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LinkedIn Outreach Message Templates for Contacting Candidates


Siddhartha Gunti

May 07, 2025


Connecting with potential candidates on LinkedIn can be a game-changer for recruiters. Crafting the perfect outreach message is key to making a memorable first impression. Whether you're reaching out to an INFP Mediator or an ESTP Entrepreneur, tailoring your message is crucial.

In this post, we provide five effective LinkedIn outreach templates designed to help recruiters engage with candidates. From the 'Quick Intro' to the 'Value Proposition' template, these strategies will assist in establishing meaningful connections.

Table of contents

Crafting a Professional LinkedIn Outreach Message
The 'Quick Intro' Template
The 'Personalized Compliment' Template
The 'Common Connection' Template
The 'Value Proposition' Template
The 'Question-Based' Template
The 'Urgency and Exclusivity' Template
Download LinkedIn Outreach Message Template for Contacting Candidatess in multiple formats
Wrapping Up

Crafting a Professional LinkedIn Outreach Message

Creating a professional LinkedIn outreach message is essential to connect effectively with candidates. A well-structured message can make a significant difference in attracting talent. Understanding the components of a professional message is crucial for recruiters looking to enhance their candidate experience.

Start with a clear subject line that captures attention without being overly promotional. This is the first impression and sets the tone for your message. Keep it concise and relevant to the candidate's background.

Begin your message with a personalized greeting, addressing the candidate by name. This simple touch shows respect and can increase engagement. It demonstrates that the message is tailored specifically for them.

Introduce yourself and your company briefly, highlighting what makes your organization unique. This helps build credibility and piques the candidate's interest. Be sure to mention any notable achievements or company values that align with the candidate's potential interests.

Clearly state the purpose of your message, whether it's an invitation to discuss an opportunity or to connect for future possibilities. Be direct and respectful of the candidate's time. Offer specific details about the role or opportunity to provide clarity.

Conclude with a call to action, inviting the candidate to respond or schedule a time for further discussion. Keep it open-ended to encourage a response. Express appreciation for their time and consideration.

The 'Quick Intro' Template

This template is perfect for when you want to quickly gauge a candidate's interest. It’s short, sweet, and gets straight to the point, respecting their time.

Subject: Exciting Opportunity Awaits!

Hi [Candidate's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I'm [Your Name], a recruiter at [Your Company]. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience in [relevant field/industry].

We have an opening for a [Job Title] that I believe aligns well with your skills. Would you be open to a quick chat to learn more about this opportunity?

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best, [Your Name] [Your LinkedIn Profile] [Your Contact Information]

The 'Personalized Compliment' Template

Show candidates you've done your homework by highlighting something specific from their profile. This approach demonstrates genuine interest and makes your message stand out; learn more about candidate experience.

Subject: Connecting Regarding [Job Title] at [Company Name]

Hi [Candidate Name],

I came across your profile and was really impressed with [Specific accomplishment/skill from their profile, e.g., your work on the X project at Y company, your expertise in Z technology]. That's exactly the kind of experience we're looking for at [Company Name].

We're currently hiring for a [Job Title] role, and I think your background could be a great fit. The role focuses on [briefly mention 1-2 key responsibilities].

Would you be open to a brief chat to discuss this further?

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Title] [Company Name] [Link to Job Description (Optional)]

The 'Common Connection' Template

Leverage shared connections to build instant rapport. Mentioning a mutual contact can increase the likelihood of a response and establish trust.

Subject: Opportunity at [Company Name] - Connection with [Mutual Connection's Name]

Hi [Candidate Name],

I hope this message finds you well.

My name is [Your Name] and I'm a recruiter at [Company Name]. I came across your profile and was impressed with your experience in [Candidate's Area of Expertise].

I noticed we're both connected to [Mutual Connection's Name]. I actually worked with [Mutual Connection's Name] on [Project or Company] and they have only great things to say about the talent pool in this domain.

