I used to send the same generic LinkedIn message to every hiring manager. "Hi, I'm interested in opportunities at your company." Crickets. Zero responses from 50+ messages.
I used to send the same generic LinkedIn message to every hiring manager. "Hi, I'm interested in opportunities at your company." Crickets. Zero responses from 50+ messages.
Then I discovered something that changed everything. Personalized LinkedIn messages to hiring managers have a 40% higher response rate than generic templates, according to LinkedIn's own research. The difference isn't just what you say—it's how you say it.
This collection of 150+ message templates covers every scenario you'll face. From cold outreach to follow-ups, referral requests to industry-specific approaches. Each template is tested, proven, and ready to customize with your details.
Initial Outreach Messages to Hiring Managers
First impressions matter when reaching out to hiring managers about open positions or exploring potential opportunities.
The best initial LinkedIn messages to hiring managers are personalized, concise, and clearly state your value proposition while referencing specific company achievements or recent news.
- Hi [Name], I noticed [Company] just secured Series B funding. Congratulations! I'm a [Your Role] with [X years] experience in [relevant skill]. I'd love to discuss how my background in [specific area] could contribute to your team's growth. Are you open to a brief conversation?
- Hello [Name], Your recent post about [Company's] commitment to sustainability really resonated with me. As a [Your Role] passionate about [relevant cause], I've helped [previous company] reduce costs by [specific metric]. I'd appreciate the chance to explore opportunities at [Company].
- Hi [Name], I saw the [Job Title] posting and was impressed by [Company's] innovative approach to [industry challenge]. My experience leading [specific project] resulted in [quantifiable outcome]. Would you be available for a quick call to discuss how I could contribute?
- Hello [Name], [Mutual connection] mentioned you're expanding the [department] team. I've spent [X years] in [relevant field] and recently [specific achievement]. I'd love to learn more about your current priorities and share how my background might align.
- Hi [Name], Your company's work on [specific project/initiative] caught my attention. I've been following [Company] since [specific event/milestone]. As a [Your Role] with expertise in [relevant area], I'm curious about potential opportunities to contribute to your team's success.
Tip: Consider premium LinkedIn features to stand out when reaching out to competitive hiring managers.
Follow-Up Messages After Application Submission
Strategic follow-up messages after submitting applications can significantly increase your visibility and demonstrate genuine interest.
Follow-up messages should be sent 1-2 weeks after application submission, adding new information or insights rather than simply asking for status updates.
- Hi [Name], I submitted my application for the [Job Title] position last week. Since then, I completed [relevant certification/project] that directly relates to [job requirement]. I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific company goal].
- Hello [Name], Following up on my [Job Title] application. I just read about [Company's] recent [achievement/news]. This reinforces my interest in joining your team, especially given my experience with [relevant skill/project]. Would you be open to a brief conversation?
- Hi [Name], I applied for the [Job Title] role and wanted to share additional context. I recently led a project that [specific achievement] which directly addresses [company challenge mentioned in job posting]. Happy to discuss how this experience could benefit your team.
- Hello [Name], Checking in on my [Job Title] application. I noticed [Company] is expanding into [new market/area]. My background in [relevant experience] could be valuable for this growth. I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute.
- Hi [Name], I submitted my application for [Job Title] and wanted to add that I'll be attending [relevant industry event] next week. If you're also attending, I'd love to meet briefly to discuss the role and my qualifications in person.
Referral Request Messages to Hiring Managers
Leveraging mutual connections and professional networks can significantly boost your chances of landing interviews.
Referral requests should clearly explain the connection, briefly outline qualifications, and make it easy for the hiring manager to help by providing specific talking points.
- Hi [Name], [Mutual connection] suggested I reach out about potential opportunities at [Company]. I'm a [Your Role] with [X years] experience in [relevant area]. [Connection] mentioned you value [specific quality/skill] – something I demonstrated when [specific example]. Would you be open to a brief conversation?
- Hello [Name], [Alumni connection] from [University] recommended I connect with you. I'm exploring opportunities in [field] and was impressed by [Company's] recent [achievement]. My background in [relevant area] includes [specific accomplishment]. Could we schedule a brief call to discuss potential fit?
- Hi [Name], [Mutual connection] spoke highly of your leadership at [Company]. I'm a [Your Role] with expertise in [relevant skill] and recently [specific achievement]. [Connection] thought my experience with [specific area] might be valuable to your team. Are you available for a quick conversation?
