What to Say to a Recruiter on LinkedIn

What to Say to a Recruiter on LinkedIn

Reaching out to a recruiter can feel nerve-wracking, especially on a professional platform like LinkedIn. You might worry about saying the wrong thing, sounding too eager, or not getting a reply at all. But hereโ€™s the good news: knowing what to say to a recruiter on LinkedIn can open real doors to your next job.

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Whether youโ€™re actively job hunting or just exploring new opportunities, a thoughtful message can make a big difference. In this article, weโ€™ll walk you through the right things to say (and what not to say) when connecting with recruiters. Youโ€™ll learn how to be confident, polite, and clear, without overthinking every word.

Letโ€™s make reaching out less scaryโ€”and more successful.

Why Messaging a Recruiter Matters

Recruiters are always on the lookout for great talent. But they canโ€™t help you if they donโ€™t know you exist. Thatโ€™s why itโ€™s smart to message them directlyโ€”especially if you’re interested in a role they posted.

This first message is your chance to stand out. It’s not about writing a long essayโ€”just a short, clear, and kind message.

What to Say:

Hi \[Name], I came across your post about \[Role]. Iโ€™d love to learn more and share my experience

I admire your work in tech recruiting and would love to connect

Iโ€™m exploring new roles in marketingโ€”any advice would be appreciated!โ€

Thanks for sharing the job post! Iโ€™d like to apply and wondered if we could connect

What Not to Say:

Hey, got any jobs?โ€

Please check my resume ASAP

I need a job nowโ€”help me

Hi (Too short with no context)

How to Start the Conversation

Your first message should be friendly, respectful, and direct. Youโ€™re reaching out for a reasonโ€”so donโ€™t be shy about saying it. Mention the job, the company, or a mutual interest.

It helps to personalize your message instead of copying a generic template.

What to Say:

Hi Sarah, I saw your profile while researching roles at \[Company]. Iโ€™d love to hear your thoughts on what you look for in candidates

Hello, Iโ€™m very interested in the \[Job Title] role at \[Company] and wanted to ask if it’s still open

Thanks for your recent post! I’m in the middle of a job search and would love any insights you might have

Iโ€™m excited about the Companyโ€™s mission. Iโ€™d love to connect and learn how I could be a good fit

What Not to Say:

Hi, hire me

Can you forward my resume to the manager?โ€

Why havenโ€™t you responded?โ€

I need this job more than anyone

What to Include in Your Message

When deciding what to say to a recruiter on LinkedIn, think of your message like a handshake. Be warm, clear, and brief. Include:

Who you are

Why you reaching out

A quick highlight of your skills or experience

A polite close

What to Say:

Hi, Iโ€™m a software engineer with 3 years of experience in app development. I saw your post about \[Role] and would love to learn more

Hello! Iโ€™m exploring remote design roles and came across your name. Can we connect?โ€

Thanks for sharing the recent job postโ€”I have a strong background in project management and would love to apply

Iโ€™ve worked in customer support for 5+ years. Iโ€™m looking for my next opportunity and would love your insight

What Not to Say:

Iโ€™m greatโ€”check my profile

I donโ€™t really know what I want, but I thought Iโ€™d message you

Whatโ€™s the salary for this?โ€

I can do anything, just give me a shot

Following Up the Right Way

If the recruiter doesnโ€™t respond right away, donโ€™t panic. Wait about 5โ€“7 days before sending a polite follow-up. Keep it short and kindโ€”no pressure.

What to Say:

Hi \[Name], just checking in to see if you had a chance to review my last message. Thanks again for your time!โ€

Hello, Iโ€™m still interested in the \[Role] and would love to chat if youโ€™re available

Hope youโ€™re having a great week! Just following up in case my message got buried

I understand you’re busyโ€”just wanted to reconnect about the role at \[Company]

What Not to Say:

Why are you ignoring me?โ€

Guess youโ€™re not interested

Did you even read my message?โ€

HELLO???โ€

How to Stay Professional and Positive

Even if the answer is no, or thereโ€™s no reply at all, stay grateful and respectful. Recruiters remember people who are kind and professional, even if they canโ€™t help you right now.

A positive attitude builds lasting connections.

What to Say:

Thanks so much for your time!โ€

I appreciate your help either way

Let me know if any future roles come up

Happy to stay in touch!โ€

What Not to Say:

You wasted my time

This was pointless

Forget it

Iโ€™ll just go somewhere else

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to say to a recruiter on LinkedIn can be the difference between being ignored and getting that dream interview. Keep your message short, clear, and friendly. Be respectful, show genuine interest, and always follow up politely.

When in doubt, lead with kindness and curiosity. You never know what one good message could lead to. ๐Ÿ’ผโœจ

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