How to Start a Conversation with a Recruiter on LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is an evolutionary platform in the business field, it really did change the way people used to find a job, you remember the newspaper job adverts and the flyers, right? Well, I do and I’ve gotta tell you, I found my first job as a typist in a small company from the newspaper advertisements.

But thankfully right now, everything has changed, you don’t have to wait for recruiters to publish a job advertisement in newspapers, all you need is an account and knowing how to start a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn.

You know how important the first moves are in everyone’s life. They had this very high importance during human history, from the first move in politics and wars to the very first impression when you are trying to impress someone at a party.

That is why it is very important to know how to approach a recruiter on LinkedIn to make them notice you. So I decided to introduce you to some very important strategies and give you some samples of how to message recruiters on LinkedIn. If you are going to approach an employer on LinkedIn and don’t know how to do it, read this article to the end.

To start a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn, first research the recruiter's background and the types of positions they are hiring for to make sure you are a good fit for their needs. Then, personalize your approach by sending a connection request or a message that highlights your qualifications and interest in their opportunities. Be professional, concise, and courteous in your communication, and avoid sending generic or spammy messages that may turn off the recruiter.

How to start a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn?

First things first, you need to start with optimizing your profile. This section is the window of your store, you know how important it is, right? Forget about that “beauty must be in the eyes of the beholder” philosophy.

We all choose a store with a tidy and professionally arranged store window over one with a messy and sloppy showcase. Doesn’t matter even if they have the best quality of products or services, they still will be considered unprofessional, at least at first sight; and the first look defines more than enough for a recruiter to decide whether they want to respond to you or not.

So take a professional picture and upload it as your profile photo. Pictures are mostly the first thing that makes recruiters take a look at your profile, they see it even before the title and name.

Choose a picture that shows your face, the one that you look like a professional, it is best to select a simple background and it is suggested to smile in your photo, for a friendly picture is so much more attractive than one that looks like it was taken at a police station. So smile!

Take care of that headline, could you? I mean, yeah photos are very important but your headline is the key that lets the recruiters decide to respond to your message or not.

We do not choose random people for a job vacancy, do we? You can tell what they do, and what you achieved during your years of experience, add an expert/specialist to the title if you have been working in a field for some years, and use creative sentences, to try to avoid cliches.

The summary and the more critical sections. The summary is your initial introduction, the one that the recruiters mostly ask you to tell them during a job interview.

It is essential to take special care while you are writing it. Give a good and thorough overview of who you are, what your talents and skills are, a little bit about how you started your work, and what your goal is.

Be realistic in writing, no one believes a surreal story. Also, take special care for the two most important sections of the profile which attract most employers, experiences and education, be accurate while you are listing them, and please add a description about what your job exactly was and what achievements you had while doing it.

Activate the ‘Open to Work’ frame, only if you are not employed right now, because if you do this and are still working, it can cost you your current position before you find another job.

💡 Additional read: How to Turn Off Open to Work on LinkedIn?

The other thing you need to consider is publishing valuable content to add to your profile’s value. I am not saying that the recruiters will focus on your activities because they do not, but it weighs your profile and of course, demonstrates your knowledge. And for the last part about optimizing, please have an updated profile.

Find the recruiters and connect them. Why? Because they are not there to find you a job, but they have access to many vacancies that are not online yet and each one of them has this database that allows them to choose the best candidates for these opportunities. So search one of the following terms on the search box.

• recruiter
• Talent Specialist
• Headhunter
• Recruitment manager
• Human resources
• HR
• Recruitment specialist/expert

You can narrow down the results by using different filters available.

Now, once you choose one recruiter, you can either send them an InMails if you are a premium user, which is a very direct approach, or send them a connect request if you are using a basic account.

Doesn’t matter which one you use, the important thing is to elevate the response rate as much as possible. So, avoid those cliché texts and try to personalize them.

You can tell them how you found them and why you are messaging them, and talk a bit about the common things you might have, like attending the same university or working in a common field.

They are some very busy people and they receive thousands of messages and InMails every week, so it would be wise if you appreciate their time in your messages.

Also, consider that they owe you nothing, so offer them some valuable things instead of demanding, and ask for a mutual connection for a proper introduction.

Consider that these people know that you are seeking a job, so articulate that in your follow-up messages when they accept your connection request.

Thank them first for providing a chance for you to contact them, and tell them about the position you are looking for or that you like them to consider you for the desired position in the future.

I personally like the second approach, since there is no pressure in it, and lets them actually consider you in the future. Tell them why you fit the position based on your education, experiences, skills, and talents. It also can be a good idea to attach a resume to your follow-ups.

As mentioned, these people are so busy, so please keep it short and sweet, and don’t forget to end the message with a call to action sentence or maybe some contact information.

Sound professional and believe that the recruiters are no robots, so personalize the message and check and recheck it before sending it. Nothing can sabotage your impression more than grammar mistakes and spelling errors.

