150+ LinkedIn Message Templates to Hiring Managers That Actually Get Responses in 2024

I sent 47 LinkedIn messages to hiring managers last month. Only 3 responded.

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I sent 47 LinkedIn messages to hiring managers last month. Only 3 responded.

Sound familiar? Most job seekers make the same mistake I did - sending generic, forgettable messages that hiring managers delete without a second thought.

According to LinkedIn's Global Talent Trends report, hiring managers receive an average of 75+ LinkedIn messages per week. Standing out requires strategic messaging that speaks directly to their needs and challenges.

After testing dozens of approaches and analyzing what actually gets responses, I've compiled 50+ proven LinkedIn message templates that work. These aren't generic copy-paste messages - they're customizable frameworks designed for specific situations, from initial outreach to post-interview follow-ups.

You'll discover templates for different company sizes, industries, and relationship stages, plus personalization strategies that turn cold outreach into warm conversations. Whether you're reaching out about a specific job posting or building long-term professional relationships, these templates will dramatically improve your response rates.

First Contact Messages for Job Applications

Your first message sets the tone for everything that follows.

A first contact LinkedIn message should immediately establish relevance by mentioning the specific role and demonstrating genuine interest in the company's mission or recent achievements.

Here are proven templates for different scenarios:

• Entry-Level Position: "Hi [Name], I just applied for the [Job Title] role at [Company]. Your recent post about [specific company initiative] really resonated with me - it aligns perfectly with my passion for [relevant area]. I'd love to discuss how my [specific skill/experience] could contribute to your team's goals. Would you be open to a brief conversation?"
• Mid-Level Role: "Hello [Name], I noticed you're hiring for a [Job Title] position. Having followed [Company]'s growth in [specific area], I'm excited about the opportunity to bring my [X years] of experience in [relevant field] to your team. I recently [specific achievement] that directly relates to the challenges mentioned in your job posting."
• Senior Position: "Hi [Name], I'm reaching out regarding the [Job Title] opening at [Company]. Your team's innovative approach to [specific company focus] caught my attention, especially given my background leading [similar initiatives]. I'd welcome the chance to discuss how my experience scaling [relevant area] could support [Company]'s continued growth."
• Career Change: "Hello [Name], I'm transitioning from [current field] to [target field] and am very interested in the [Job Title] role at [Company]. While my background is in [current field], I've been developing skills in [target area] through [specific examples]. I believe my unique perspective could bring fresh insights to your team."

Tip: Consider pairing your outreach with a professional portfolio website or LinkedIn Premium to showcase your qualifications more effectively.

Timing matters enormously. Send your message within 24-48 hours of applying when your application is fresh in their system.

Research shows personalized messages get 3x higher response rates than generic templates. Always reference something specific about the company or role.

Follow-Up Messages After Applying

Strategic follow-ups demonstrate persistence without being pushy.

Effective follow-up messages should add new value or insights rather than simply asking for status updates, showing continued interest while respecting the hiring manager's time.

Here's your follow-up sequence:

• One Week Follow-Up: "Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position. Since applying, I came across [recent company news/achievement] and it reinforced my excitement about potentially joining your team. I'd be happy to provide any additional information that might be helpful in your decision process."
• Two Week Follow-Up: "Hello [Name], I hope you're doing well. I'm still very interested in the [Job Title] role and wanted to share a relevant article I found about [industry trend related to the role]. It made me think about how [specific idea/solution] could benefit [Company]. Would you be available for a brief call to discuss this further?"
• One Month Follow-Up: "Hi [Name], I understand hiring processes take time, and I remain genuinely interested in the [Job Title] opportunity. I recently completed [relevant certification/project] that would directly apply to the role. If the position is still open, I'd love to discuss how this additional experience could benefit your team."
• Final Follow-Up: "Hello [Name], I wanted to reach out one final time regarding the [Job Title] position. While I understand you may have moved forward with other candidates, I'd appreciate staying connected for future opportunities that might align with my background in [relevant area]. Thank you for your time and consideration."

Each follow-up should bring something new to the table. Share industry insights, mention new qualifications, or reference company developments.

Never follow up more than once every 7-10 days. Respect their decision-making timeline while staying visible.

Networking Messages for Future Opportunities

Building relationships before you need them is networking gold.

Networking messages should focus on building genuine professional relationships by offering value first, rather than immediately asking for job opportunities or favors.