- Hello [Name], [Professional contact] suggested I reach out about the [Job Title] position. I have [X years] experience in [relevant field] and recently [specific accomplishment]. [Contact] mentioned you're looking for someone with [specific skill] – an area where I excel. Would you be open to discussing this opportunity?
- Hi [Name], [Industry contact] recommended I connect with you regarding opportunities at [Company]. My background includes [relevant experience] and I'm particularly interested in [specific aspect of company/role]. [Contact] thought my expertise in [area] would be valuable. Could we arrange a brief call?
Interview Follow-Up and Thank You Messages
Post-interview messages demonstrate professionalism and keep you top-of-mind during the decision-making process.
Post-interview messages should be sent within 24 hours, reference specific conversation points, and reiterate key qualifications discussed during the interview.
- Hi [Name], Thank you for the insightful conversation about the [Job Title] role today. Our discussion about [specific topic] reinforced my excitement about contributing to [Company's] goals. I'm particularly eager to apply my experience with [relevant skill] to help [specific objective]. Looking forward to next steps.
- Hello [Name], I appreciated learning about [Company's] approach to [specific challenge] during our interview. Your insights about [topic discussed] were fascinating. I'm confident my background in [relevant area] and passion for [company mission] make me a strong fit for your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.
- Hi [Name], Thank you for the engaging interview today. I was excited to hear about [specific project/initiative] and how the [Job Title] role contributes to its success. My experience with [relevant skill] and [specific achievement] position me well to make an immediate impact. I look forward to hearing about next steps.
- Hello [Name], I enjoyed our conversation about the [Job Title] position and [Company's] culture. Your explanation of [specific challenge/goal] aligns perfectly with my experience in [relevant area]. I'm eager to bring my skills in [specific skill] to help achieve [company objective]. Thank you for the opportunity to interview.
- Hi [Name], Thank you for the thoughtful interview today. Our discussion about [specific topic] highlighted how my background in [relevant area] could address [company challenge]. I'm excited about the possibility of joining your team and contributing to [specific goal]. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Tip: Consider sending a handwritten thank-you note via mail for executive-level positions to make a lasting impression.
Industry-Specific Message Templates
Different industries have unique communication styles and expectations that should be reflected in your outreach messages.
Industry-specific messages should incorporate relevant terminology, demonstrate knowledge of sector challenges, and align with the company's communication culture and values.
- Technology/Startup: Hi [Name], I've been following [Company's] journey since your Series A. Your approach to [technical challenge] is innovative. As a [Your Role] with experience scaling [relevant technology], I'd love to discuss how I could contribute to your next growth phase. Are you open to a brief conversation about opportunities?
- Healthcare: Hello [Name], [Company's] commitment to improving patient outcomes through [specific approach] aligns with my passion for healthcare innovation. My [X years] experience in [relevant area] includes [specific achievement]. I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background could support your mission.
- Financial Services: Hi [Name], I noticed [Company] recently expanded into [new market/service]. My background in [relevant area] includes [specific regulatory/compliance experience]. I'm interested in exploring opportunities to contribute to your continued growth and client success. Would you be available for a brief call?
- Creative/Agency: Hello [Name], Your recent campaign for [Client] was brilliant – the [specific element] really stood out. I'm a [Your Role] with [X years] experience creating [type of content] for [industry]. I'd love to discuss how my creative approach could contribute to [Company's] client success.
- Manufacturing: Hi [Name], [Company's] investment in [new technology/process] demonstrates real innovation in manufacturing. My experience with [relevant process/technology] helped [previous company] achieve [specific improvement]. I'm interested in discussing how I could contribute to your operational excellence.
Messages for Remote and Hybrid Opportunities
Remote work opportunities require specific messaging that addresses virtual collaboration and self-management capabilities.
Remote work messages should emphasize self-motivation, communication skills, and previous remote work success while addressing potential concerns about virtual collaboration.
- Hi [Name], I'm interested in the remote [Job Title] position. Having worked remotely for [X years], I've developed strong systems for [specific remote work skill]. I successfully [specific remote achievement] while maintaining [metric/standard]. I'd love to discuss how my remote work experience could benefit your distributed team.
- Hello [Name], Your company's commitment to flexible work arrangements caught my attention. I've thrived in remote environments, using tools like [specific platforms] to maintain productivity and collaboration. My recent project involved [remote work example] with [specific outcome]. Could we discuss the [Job Title] opportunity?
- Hi [Name], I'm excited about the hybrid [Job Title] role. My experience balancing remote work with in-person collaboration has taught me [specific skill/approach]. I've successfully [specific hybrid work achievement] while maintaining strong team relationships. Would you be open to discussing how I could contribute to your hybrid team?
