How to Effectively Add a Note on LinkedIn

Let’s discuss the appropriate way to network on LinkedIn.

Ever since the latest LinkedIn update, when you attempt to connect with someone, you are given the option to either “Send now” or “Add a note.”

When you send an invitation, always take advantage of the “add a note” feature.

My recommendation is that you ALWAYS add a note on LinkedIn.

Really. Do this 100% of the time.

Not only when you are trying to network with recruiters.
Not only when you are asking for a favor.
ALWAYS!

Reasons to Connect on LinkedIn

There are really only two reasons why you would add somebody on LinkedIn.

1. You want something from them.

This could include but is not limited to:

Asking for an endorsement.
Trying to sell something.
Asking for a referral.
Networking for a job.
Requesting help with a project, survey, etc.

2. You are just adding people for the heck of it.

For whatever reason, people just like to connect with others on LinkedIn.

Sometimes there is not always a reason to connect.

That is what a L.I.O.N. (LinkedIn Open Networker) does.

Make it clear in your note which one you are.

Do you have a reason for reaching out?
Or are you just doing it for the sake of adding connections?

Why You Should Add a Note

Whatever your reason is for connecting, it’s in your best interest to add a note to every invitation you send.

The reasons why are fairly simple:

It is polite and professional.
It tells the person what you want or why you are connecting.
If you don’t need anything now, you might need something from that person someday.
First impressions are everything.

LinkedIn:

LinkedIn members are more likely to accept invitations that include a personal note.

Sample LinkedIn Notes

Over the past few weeks, I have received some LinkedIn notes that I will share.

Some are absolutely awesome and fill me with joy when I read them … while others are boring and don’t stand out in any way.

Feel free to use some ideas below to help you when networking on LinkedIn.

It’s important to share how you found the person and what you want (if you want something).

If you really want to get someone’s attention, throw some genuine flattery or politeness their way.

If you don’t want anything but just want to connect, you should still share who you are, how you found them, and why you think it could be useful to connect.

Awesome LinkedIn Notes

Mike; I found your recent article interesting as well as the information shared on your LinkedIn page. I have just begun a search for my next role and am interested in the differences a retained search offers. Please accept my connection request.

My name is XXXXX & I hope it’s ok I reached out. I read your post about not ignoring recruiters. It was valuable and made me wonder what you do. I checked out Find My Profession. Looks solid. I’m looking for a change and wonder if FMP is hiring new ‘recruiters’ in LA?

Hi, Mike! I appreciate your mindset when it comes to placing people in the right setting, so I would love to connect. I may not need your guidance at this time, but I hope to spark the connection now, for when the time comes in the future. Take care and I wish you the best!

I saw your posting and your tagline [Definitely not a recruiter] GOT my attention. It would be so refreshing to have representation from someone that understands what I do and my abilities based upon my discipline rather than [throw at the wall and see what sticks].

Hello Mike, your post was very insightful and I love the title of your LinkedIn profile. I may not be a client anytime soon, but who knows in the future. Would love to connect if that works for you. Either way, have a lovely day!

Hi Mike, It’s very nice meeting you virtually. One of our mutual contacts liked your latest post, I thought the tips were very practical and yet profound. I would love to connect with you and continue to learn more about your role and expertise in the business.