10 LinkedIn Message Templates That Open Doors (Backed by Data)

Intro:

LinkedIn has become an indispensable tool for lead generation in the realm of B2B marketing and sales. So why are so many sales messages still... invisible? Relying on cookie-cutter templates isn't just ineffective; it's a missed opportunity (and potentially damaging to your brand). The key to LinkedIn success? Personalized messages that truly connect.

This article provides 10 LinkedIn message templates designed to open doors and drive results, all while being grounded in effective communication principles. We'll explore strategies for contextual messages, cold connection requests, re-engaging old leads, warm intros, and using the "curiosity hook" to generate interest.

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1. Contextual Messages: Templates for Engaging After Someone Posts

One of the most effective ways to initiate a conversation on LinkedIn is to engage with someone's content. When you comment on or share a post, it creates a natural opportunity to reach out. Contextual messages leverage this by referencing their post and adding value to the conversation.

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Template:

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"Hi [Name],

Just saw your post about [Topic]. Your insights on [Specific Point] were particularly insightful. I've been working on [Related Area], and it made me think about [Relevant Question/Observation].

Would love to connect and discuss this further.

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template demonstrates that you've actually engaged with their content, it adds to the conversation, and it creates a reason to connect.
• Key takeaway: Personalization is key. 71% of consumers feel frustrated by impersonal experiences. Tailoring your message to their post shows you value their expertise.

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2. Cold Connection Requests: How to Keep it Short and Non-Pitchy

Cold connection requests are often the first point of contact on LinkedIn. It's crucial to make a good first impression by keeping your message short, professional, and non-pitchy.

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Template:

"Hi [First Name],

Your work on [mention a specific project, interest, or skill if you genuinely found something - if not, keep it broader like 'the future of X' or 'innovations in Y'] resonated with me.

Would be great to connect and perhaps exchange notes sometime.

Cheers,[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is concise, clearly states your purpose, and avoids any sales pitch. It focuses on building a professional connection.
• Key takeaway: Keep it brief. LinkedIn recommends keeping connection requests under 300 characters for optimal acceptance rates.

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3. Re-Engaging Old Leads: Refreshing the Conversation Thread

Re-engaging old leads can be a highly effective strategy. These leads have already shown some interest in the past, so it's worth reviving the conversation.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

Checking back in on our previous conversation about [Topic]. We've recently launched [New Feature/Update] that I think might be particularly relevant to your needs.

Would you be open to a quick chat to discuss?

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template references the past conversation, highlights new value, and offers a clear call to action.
• Key takeaway: Personalization is still important. 63% of consumers are more likely to consider an offer if the personalization is good.

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4. Warm Intros & Mutual Connections: Asking for Referrals Without Being Awkward

Leveraging mutual connections can be a powerful way to get introductions. However, it's important to approach this delicately and avoid being pushy.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

Noticed we have a mutual connection with [Mutual Connection's Name]. I'm looking to connect with [Prospect's Name] at [Prospect's Company] as they are involved in [Prospect's Area of Responsibility].

Would you be open to making an introduction? Let me know if I can help you too in any way.

Thanks,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is respectful, provides context for the request, and makes it easy for the connection to help.
• Key takeaway: Referrals have a high conversion rate. Referred leads have a 30% higher conversion rate than leads generated from other marketing channels.

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5. The "Curiosity Hook" Message: Getting Them to Ask You for More Info

The "curiosity hook" message is designed to pique the prospect's interest and get them to ask for more information. This approach focuses on creating intrigue rather than providing all the details upfront.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

I've recently helped companies like [Industry Examples] achieve significant results in [Area of Improvement] using a new approach.

Curious to learn more?

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is concise, highlights results, and uses a question to encourage engagement.
• Key takeaway: Questions are powerful. Sales emails that include questions are 50% more likely to get responses.

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6. Following Up After a Meeting or Event

Following up promptly and effectively after a meeting or event is crucial for nurturing leads.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

It was great connecting with you at [Event Name/Meeting Context]. I enjoyed our discussion about [Topic].

As promised, here's the information about [Resource/Next Step]. Let me know if you have any questions.

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is timely, references the interaction, and provides a clear next step.
• Key takeaway: Prompt follow-up is essential. Following up within an hour of contact can increase your chances of a response by nearly 7x.

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7. Sharing Valuable Content

Providing valuable content can position you as a thought leader and build trust with prospects.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

I came across this article/resource on [Topic] that I thought you might find useful, given your interest in [Related Area].

Here's the link: [Link to Content]

No pressure, just sharing something I found valuable.

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is helpful, non-promotional, and positions you as a valuable resource.
• Key takeaway: Content marketing is effective. 70% of B2B marketers say content marketing is effective in generating leads.

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8. Addressing a Specific Pain Point

Tailoring your message to address a specific pain point that the prospect is likely experiencing can significantly increase engagement.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

I understand that many companies in your industry struggle with [Specific Pain Point]. We've helped businesses like [Similar Companies] overcome this challenge by [Solution/Benefit].

Would you be interested in learning more about how we can help?

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template demonstrates understanding of their challenges and offers a relevant solution.
• Key takeaway: Pain-focused messaging resonates. Sales messages that focus on customer pain points perform better than those focused on product features.

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9. Offering a Solution to a Common Challenge

Similar to addressing a pain point, this template focuses on providing a solution to a common challenge faced by the prospect's industry or role.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

I work with [Industry] companies to help them [Desired Outcome/Benefit], which I know can be a big challenge.

I’d like to share some ideas that might be helpful for your team. Are you available for a brief call this week?

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template directly offers a solution and a clear call to action.
• Key takeaway: Clear calls to action are crucial. Sales emails with a single call to action can increase clicks by 371% and sales by 1617%.

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10. Following Up After No Response

Persistence can pay off, but it's important to follow up politely and provide additional value.

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Template:

"Hi [Name],

I know you're busy, but I wanted to follow up on my previous message about [Topic]. I've included a helpful resource that might be of interest: [Link to Resource].

If you're still interested in more of our resources or exploring this further, let me know.

Best,

[Your Name]"

• Why it works: This template is polite, provides additional value, and gives the prospect an easy way to re-engage.
• Key takeaway: Follow-up is essential. 80% of sales require 5 follow-up calls after the initial meeting, but 44% of salespeople give up after 1 follow-up.

These 10 LinkedIn message templates, backed by data and effective communication principles, can significantly improve your lead generation efforts. Remember that personalization, providing value, and clear calls to action are crucial for success. By implementing these strategies, you can open doors, build relationships, and drive meaningful results on LinkedIn.

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