank you,” this angle has you explain how this person’s work has taught you something valuable in your career:

The Interview Angle

Asking the person for a quote to be included in a blog post you are writing on LinkedIn is a great way to get someone to connect - but only use it if you truly intend to write something! The upside here is that once you post it, you can circle back, share it with the person, and hopefully, they’ll share it with their network too. (Hint: Writing on LinkedIn can grow your network fast!)

The Industry Angle

Similar to the perspective angle, this approach has you seeking their opinion on an industry-related trend or topic.

Okay, Ready To Test It? Send Me A Request!

To help all readers get started with this, I invite you to connect with me on LinkedIn. You just have to use one of the techniques above and I’ll know you were a good student!

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