We're currently looking for a [Job Title] to join our team. The role involves [briefly mention 1-2 key responsibilities and a selling point].

Would you be open to a quick chat to discuss this further?

Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Title] [Company Name] [Your Contact Information]

The 'Value Proposition' Template

This template focuses on what the candidate will gain from the opportunity. Clearly articulate the benefits of the role and why they should consider it.

Subject: Exciting Opportunity Awaits You!

Hi [Candidate's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience in [relevant field/skill]. I believe you could be a great fit for an opportunity we have at [Company Name].

Here's what makes this role stand out:

  • Growth Opportunities: Be part of a team where your skills will be valued and your contributions recognized.
  • Innovative Environment: Work with cutting-edge technology and be at the forefront of industry advancements.
  • Supportive Culture: Join a team that encourages collaboration and continuous learning.
  • Competitive Compensation: We offer a package that reflects your skills and experience.

If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, I would love to discuss this opportunity further. Let me know if you're available for a quick chat.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Position] [Company Name] [Contact Information]

The 'Question-Based' Template

Start a conversation by asking a question related to their expertise or career goals. This encourages engagement and opens the door for further discussion.

Subject: Quick Question About Your Career Journey

Hi [Candidate's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience in [specific skill or field]. I have a quick question that I believe aligns with your expertise.

What has been the most rewarding project you've worked on in your career so far, and why?

I'm eager to learn more about your experiences and see if there might be an opportunity that aligns with your career goals. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Company]

The 'Urgency and Exclusivity' Template

Create a sense of urgency and exclusivity to pique the candidate's interest. This approach can be effective for recruiting passive candidates who might not be actively looking but are open to compelling opportunities.

Subject: Exclusive Opportunity: [Job Title] at [Company Name]

Hi [Candidate Name],

I hope this message finds you well.

My name is [Your Name] from Adaface, and I'm reaching out because I came across your profile and was incredibly impressed with your experience in [Candidate's Field/Skill].

We're currently working with [Company Name], a [Company Description - e.g., fast-growing startup, leading tech firm] to fill a [Job Title] role. This is a unique opportunity that isn't being widely advertised, and we're only considering a select group of candidates.

[Company Name] is looking for someone with your background to [ Briefly describe the impact the candidate can make in the role - 1-2 sentences].

Given your expertise, I wanted to give you a heads-up about this opportunity before it becomes more widely known. Would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat to discuss if this could be a good fit for you?

If not, no worries at all. Thanks for your time!

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Title] Adaface [Your Contact Information]

Download LinkedIn Outreach Message Template for Contacting Candidatess in multiple formats

Wrapping Up

Crafting effective LinkedIn outreach messages is a skill that can significantly boost your recruitment efforts. By using these templates and personalizing them to fit each candidate, you'll increase your chances of getting positive responses.

Remember, the key is to be genuine, concise, and provide value to the candidate. Keep refining your approach based on the responses you receive, and you'll soon master the art of LinkedIn outreach.

LinkedIn Outreach Message Template for Contacting Candidates FAQs

Why does every rejection email look the same?

Many recruiters use generic templates to save time, but this can make rejection emails feel impersonal. Personalizing emails with specific feedback can improve candidate experience.

Should you use AI to write your rejection emails?

AI can help draft emails quickly, but it's important to customize them to maintain a human touch. Tailoring messages ensures candidates feel valued and respected.

How can I make my LinkedIn outreach more effective?

Personalize your messages by referencing common connections or specific achievements. This shows genuine interest and increases the chances of a response.

What should I avoid in a LinkedIn outreach message?

Avoid generic and lengthy messages. Keep it concise and relevant to the candidate's profile to capture their attention quickly.

How often should I follow up on LinkedIn?

If you haven't received a response, consider following up after a week. A gentle reminder can prompt a candidate to engage without appearing too pushy.

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40 min tests.
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Accurate shortlisting.