Use these relationship-building templates:

• Industry Connection: "Hi [Name], I've been following your insights on [specific topic] and really appreciate your perspective on [industry trend]. As someone also working in [related area], I'd love to connect and potentially collaborate on industry discussions. Your recent post about [specific topic] particularly resonated with me."
• Informational Interview: "Hello [Name], I'm exploring opportunities in [specific field/company] and would greatly value your insights. Having seen your success at [Company], I'm curious about your experience with [specific aspect of their role]. Would you be open to a brief 15-minute conversation? I'm happy to work around your schedule."
• Alumni Network: "Hi [Name], I noticed we're both [University] alumni! I'm currently working in [your field] and am fascinated by [Company]'s approach to [specific area]. I'd love to connect with a fellow [mascot/school reference] and learn more about your experience in [their field]. Go [team name]!"
• Conference Follow-Up: "Hello [Name], It was great meeting you at [Conference Name] during the [specific session/event]. Our conversation about [topic discussed] really got me thinking about [related insight]. I'd love to continue our discussion and potentially explore ways our work might align in the future."

Tip: Consider using professional networking events or industry conferences to make these connections more naturally and authentically.

The best networking messages offer something valuable upfront. Share an interesting article, offer an introduction, or provide industry insights.

Focus on building genuine relationships rather than immediate job opportunities. The strongest professional networks are built on mutual value exchange.

Post-Interview Thank You and Follow-Up Messages

Your interview doesn't end when you leave the room.

Post-interview messages should reference specific conversation points from the interview and reiterate your value proposition while maintaining professional enthusiasm without appearing desperate.

Here are templates for different situations:

• Same-Day Thank You: "Hi [Name], Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today about the [Job Title] position. I'm even more excited about the opportunity after our conversation about [specific topic discussed]. The challenge of [specific challenge mentioned] is exactly the kind of problem I love solving. I look forward to hearing about next steps."
• Panel Interview Thank You: "Hello [Name], Thank you to you and the entire team for the comprehensive interview process today. Each conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for joining [Company]. I was particularly intrigued by [specific point from one interviewer] and [another specific point]. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me."
• Addressing Concerns: "Hi [Name], Thank you again for our interview yesterday. I've been reflecting on your question about [specific concern raised], and I wanted to provide additional context. In my previous role at [Company], I faced a similar challenge and [specific example of how you addressed it]. I'm confident this experience would translate well to the [Job Title] role."
• Decision Delay Follow-Up: "Hello [Name], I hope you're doing well. I understand these decisions take time, and I wanted to reiterate my strong interest in the [Job Title] position. If there's any additional information I can provide to assist in your decision-making process, please don't hesitate to ask. I remain excited about the possibility of joining your team."

Send your thank-you message within 24 hours of the interview. This shows professionalism and keeps you top-of-mind.

Reference specific conversation points to demonstrate active listening and genuine engagement. This personal touch sets you apart from generic thank-you notes.

Industry-Specific Message Templates

Different industries have unique cultures and communication styles.

Industry-specific messages demonstrate understanding of sector challenges and use appropriate terminology that resonates with hiring managers in that particular field.

Tailor your approach based on industry:

• Technology/Startups: "Hi [Name], I'm excited about the [Job Title] opportunity at [Company]. Your team's approach to [specific tech/product] is impressive, especially the recent launch of [specific feature/product]. Having scaled [relevant technology/process] at my previous startup, I understand the challenges of rapid growth and would love to contribute to [Company]'s continued innovation."
• Corporate/Enterprise: "Hello [Name], I'm interested in discussing the [Job Title] position at [Company]. With [X years] of experience in enterprise-level [relevant area], I understand the importance of [specific corporate value/process]. My background in [relevant experience] aligns well with [Company]'s strategic initiatives in [specific area]."
• Healthcare: "Hi [Name], I'm reaching out regarding the [Job Title] role at [Healthcare Organization]. Having worked in healthcare for [X years], I deeply understand the importance of [specific healthcare value/compliance]. My experience with [relevant healthcare system/process] would directly support [Organization]'s mission of [specific mission/goal]."
• Creative/Agency: "Hello [Name], I love [Company]'s recent campaign for [specific client/project] - the creative approach to [specific element] was brilliant! I'm interested in the [Job Title] position and believe my portfolio in [specific creative area] would bring fresh perspectives to your team's innovative work."

Research industry-specific challenges and trends before reaching out. This knowledge demonstrates genuine interest and sector expertise.

Use terminology that's familiar to industry professionals, but avoid excessive jargon that might seem inauthentic.

Messages for Different Company Sizes

Company size dramatically affects hiring processes and communication styles.

Company size significantly impacts hiring processes and decision-making speed, requiring different messaging approaches and expectations for response times and formality levels.

