How to Send Follow-Up Messages on LinkedIn?

Introduction

Why Follow-up Messages on LinkedIn Matter

A follow-up message is an instant letter you can send immediately after connecting with someone on the platform. Simply stated, it means expanding your network, keeping interest in view, and just keeping the conversation going. A good response will keep the relation intact and shall be unforgettable. It reinforces the original message, provides context for future interactions, and opens a way toward mutual benefit and collaboration. It’s the key to shifting a casual connection into meaningful business relations. Whether it be networking, conferences, initial meetings, or even following up on your job search, having the right approach definitely will.

There are different scenarios like; after a connection request or an interview and networking events in which follow-up messages are required.

Templates for Follow-Up Messages

These are some of the scenarios in which a follow-up messages are required. You cab use these templates for each specific situation.

After a Connection Request

Subject: Great to Connect!

Message: “Hi [Name], thanks for connecting! I noticed we share an interest in [industry/topic]. I’d love to discuss [related topic or potential collaboration]. Looking forward to hearing from you!”

After an Interview

Subject: Thank You for the Interview

Message: “Hi [Interviewer’s Name], thank you for the opportunity to discuss the [position] role. I am very interested in the position and believe my skills in [relevant skill] would be a great fit. Looking forward to your feedback.”

After No Response

Subject: Checking In

Message: “Hi [Name], I hope you’re well. I wanted to follow up on my previous message about [topic]. If you have any questions or need more information, please let me know. Looking forward to your reply.”

For Networking Purposes

Subject: Great Meeting You at [Event]

Message: “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [event]! I enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Let’s stay in touch and explore how we can support each other’s professional goals.”

For Job Applications

Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application

Message: “Hi [Name], I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and wanted to express my continued interest. My background in [relevant experience] makes me confident in my ability to contribute to your team. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this opportunity further.”

How to Craft Follow-Up Messages on LinkedIn

General Principles

There are also some general principles that can help in making up your follow-up message better, such as being to the point, personalization, and value offering when you want to write your follow-up message.

This is a professional network, and most of your connections are probably busy professionals. Thus, it is essential to keep your messages as short as possible. While you are writing a follow-up message on LinkedIn, avoid flowing long paragraphs and excessive details in your text. State the primary reason for your message right at the beginning and try to exclude all possible filler content. The recipient should get the point of your message immediately.

Of course, one of the most important rules of effective follow-up messages is to personalize them. That means no generic, one-size-fits-all message is likely to have an impact. Instead, always specify each message to the particular person and context of the interaction. For example, you could reference specific details from a previous conversation or meeting. Or talk about a common interest, a shared connection, or some kind of notable insight that was shared. A good follow-up message on LinkedIn means you are concerned and really interested in the person to whom you are addressing, and that will make him or her more open to your message.

The follow-up message should not all be about your needs and goals. It is actually the chance to add value to the recipient. See what you can do for them—things that can be relevant to their career goals and interests. For example, share some articles, resources, or pieces of your insight on what was talked about earlier. You can also offer assistance, share your expertise in such a way that it will help the receiver. In this way, you are establishing yourself as a valuable contact, and the likelihood of them contacting you will rise.

How to Write LinkedIn Follow-Up Messages?

Structure and Content

A follow-up message consists of three main parts; Introduction, Main Body and Closing. In introduction part, you remind the recipient who you are and how you connected. Then, in the main body, you state the purpose of the follow-up clearly in way it is understandable. And finally, you should include a call to action or next steps.

How to Follow Up Professionally on LinkedIn?

Best Practices

Timing is very essential when it comes to follow-up messages on LinkedIn. You’d want to send a message right after the very first interaction, keeping relevance and freshness in the mind of your recipient. Follow-up messages through LinkedIn should be sent within 24-48 hours of the conversation or meeting because the contact still remembers the previous interaction, and you can get a better response. However, do not forget taking the recipient’s schedule and time zone into consideration. In general, messages are more effective if they are sent during the day rather than late at night or on weekends.

Always do the follow-up messages on LinkedIn so that they resonate well in content and tone for professionalism. Avoid slang and colloquialism unless warranted based on your personal relationship with the recipient. More importantly, proofread the message for any grammatical and spelling errors; doing so definitely reflects your professionalism. The tone should also be polite and respectful throughout the message.

Also, you should make out some persistency in order for your recipient to believe that you are serious in your work; but, do not be over-aggressive.

How to Send Effective Follow-Up Messages on LinkedIn?

Techniques for Effectiveness

There are some techniques effective in writing a follow-up message, as it was mentioned earlier. One of the most efficient ways is referencing previous interactions and experiences. Another technique is to talk about shared interests in order to make the recipient more enthusiastic. And finally, you should provide value for your work and your recipient.

Specific Follow-Up Scenarios

After a LinkedIn Connection Request

Timing: Send a follow-up message shortly after the connection is accepted.

Content: Reiterate your reason for connecting and suggest next steps.

After an Interview

Timing: Follow up within 24-48 hours after the interview.

Content: Thank the interviewer, express continued interest, and summarize key points discussed.

After No Response

Timing: Wait a few days to a week before following up.

Content: Politely inquire if they had a chance to review your previous message.

For Networking Purposes

Timing: Follow up a few days after a networking event.

Content: Mention the event, express your interest in staying connected, and suggest ways to collaborate.

For Job Applications

Timing: Follow up a week after submitting the application.

Content: Reiterate your interest in the position and highlight relevant qualifications.

Conclusion

Follow-up messages are important in that you can take advantage of the time and always be at the top of your recipient’s mind by repeating your value proposition. Keeping in mind some aspects, such as personalization, timing, tone, and content—using some techniques—will guarantee your success when writing a follow-up message.