There are 65 million decision-makers on LinkedIn.
Are you trying to expand your network by connecting with professionals with influential roles?
You should master and take advantage of LinkedIn notes.
LinkedIn allows you to write notes up to 300 characters. So, how can you make the most of it?
How LinkedIn notes make you stand out
Maximize your chances of connecting with LinkedIn influencers by adding a personalized note. Here are a few reasons why:
- Shows genuine interest. Prove you took the time to learn more about the person you’re contacting by adding a personalized note to your LinkedIn connection invite.
- Increases response rate. People are more likely to reply when the connection request has a personalized message. Adding a human touch makes your prospects less likely to perceive the message as spam or automated.
- Improves network opportunities. Adding a LinkedIn note allows you to tell how they can benefit from connecting with you on LinkedIn.
How do LinkedIn Notes work?
At the core of LinkedIn’s networking tools are LinkedIn notes, a feature that allows you to send personalized messages to other professionals on the platform.
These notes can take various forms, from connection requests to follow-up messages after a meeting or interview.
Role and Impact
LinkedIn notes are more than just messages; they are a gateway to new opportunities and professional relationships.
Whether you’re reaching out to a potential employer, a colleague in your industry, or a prospective client, each note can either open doors or close them.
The impact of a well-composed LinkedIn note can be the difference between being noticed and being overlooked.
Making Connections
Every note you send is an opportunity to connect and expand your professional network.
By crafting personalized and thoughtful messages, you demonstrate your genuine interest in the recipient’s work and your intent to engage in a professional relationship.
This approach increases the likelihood of acceptance and sets a positive tone for future interactions within your network.
How to write compelling LinkedIn notes
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital handshake, and the notes you send are your voice in the conversation. You should craft both elements to captivate and connect.
1. Tailor your message
Before you hit ‘send’, take the time to research your recipient.
Understand their industry, role, and interests to tailor your message in a way that resonates with them. This shows that you’re not just sending a generic note but made an effort to understand who they are and what they value.
2. Create a personal brand
While professionalism is key, injecting your personality into your LinkedIn profile and notes can make you memorable.
Share your passions, experiences, and the unique perspective you bring to your industry. Let your brand shine through in every note you send, making every connection not just a professional one but also a personal one.
3. Showcase a mutual benefit
Tell them why they should connect with you. This could be that you’re both working in the same industry, mention a common interest, or ask for their expertise on a specific issue.
LinkedIn notes types and templates
LinkedIn notes vary in purpose and style, and understanding the different types can help you navigate your networking efforts more effectively.
1. Messages and requests for first-time interactions
How can you turn a stranger into a LinkedIn connection?
Use templates that are professional yet warm, and always include a reason for reaching out that is specific to the individual’s background or current role.
Example: Hey! I just read your latest post, and I think you absolutely smashed it! I have some insights on the topic we could discuss.
2. Post-meeting and interview follow-ups
After a meeting or interview, a timely LinkedIn note can keep the conversation going. Express your appreciation for the time spent and reiterate your interest in the discussion. It’s an excellent opportunity to reinforce your enthusiasm and the value you can bring to the table.
Example: Hi, {{FirstName}}
After our meeting on Monday, I found this material related to the topic we discussed and I thought you might find it interesting.
3. Requests for informational interviews or mentorship
For those seeking guidance or profound insight into their industry, LinkedIn notes can be a tool for requesting informational interviews or mentorship. Approach these requests with humility and respect for the recipient’s time and expertise. A well-crafted note can pave the way for invaluable learning and growth.
Example: Hi, {{FisrtName}} I’ve been reading a lot about your masterclass on {{Topic}}, and I think your upcoming webinar is the best place to be. Could you give me some info please?
Personalization strategies
To truly stand out on LinkedIn, a personalized approach is key. Personalization shows you’ve taken the time to understand who you’re connecting with and that you value the potential relationship.
1. Align your Message with the recipient’s interests
Review the recipient’s profile before crafting your LinkedIn note to identify shared interests or experiences. Use this information to tailor your message to resonate with them.
Mentioning a shared alma mater, professional organization, or a recent post they’ve made can create an immediate sense of connection and show genuine interest.
2. Make your call-to-action engaging
An effective call-to-action (CTA) in your LinkedIn note encourages the recipient to engage further. Whether you’re asking for a connection, a meeting, or a response, your CTA should be clear, compelling, and easy to act on.