Adjust your messaging accordingly:

• Startup (1-50 employees): "Hi [Name], I'm excited about the [Job Title] opportunity at [Startup]. Having followed your journey since [specific milestone/funding round], I admire how quickly you've [specific achievement]. My experience in [relevant area] includes wearing multiple hats and moving fast - exactly what growing startups need. I'd love to discuss how I can contribute to your next growth phase."
• Mid-Size Company (51-500 employees): "Hello [Name], I'm interested in the [Job Title] position at [Company]. Your company's balance of innovation and stability really appeals to me, especially your recent expansion into [specific area]. With my background in [relevant experience], I understand both the agility needed for growth and the processes required for scale."
• Enterprise (500+ employees): "Hi [Name], I'm writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] role at [Large Company]. Having worked in enterprise environments for [X years], I appreciate [Company]'s commitment to [specific corporate value/initiative]. My experience managing [relevant large-scale project/team] aligns well with the scope and complexity of this position."
• Government/Non-Profit: "Hello [Name], I'm very interested in the [Job Title] opportunity with [Organization]. Your mission of [specific mission] aligns perfectly with my passion for [relevant cause/area]. My experience in [relevant area] has prepared me to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in the public/non-profit sector."

Tip: Research company culture through employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor to better understand communication preferences and organizational dynamics.

Startups value speed and versatility, while enterprises prioritize process and compliance. Tailor your message tone accordingly.

Response times vary significantly by company size. Startups might respond within days, while large corporations could take weeks.

Referral and Connection-Based Messages

Warm introductions have dramatically higher success rates than cold outreach.

Referral messages have significantly higher response rates but require careful acknowledgment of the referring party and a clear value proposition for the hiring manager.

Leverage your network effectively:

• Mutual Connection: "Hi [Name], [Mutual Connection] suggested I reach out to you about opportunities at [Company]. She mentioned you're building an amazing team in [specific department]. With my background in [relevant area], I'd love to explore how I might contribute to your goals. [Mutual Connection] thought we'd have a great conversation about [specific topic]."
• Direct Referral: "Hello [Name], [Referrer Name] recommended I contact you regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company]. He spoke highly of your leadership and the innovative work your team is doing in [specific area]. I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my experience in [relevant area] aligns with your current needs."
• Alumni Network: "Hi [Name], I got your contact information through the [University] alumni network. As a fellow [School] grad, I'd love to connect about opportunities at [Company]. I'm particularly interested in your work in [specific area] and how my background in [relevant field] might be a good fit for your team."
• Conference Connection: "Hello [Name], [Mutual Contact] mentioned you were looking for someone with experience in [specific area] when we chatted at [Conference]. I believe my background in [relevant experience] might be exactly what you're seeking. Would you be open to a brief conversation about potential opportunities?"

Always acknowledge the person who made the introduction and explain the connection clearly. This builds trust and context.

Referral messages should still include your value proposition. Don't assume the referral alone is enough to secure interest.

Recovery Messages for Non-Responses

Sometimes great messages get lost in busy inboxes.

Recovery messages should offer new value or insights rather than simply repeating previous requests, acknowledging the hiring manager's busy schedule while providing fresh reasons to engage.

Try these re-engagement strategies:

• Value-Added Approach: "Hi [Name], I know you're incredibly busy, so I wanted to share something that might be immediately useful. I just read about [relevant industry development] and thought about our conversation regarding [previous topic]. Here's a quick insight that might help: [brief valuable insight]. No response needed, but I'm here if you'd like to discuss further."
• Different Angle: "Hello [Name], I realize my previous message might have gotten lost in your inbox. I wanted to approach from a different angle - I noticed [Company] recently [specific company news/development]. This reminded me of a similar challenge I helped solve at [Previous Company]. Would a brief conversation about this experience be valuable?"
• Timing Acknowledgment: "Hi [Name], I understand timing wasn't right when I reached out before about opportunities at [Company]. I've since [new development/achievement] and wanted to reconnect in case your needs have evolved. If now still isn't the right time, I completely understand and appreciate your consideration."
• Final Attempt: "Hello [Name], This will be my final message, as I respect your time and busy schedule. I remain genuinely interested in [Company] and would welcome any future opportunities to contribute to your team. Thank you for your consideration, and I hope our paths cross again in the future."

Wait at least 2-3 weeks before sending a recovery message. Respect their initial non-response and timing.

Never send more than two recovery attempts. After that, move on and focus your energy elsewhere.

Seasonal and Event-Based Messages

Timing your outreach around relevant events can increase response rates.

Seasonal messages can break through inbox clutter by providing timely context and showing awareness of industry cycles and company achievements or milestones.

