Should you send a message when you connect on LinkedIn?

You’ve found someone you’d love to connect with on LinkedIn. Now, should you add a message or just hit “Connect” and hope for the best?

The truth is, it depends.

Sometimes, a well-crafted message can open doors. Other times, it can feel like a forced pitch and get you ignored.

So, when should you send a message and when should you skip it?

Let’s dive in.

The problem with generic messages

If you’re still sending messages like:

“Hi [Name], we’re in the same industry. I’d love to connect!”

“Hey [Name], we have some mutual connections. Let’s connect!”

“Hi [Name], I came across your profile and thought we should connect.”

Just stop.

I breathe oxygen too, it's not a reason to connect.

They’re boring, vague, and scream “I don’t really care who you are.”

Most people tune out when they see these, and your request goes straight to the digital bin.

Personalised messages - make it matter

The easiest way to stand out? Be specific. Reference something they’ve shared or something you admire about their work.

It doesn’t need to be an essay - just show you’ve put some thought into it.

Try something like:

“Hey [Name], I saw your post on the future of AI and marketing. Finally, someone making sense! Let’s connect - would love to follow more of your insights.”

Or:

“Hi [Name], just listened to your episode on [Podcast Name]. Loved your take on [specific point]. Thought I’d connect and keep up with what you’re doing.”

Or:

“Hi [Name], I noticed we both nerd out on [topic]. Your post had me nodding along the whole time. Let’s connect?”

These messages show you’re paying attention.

You’re not just adding a number to your network - you’re interested in them.

The LCC method - like, comment, connect

If you want to make an impression, try my LCC Method - Like, Comment, Connect.

1. Like their recent post.
2. Leave a comment that adds value or asks a question.
3. Send the connection request and reference that post or your comment.

Something like:

“Hey [Name], just commented on your post about [topic]. Your point about [specific insight] got me thinking. Thought I’d connect and stay in the loop.”

This feels natural because you’ve already engaged with them.

What if there’s nothing to comment on?

Most people don’t post much on LinkedIn.

If that’s the case, look for other hooks:

• Have they been on a podcast recently?
• Did their company announce something big?
• Did they publish an article somewhere else?

If you find something, mention it.

If not, it’s perfectly fine to connect without a message.

When it’s okay to skip the message

Sometimes, no message is better than a bad one.

If I have nothing specific to say, I skip the message.

I’d rather let my profile speak for itself than send some bland “Hi, I’d like to connect” note.

I actually send more connection requests without messages than with.

The key is having a strong profile that makes them want to connect anyway.

If you have something interesting to say - send a personalised message. If you don’t - let your profile do the talking.

So, before you hit “Send,” ask yourself:

Does this message make me sound like someone worth connecting with?

If not, maybe it’s best to leave it blank.