Now, if you consider all of these, it is only natural to expect to hear from the recruiters so keep the communication line open and be fast to respond to the messages they send you. It is such a loss when you do not respond to them in a short period, I mean, you can lose some very perfect opportunities, you know?

Now, let’s have a look at some samples, shall we? The first ones are from my own conversations I had with some recruiters years ago. And guess what? Some of them actually turned to my very dear friends.

Sample 1

First message: “Hi Angela Harris! My name is Mary Jalilibaleh. I am a SEO specialist at SPN, Inc. in Berlin. Just looking to connect with others in the local area. Hope you have a great day.

The follow-up response message: “Thanks for connecting Angela Harris. I saw you had SEO Management open with KPMG. After reading through the description, I believe my experience and skills would match well with what they are trying to reach in this position. Are you still accepting applicants for this job vacancy? I have attached my resume for reference. Thanks again for connecting and I hope you have a great day.”

Sample 2

Hi Johan Yu. My name is Sara Abraham and I’m a UX designer. If you have a second, I would love the chance to discuss how my code-developing skills and four years of experience might match the web mastering I’ve applied for (If You Already Applied). You can find my contact information down below, thanks for connecting and I hope you have a great day.

Related Questions & Answers

What to Say to a Recruiter on LinkedIn after Applying

When reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn after applying for a position, keep your message concise and professional. Start by expressing your interest in the role you applied for and briefly mention that you have already submitted your application. Highlight a few key qualifications or experiences that make you a strong fit for the position. Politely inquire about the status of your application and if there are any additional steps or information they need from you. Thank the recruiter for their time and consideration, and conclude your message with a professional sign-off. Remember to customize your message to reflect your genuine interest and to keep it polite and professional.

Message to Recruiter while Applying for Job

When sending a message to a recruiter while applying for a job, it’s important to be clear and concise. Begin by expressing your interest in the specific job position and mention where you came across the job posting. Briefly highlight your relevant skills and qualifications that make you a suitable candidate. Politely inquire about the application process and any additional information or documents they may require. Thank the recruiter for their time and consideration, and close the message with a professional and courteous closing. Remember to proofread your message for any errors before sending it.

How Do You Introduce Yourself to a Recruiter on Linkedin?

To connect with a recruiter on LinkedIn, start by researching the recruiter’s profile and the company they represent to tailor your message. A personalized introduction should highlight your professional background and interest in the company. 

Begin with a greeting to your new connection, then quickly state your purpose: “I am writing to express my interest in [position/company].” Mention how your skills and experiences align with the business goals, clarifying why you’re reaching out. Making a good first impression is crucial, so ensure your profile is up-to-date and reflects your professional capabilities. This direct approach shows the recruiter LinkedIn that you’ve done your homework and are serious about connecting.

How Do You Greet a Recruiter In Chat?

Greeting a recruiter in chat requires a balance between professionalism and approachability. Start with a simple, respectful salutation such as “Hello [Recruiter’s Name],” followed by a brief introduction of yourself. Being concise yet informative about who you are and what you seek is important. 

For instance, “My name is [Your Name], and I recently applied for [Position] at your company.” This initiates the conversation positively, demonstrating your enthusiasm and willingness to engage further. Remember, the goal is to establish a rapport and encourage ongoing communication, so keep the tone friendly yet professional.

What to Write to a Recruiter on Linkedin after Applying?

After applying for a position, follow up with the recruiters on LinkedIn to reinforce your interest. Start your message by mentioning the specific role you applied for and express your enthusiasm about the opportunity. Highlight briefly how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate. 

It’s also helpful to ask thoughtful questions about the role or the company’s culture, showing your genuine interest and initiative. This follow-up can set you apart from other candidates by demonstrating your proactive approach and strong communication skills.

How to Start a Conversation with a Recruiter on LinkedIn Sample?

Initiating a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn can be straightforward if approached correctly. Begin your message by introducing yourself and stating the reason for your outreach. 

For example: “Hello [Recruiter’s Name], I’m [Your Name], and I have a keen interest in [Company/Industry]. I noticed your extensive experience in recruiting for [Company/Industry] and would love to learn more about potential opportunities.” 

This approach not only demonstrates your interest in the company but also shows respect for the recruiter’s expertise. It’s an effective way to engage in a meaningful conversation about potential career opportunities.

Should I Message a Recruiter on Linkedin After Applying?

Yes, messaging a recruiter on LinkedIn after applying can be beneficial. It allows you to highlight your application and show genuine interest in the role and the company. When crafting your message, be succinct and focus on why you are a great fit for the position. 

Mention any specific skills or experiences that align with the job description and how you can contribute to the company’s success. This proactive communication can help you stand out among other candidates and potentially lead to further discussion about your application.

How to Ask For a Job on LinkedIn Message?

