LinkedIn Connection Request Templates That Get Accepted
Updated 13 September 2026
A connection request that gets accepted does one thing: it makes clear why you, specifically, are contacting them, specifically, in under 300 characters. Every template below is a variation on that.
Nothing here pitches. The request buys you the right to a conversation later, and pitching in it forfeits that.
The rules before the templates
- 300 character limit on the note. Aim for under 200.
- No pitch, no link, no calendar in the first message.
- Reference something real: a post, a talk, a mutual, a shared problem.
- Give them a reason that is about them, not about your quota.
Templates
After they posted something
Your post on [specific point] matched what we saw when we [your relevant experience]. Would like to follow your work here.
Shared context, event or community
We were both at [event] last week. Your question about [topic] stuck with me, I have been arguing the same thing internally. Happy to connect.
Mutual connection
[Name] mentioned you when we were talking about [topic]. I work on the same problem from the [your angle] side, would be glad to connect.
Cold, same problem space
I work with [audience] on [problem]. You are clearly deep in it at [company], so I would rather be connected than not. No pitch.
Reconnecting
We worked together at [company] around [year]. I have moved into [field] since then, would be good to be back in touch.
Openers that get ignored
| Opener | Problem |
|---|---|
| I would like to add you to my professional network. | The default text, reads as bulk |
| Quick question about your tech stack | Transparently a pitch |
| Loved your content! | Says nothing, could be sent to anyone |
| Congrats on the new role! [pitch] | Congratulation as a wrapper for a sale |
Volume, acceptance rate and what happens next
Keep requests to a manageable weekly number and personalise every one. Acceptance rates on written, specific notes commonly run several times higher than on blank requests.
When someone accepts, do not immediately pitch. Reply to one of their posts that week. The second touch, in public, is what makes a later direct message land.
Frequently asked questions
- How many characters can a LinkedIn connection note be?
- 300 characters. Shorter notes, under 200, generally do better because they are read in full in the notification.
- How many connection requests can I send per week?
- LinkedIn applies a weekly invitation limit, commonly around 100 for most accounts, and tightens it if many requests go unanswered. Quality keeps you well inside it.
- Should I always add a note?
- Yes for anyone who does not already know you. A blank request from a stranger is a coin flip.
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