Instead of a generic “Let’s connect,” try “I would love to discuss our mutual interest in [topic] and see how we can support each other’s goals. Would you be open to a brief chat next week?”
3. Be polite and effective
When networking on LinkedIn, maintaining professionalism is crucial. Always respect the recipient’s time and avoid being overly familiar or pushy.
Keep your notes concise, but ensure they include all necessary information.
After sending a connection request or message, give the recipient adequate time to respond before following up.
A good rule of thumb is to wait at least one week. Additionally, if someone does not respond, it’s important to accept this gracefully and not bombard them with messages.
4. Follow-up without pestering
Follow-up messages are an art form on LinkedIn. They should remind the recipient of your previous interaction and express continued interest in connecting without appearing desperate or spammy.
A follow-up note might say, “I wanted to reach out again as I’m still very interested in learning from your expertise in [area]. If you have the time, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to connect.” Remember, always be courteous and accept that some connections may not materialize.
LinkedIn Notes do’s and dont’s
Networking on LinkedIn requires a delicate balance between being assertive and respectful. When reaching out with LinkedIn notes, there are several best practices to keep in mind.
✅ Do personalize each note to show genuine interest.
❌ Don’t use generic templates without customization.
✅ Do keep your messages concise and to the point.
❌ Don’t overwhelm the recipient with too much information or overly aggressive pitches.
✅ Do check for spelling and grammatical errors before sending.
❌ Don’t underestimate the importance of a well-crafted message.
Strategies to make use of advanced LinkedIn features
If you’re familiar with LinkedIn’s basic functions, leveraging advanced features can enhance the impact of your networking efforts. These features can provide new ways to communicate and showcase your professional brand.
LinkedIn Premium and Sales Navigator
LinkedIn Premium and Sales Navigator offer enhanced capabilities for users looking to expand their networking and outreach.
Premium provides additional insights into who’s viewed your profile and the ability to send InMail to people outside your network.
Sales Navigator takes it a step further with advanced search filters, lead recommendations, and the ability to save leads and accounts, making it a powerful tool for sales professionals and recruiters.
Use rich media and voice notes
Incorporating rich media such as images, PDFs, or videos can make your LinkedIn notes more engaging. This type of content can visually represent your work or ideas, making your message more memorable.
LinkedIn’s voice note feature, available on the mobile app, also allows you to send a more personal and nuanced message through voice messaging. This can be particularly effective for making a warm introduction or expressing enthusiasm about a potential collaboration.
Measure success and react to challenges
As with any marketing or networking strategy, it’s important to track the effectiveness of your LinkedIn notes and adapt your approach based on the results.
Account your progress
Keep an eye on the acceptance rate of your connection requests and the response rate to your messages.
If you notice a trend of low engagement, it may be time to refine your messaging or targeting strategy. Use LinkedIn’s analytics to understand how people interact with your profile and content, which can provide insights into improving your notes.
Bounce back
Not every LinkedIn note will result in a positive outcome, and that’s okay.
If you’re facing non-engagement or outright rejection, take it as an opportunity to review your approach.
Consider the timing of your messages, the relevance of your content to the recipient, and whether your call-to-action is clear. Use these insights to adjust your strategy for future communications.
Key Takeaways
-> Significantly boost your professional presence by adding LinkedIn notes to your networking efforts.
-> Get more impactful connections by focusing on personalization and leveraging LinkedIn’s advanced features.
-> Keep in mind that networking is not just about expanding your contact list; it’s about cultivating reciprocal and beneficial relationships.
-> LinkedIn notes are not about a one-time interaction but about building a network supporting your professional growth.
Don’t neglect tools
Several online resources, including LinkedIn’s help center, offer templates and tips for creating effective LinkedIn notes. Consider using message templates as a starting point, but always tailor them to fit the individual you’re reaching out to.
Tools like Grammarly can help ensure your notes are grammatically correct, while apps like Hemingway Editor can make your writing clear and concise.
You can also consider an automation tool such as lemlist to make your outreach that much easier.
FAQs
- How often should I send LinkedIn notes?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but consistency is essential without being spammy. Aim for regular, meaningful interactions rather than bulk messaging. - Should I always expect a reply to my LinkedIn note?
No, not everyone will reply, and that’s normal. Focus on the quality of your connections rather than the quantity of responses. - How can I ensure my LinkedIn notes stand out?
Personalize each note, mention specific details showing you’ve done your homework, and ensure your message adds value to the recipient.
