How to reach out to Recruiters on LinkedIn with message examples

So... you've been using LinkedIn to search and connect with Recruiters in order to find the perfect job. You're not alone, in 2021 LinkedIn has over 660 million users in more than 200 countries and territories across the globe and Recruiters use the platform to find top talent. For the best chance of increasing your network and connecting with influential recruiters in your industry you need to ensure your first impression is its absolute best. To do this I suggest a 3 phase approach, but in this article I will mainly focus on messaging.

1. Completely fill out and optimise your LinkedIn Profile, including professional headshot, banner, optimised title with keywords, full summary, employment history with descriptions, education, skills and endorsements section - again keyword rich, certifications, courses, projects, organisations and more... check out my 'Top 5 LinkedIn tips to make your profile get noticed post here'

2. Make a list of all the companies / agencies that you would like to work for, if your serious about your job search this list will be 50+ companies. Then use the LinkedIn search bar to find the company pages and click the employees link - this will display a list of all the employees that work at that particular company from CEO to the Janitor. Now use the search bar to find specific roles like: Recruiter, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Head of Talent, Recruitment Consultant, HR Manager, Recruitment Manager.

3. Next, you need to pick the right professionals to connect with and send them a connection request... This is where you need a simple but effective cold messaging strategy to ensure your connection request does not fall on deaf ears. If they accept your invitation, they'll become a 1st degree connection.

Keep it Short and Have a Call to Action (CTA)

Nobody wants to read a long message, so keeping your message short and simple is generally the best way to go. Don’t waste time blowing smoke up their arse, or blowing your own trumpet with a list of achievements. Your profile (if optimised, including a handful of recommendations will do that for you).

The real key is to include a call to action. If you don’t know what you want, or make it clear, how will the person reading your note, know how to respond? I would use 'Lets connect' or 'please check out my profile to see how I could help'. Bottom line? When people say you can’t get a job using social media, I laugh, because you can. My clients achieve this every week.

Initial LinkedIn Out Reach Messages

Example 1:

“Hi __________, I noticed that you are a recruiter in the _______ (name of city) area. I wanted to reach out to discuss potentially working together. I’m a ________________________(share your experience) and currently seeking new opportunities. I’d love to find out if I may be a fit for any of your current openings, and I’d also be happy to connect you with other professionals in my field.

Lets connect,

_________”

Example 2:

“Hi _________, I see that you work for __________(name of recruiting agency). I wanted to reach out because I’m currently exploring new opportunities. I’ve been working professionally in (name of industry) for (number of years), and I’m ready for my next challenge! If you have time, I’d love to talk about whether my background would make me a fit for any openings you have.

Lets connect,

____________”

Example 3:

“Hi _________, My name is __________ and I’m a __________. Just looking to connect and share with others in the industry at this time. Please check out my profile to see how I could help!

Lets connect,

____________”

Example 4:

"Hi _________, I saw you mention working with __________ companies here in __________. I am a __________ in __________, and I'm thinking of testing the waters. Can I send you my CV and maybe we can work together?"

Lets connect,

____________”

Follow-Up LinkedIn Message To The Recruiter After An Accepted Connection

Thank them for accepting the request.

Mention your interest in a specific role and what you can do to benefit the company they are hiring for. The message should be short, serve one purpose and include a call to action (CTA).

Note: Don’t forget to attach your CV / Resume and I suggest using a simple signature with your name, telephone number and email address.

Example:

"Hi _________, thank you for excepting my connection request. I am interested in putting myself forward for any __________ roles in __________ (name sector) within __________ (name city). Feel free to check out my LinkedIn profile to see if I may be a fit for any of your current openings. Please find attached my CV.

Can we schedule a call to discuss?

Kind regards,

____________

Tel: ____________

Email: ____________”