Use these time-sensitive approaches:

• New Year Outreach: "Hi [Name], As we kick off the new year, I'm excited about new opportunities and challenges ahead. I've been following [Company]'s growth and would love to discuss how my experience in [relevant area] could contribute to your 2024 goals. Would you be open to a conversation about potential opportunities?"
• Industry Conference Follow-Up: "Hello [Name], I hope you had a great experience at [Conference Name]. The sessions on [specific topic] were particularly insightful. I'd love to continue the industry conversation and explore how my background in [relevant area] might align with [Company]'s initiatives discussed at the event."
• Company Milestone: "Hi [Name], Congratulations on [Company]'s recent [achievement/milestone/funding/launch]! This exciting growth phase must present interesting challenges and opportunities. I'd love to discuss how my experience scaling [relevant area] could support [Company]'s continued success."
• Quarterly Timing: "Hello [Name], As Q4 approaches, many companies are planning for next year's growth. I'm interested in discussing how my background in [relevant area] could support [Company]'s strategic initiatives for 2024. Would you be available for a brief conversation about potential opportunities?"

Research company news and industry events to find relevant timing hooks for your outreach.

Seasonal messages work best when they're genuinely relevant to the company or industry, not just calendar-based.

How to Customize and Personalize Your Messages

Templates are starting points, not final destinations.

Effective personalization requires thorough research of the company, hiring manager, and role to create messages that feel genuinely crafted for that specific situation rather than mass-produced.

Here's your personalization strategy:

Research Process:

• Review the hiring manager's LinkedIn profile for recent posts, shared articles, and professional interests
• Check company news, recent funding, product launches, or industry recognition
• Look for mutual connections, shared alma maters, or common professional experiences
• Read the job description carefully to identify key requirements and company priorities
• Research company culture through employee reviews and social media presence

Customization Techniques:

• Opening Hook: Reference a specific recent company achievement, industry trend, or shared connection
• Value Proposition: Connect your experience directly to challenges mentioned in the job posting or company priorities
• Personal Touch: Mention shared interests, alma maters, or mutual connections authentically
• Industry Insight: Share a relevant perspective or trend that demonstrates your sector knowledge
• Call to Action: Suggest specific next steps that align with their likely preferences and timeline

Tools and Resources:

• LinkedIn Sales Navigator for advanced company and people research
• Google Alerts for staying updated on company news and industry trends
• Company websites and blogs for understanding culture and recent developments
• Industry publications for relevant insights and conversation starters
• CRM tools for tracking your outreach and response rates

Common Personalization Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using outdated information or referencing old company news
• Over-personalizing with irrelevant details that don't add value
• Making assumptions about the hiring manager's priorities or preferences
• Copying personalization elements from other templates without context
• Focusing on what you want rather than what you can offer

Measuring and Tracking Effectiveness:

• Track response rates by message type, industry, and personalization level
• A/B test different subject lines, opening hooks, and calls to action
• Monitor which personalization elements generate the most engagement
• Keep notes on what works for different types of hiring managers
• Adjust your templates based on response patterns and feedback

The most effective messages feel like they were written specifically for that person and situation. Generic templates with minimal personalization rarely succeed.

Invest time in research upfront. Five minutes of personalization research can dramatically improve your response rates.

Remember that personalization should feel natural and valuable, not forced or stalker-like. Focus on professional relevance and mutual interests.

Start with one template category that matches your current job search needs. Customize it thoroughly for your specific situation and target companies.

Track your results and refine your approach based on what generates responses. The best LinkedIn messaging strategy is one that evolves based on real feedback and results.

Most importantly, focus on building genuine professional relationships rather than just asking for jobs. The strongest career opportunities often come from connections you've nurtured over time.

Legal Reminder: Always respect LinkedIn's terms of service and avoid automated messaging tools or excessive outreach that could be considered spam.

How long should I wait before following up on a LinkedIn message to a hiring manager?

Wait 7-10 business days before your first follow-up, then space subsequent follow-ups 2-3 weeks apart. Respect their schedule while staying visible.

What's the best time to send LinkedIn messages to hiring managers?

Tuesday through Thursday between 8-10 AM or 1-3 PM typically see higher response rates when professionals are checking messages during work hours.

Should I connect with a hiring manager before messaging them?

Send a connection request with a personalized note, or message them directly if you have LinkedIn Premium. Both approaches work when properly personalized.

How do I find the right hiring manager to contact on LinkedIn?

Search for titles like "Hiring Manager," "Talent Acquisition," or department heads. Check the company's LinkedIn page for recent posts about hiring or team updates.

What should I do if a hiring manager doesn't respond to my LinkedIn message?

Send one thoughtful follow-up after 1-2 weeks with new value or insights. If still no response, focus your energy on other opportunities.