LinkedIn caps connection request notes at 300 characters, about two short sentences. Below are templates grouped by scenario, all well inside the limit. One data point to set expectations first: a note barely changes whether people accept, but a specific one roughly doubles the reply rate after they do. So use these when you want a conversation, and always swap the brackets for something real.
Before you copy anything
The data on notes is clear on one point: a generic note is the worst option, worse than no note at all, because it carries a small acceptance cost without the reply benefit. A template is just a structure. What makes it work is the specific detail you drop into it, so treat every bracket below as required, not optional, and never send a pitch in the note itself.
Templates by scenario
You share a group or community
"Hi [First name], I saw we are both in [Group name], and your take on [topic] stood out. I am connecting with people in [industry] who think seriously about [problem]. Would be glad to have you in my network."
You attended the same event or webinar
"Hi [First name], we both sat in on [event or session] last week. I am still thinking about [specific point from it]. I would love to connect and keep comparing notes on [topic]."
You have a mutual connection
"Hi [First name], [Mutual name] and I worked together on [thing], and your name came up. We are both in [space], so connecting directly felt overdue."
They posted something relevant
"Hi [First name], your post on [topic] put words to something I had been chewing on, especially the part about [detail]. Connecting so I do not miss the next one."
A role change or company trigger
"Hi [First name], congrats on the move to [Company] as [role]. I spend my time around [role]s working through [challenge] in the first 90 days. No pitch, just glad to connect."
Cold, but well targeted
"Hi [First name], I focus on [niche] and follow what [Company] is doing in [area]. I keep my network close to that world, so I would value connecting even though we have not met."
They viewed your profile
"Hi [First name], noticed you stopped by my profile. If [your area] is on your radar right now, happy to connect and be a resource whenever it is useful."
What makes these work
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| One specific, true reason to connect | A generic compliment anyone could receive |
| A warm, low-pressure close | An ask or pitch inside the note |
| Something only about them | A paragraph about you and your company |
| Under 300 characters, easy to read | Cramming the note to the limit with detail |
Test which template your audience actually accepts
Advice about notes is contested for a reason: it varies by audience. The only way to know what works on your list is to run one template against another and watch the outcome, acceptance first, then replies.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a LinkedIn connection request message be?
LinkedIn limits connection request notes to 300 characters, which is roughly two short sentences. That constraint is useful: it forces you to include one specific reason to connect and leave the pitch out. Every template on this page fits comfortably inside the limit.
Do connection request templates hurt your acceptance rate?
Only if you send the same generic line to everyone. The data shows a blank invite often gets accepted slightly more than a generic note, but a specific, relevant note roughly doubles the reply rate once people accept. A template is fine as a structure; what matters is filling it with a real, personal reason rather than a one-size-fits-all opener.
Should I include my pitch in the connection note?
No. The job of the 300-character note is to earn a reply after the person accepts, not to sell in the invitation. Leading with an ask is the fastest way to get ignored or marked as spam. Save the offer for your first message once you are connected and have their attention.
What is the best first line for a LinkedIn connection request?
The specific reason you are reaching out to that person in particular: a shared group, a mutual connection, an event you both attended, or something they recently posted or announced. Anything a human would recognize as genuinely about them beats a generic compliment or a mission statement about yourself.