Asking for a job on LinkedIn requires tact and professionalism. Begin your message by expressing your admiration for the company and the work they do. Briefly introduce yourself, focusing on your relevant skills and experiences. Then, express your interest in exploring employment opportunities, being specific about the type of role you’re seeking and why you believe you would be a valuable addition to their team. 

Personalizing your message is essential, showing that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company. Conclude by thanking the recruiter for their time and expressing your hope for a conversation. Don’t forget to click the “send” button ☺ you can also send emails for that. 

What to Message a Recruiter on Linkedin after Applying?

After submitting your application, reach out to the recruiter on LinkedIn with a concise and focused message. Start by stating that you’ve applied for the position and express your strong interest in the role. Briefly highlight your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. 

This is an opportunity to emphasize your enthusiasm for the opportunity and the company. By taking the initiative to follow up, you demonstrate your proactive approach. This keen interest in the role potentially prompts the recruiter to take a closer look at your application.

LinkedIn Reach Out Message Sample

Crafting a LinkedIn message to a recruiter should be concise and to the point. Start with a polite greeting and introduce yourself. Mention how you came across their profile and express your interest in the company and any specific positions. 

Highlight your relevant experience and skills briefly and express your desire to contribute to the company’s success. Ask if they would be open to discussing potential opportunities or providing advice on how to stand out as a candidate. Always thank them for their time and consideration, leaving the conversation open for future communication. This approach shows professionalism and respect for the recruiter’s time, making a positive impression.

How to Message a Recruiter?

When messaging a recruiter, start with a polite and professional greeting, followed by a brief introduction of yourself. Clearly state your purpose for reaching out, such as expressing interest in a specific position or inquiring about career opportunities within their company. Highlight your relevant experience and skills and how they align with the company’s needs.

Be specific about what attracts you to the company and the role. Close your message by thanking the recruiter for their time and expressing your hope for further discussion. This structured and respectful approach ensures your message is clear and demonstrates your genuine interest in the opportunity.

Conclusion

LinkedIn is an all-in-one social platform and is known to be the best and fastest way to find a proper job. Having a boosted-up connection network is the key to many things on LinkedIn. I think it is logical that having some recruiters among your connections would be a perfect strategy in job hunting. So you need to know how to start a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn. Use the tips I just gave you to start a perfect relationship with some recruiters.

FAQ

How do you start a conversation with a recruiter?

Starting a conversation with a recruiter on LinkedIn can be a valuable step in your job search. Here’s a simple way to initiate a conversation:

1. Send a Personalized Connection Request: Begin by sending a connection request to the recruiter. Craft a brief but friendly message explaining your interest in connecting. For example, “Hello [Recruiter’s Name], I came across your profile and was impressed by your work in [Industry/Company]. I’d like to connect with you to learn more and explore potential opportunities.”
2. Wait for Acceptance: Once the recruiter accepts your request, give it a little time. They may review your profile before responding.
3. Send a Follow-up Message: After your connection request is accepted or if the recruiter reaches out to you first, follow up with a polite message expressing your interest. Mention your background briefly and your enthusiasm for potential opportunities. For instance, “Thank you for connecting, [Recruiter’s Name]. I’m excited to connect with someone in [Industry] and would love to explore any opportunities that match my skills and interests.”
4. Engage Actively: If the conversation progresses positively, maintain an active and professional dialogue. Be responsive, ask questions, and express your eagerness to learn more about the roles they have available.

Remember to keep your messages concise, respectful, and professional throughout your interaction with the recruiter. Building a good rapport can significantly enhance your job search efforts.

What do you say to a LinkedIn recruiter?

When reaching out to a LinkedIn recruiter, it’s crucial to make a strong first impression. Here’s a concise and effective message:

“Hello [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I was intrigued by the opportunities at [Company Name] and your expertise in [Industry]. As an experienced [Your Profession], I believe my skills in [mention a key skill or experience] align well with your team’s needs. I’d love to explore how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s success. Please let me know the best time for a conversation.

Thank you for your time.

Best regards, [Your Name]”

This message introduces yourself, shows appreciation for their expertise, highlights your relevant skills, and expresses your interest in exploring opportunities. It’s concise and respectful, making a recruiter more likely to engage with you.

What should I message a recruiter on LinkedIn example?

Certainly, here’s an example of what you could message a recruiter on LinkedIn:

“Hello [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I came across your profile and was impressed by your work in [Industry/Company]. As a passionate [Your Profession] with [X years of experience], I’m excited about the opportunities [Company Name] offers. I’d love to connect and explore potential roles where I can contribute to your team’s success.

Looking forward to connecting and learning more.

Best regards, [Your Name]”

This message is concise, and respectful, and expresses your interest in connecting and exploring job opportunities. It’s important to customize it to your specific situation and the recruiter’s profile for the best results.

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