How to Message Recruiters to Connect on LinkedIn (with Examples!)

LinkedIn is one of the fastest growing networking platforms in South Africa where job seekers can build connections, find internships and job offers from recruiters and also apply from the job posts usually posted on LinkedIn. The best way to find what you are looking for is to connect with recruiters who specialize in your industry. Knowing the right approach to use when messaging recruiters is crucial as it can land you the job you have been looking for. The following tips and examples will give you an idea on how to start that conversation and impress your recruiter to hire you..

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Why Connect with Recruiters on LinkedIn?

Connecting with recruiters on LinkedIn will increase your chances of landing that job you have been looking for as you will receive job posting updates as soon as they come out and increase your visibility to recruiters in your industry. Messaging a recruiters will imprint you as a proactive candidate who is hungry to join the company. With the right communication skills you can approach your recruiter in a professional manner that will get you recognised instantly.

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How to Write a LinkedIn Message to a Recruiter

Keep this in mind when messaging your recruiter on LinkedIn:

1. Use formal language and a polite tone while maintaining professionalism
2. Be straight to the point and keep the message as briefly as possible since recruiters receive a lot of messages, it is wise to save their time and get to the point.
3. Showcase your interest by mentioning something meaningful about the company you are willing to join or something about the recruiter’s work ethic.
4. Make sure you highlight the reason behind the message, whether you are looking for a specific job or an industry connection
5. Do not attach your CV or any documents before any communication but make sure to mention that you are ready to share any necessary documents they might need.

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Step-by-Step Guide: Messaging Recruiters to Connect on LinkedIn

1. Get familiar with the Recruiter’s Profile
   Do  a thorough research on the recruiter’s profile to get an idea of the kind of jobs post they specialize in, mutual connections you share and some key words on their profile that may help you get recognised when used in your message.
2. Send a Connection Request First that briefly introduces you and why you’d like to connect.
3. If your connection request gets accepted, send a follow up brief and polite message explaining the job opportunities you are interested in while also mentioning your relevant skills. 

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Examples of LinkedIn Messages in  Different Scenarios

Example 1: When You’re Looking for a Job in A certain Company

Example 2: When You’re Interested in a Specific Role The Recruiter has Posted

Example 3: Message For General Networking

Example 4: Follow Up Message After a Connection Request is Accepted

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Tips for Messaging Recruiters on LinkedIn

1. Personalize Each Message you write to recruiters according to how they have presented themselves in their profile to catch their attention, this will show the recruiters that you have taken time to learn something about them and what they specialize in.
2. Before messaging or connecting with any recruiter, update your profile as recruiters are likely to check your profile before responding. Upload a professional photo of you, update your work history chronologically and highlight your experience and skills.
3. Since Recruiters receive a lot of messages from other job seekers, give them a much needed time to respond after sending your message. Do not overwhelm the recruiter with multiple messages when they are taking a long time to reply, you may send a follow up message maybe after a week of no response.
4. Always take time to express gratitude for their time and opportunity.  Show enthusiasm and eagerness for connecting.
5. Keep your other documents updated like your CV, references and more just in case the Recruiter asks for them then you provide them right away.

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How to Follow Up if You Don’t Get a Response

Your message may get lost in a pool if messages Recruiters receive everyday. You may send a follow up message after not hearing from them in a week.

Here is an example of what to say:

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Is Messaging Recruiters on LinkedIn Worth It?

Definitely, messaging recruiters on LinkedIn shows your eagerness and readiness to work while also helping you stand out from the rest of job seekers in your industry. LinkedIn has a direct route to making these connections, helping recruiters to instantly recognize proactive candidates and give jobseekers an opportunity to sell themselves and make valuable long term connections.

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Making connections on LinkedIn can open doors to job opportunities with competitive salaries. Messaging recruiters can be a tactful strategy to stand out from the rest and show your enthusiasm to work. Just make sure your message stands out, highlights your skills and experience and explains your intentions for connecting, whether you are interested in a specific job post or just building meaningful connections in your industry.