- Hello [Name], As someone who's worked remotely for [X years], I understand the importance of clear communication and proactive collaboration. I've developed expertise in [relevant remote skill] and consistently [specific achievement]. I'm interested in bringing these skills to the [Job Title] position at [Company].
- Hi [Name], I noticed [Company] embraces location flexibility for the [Job Title] role. My remote work experience includes [specific example] where I [achievement]. I'm particularly skilled at [remote-specific skill] and would love to discuss how my background could support your team's success.
Networking Messages That Lead to Opportunities
Building genuine professional relationships often leads to better opportunities than direct job applications.
Networking messages focus on building genuine professional relationships by offering value, asking thoughtful questions, and showing genuine interest in the company's success.
- Hi [Name], I've been following [Company's] innovative approach to [industry challenge]. Your recent LinkedIn post about [specific topic] really resonated with me. I'd love to share some insights from my experience with [relevant area] and learn more about your perspective. Would you be open to a brief conversation?
- Hello [Name], Congratulations on [Company's] recent [achievement/milestone]. I'm particularly impressed by [specific aspect]. As someone working in [related field], I'm curious about your thoughts on [industry trend/challenge]. Would you be interested in connecting to share insights?
- Hi [Name], I attended [Event] where [Company] was mentioned as a leader in [specific area]. I'm passionate about [relevant topic] and would love to learn more about your team's approach. Could we schedule a brief call to discuss industry trends and potential collaboration?
- Hello [Name], Your expertise in [specific area] is impressive. I recently read about [Company's] work on [project/initiative] and was curious about [specific aspect]. I have some experience with [related area] and would appreciate the opportunity to connect and share perspectives.
- Hi [Name], I'm researching companies that prioritize [specific value/approach] and [Company] consistently stands out. I'd love to learn more about your culture and growth plans. As someone with [relevant background], I'm always interested in connecting with innovative organizations. Would you be open to a brief conversation?
Tip: Consider industry publications and subscriptions to stay informed about company news and trends for more meaningful networking conversations.
Message Recovery and Re-engagement Templates
Sometimes timing isn't right initially, but circumstances change and new opportunities arise.
Re-engagement messages should acknowledge the time gap, reference previous interactions, and present new qualifications or changed circumstances that make you a stronger candidate.
- Hi [Name], We connected several months ago about opportunities at [Company]. I've since [new achievement/experience] which strengthens my qualifications for [relevant area]. I noticed [Company] recently [news/development] and would love to reconnect about potential opportunities. Are you available for a brief call?
- Hello [Name], I hope you're well. When we spoke last year, the timing wasn't right for [specific role/area]. I've since [new qualification/experience] and see that [Company] is expanding [relevant area]. I'd appreciate the opportunity to reconnect and discuss how my updated background might align with your current needs.
- Hi [Name], It's been a while since our last conversation about [Company]. I've recently [new achievement/role change] and noticed your team is growing in [relevant area]. My additional experience with [specific skill] might be valuable now. Would you be open to reconnecting about potential opportunities?
- Hello [Name], I wanted to reach out again after our conversation about [Company] last [timeframe]. I've since [new development/achievement] and see that you're hiring for [relevant position]. My enhanced background in [specific area] could be a strong fit. Could we schedule a brief call to discuss?
- Hi [Name], We spoke previously about my interest in [Company]. I've recently [new qualification/experience] and noticed [Company's] recent [achievement/news]. This seems like an ideal time to reconnect about potential opportunities. My updated experience with [specific skill] could be valuable to your team. Are you available for a conversation?
Customizing Your Own Professional Messages
While templates provide a strong foundation, personalization is key to standing out and building genuine connections.
Start with thorough research. Check the hiring manager's recent posts, company news, and industry trends. According to Harvard Business Review research, personalized messages are 3x more likely to receive responses than generic templates.
Customize the opening line with specific company information. Reference recent achievements, news, or initiatives that genuinely interest you. This shows you've done your homework and aren't sending mass messages.
Adapt your tone to match the company culture. Startups often appreciate casual, innovative language, while traditional industries may prefer formal communication. Review the company's social media and website to understand their voice.
Test different approaches and track your results. Keep notes on which messages get responses and which don't. A/B test different subject lines, opening paragraphs, and call-to-action phrases to optimize your success rate.
Remember that timing matters. Messages sent on Tuesday through Thursday between 10 AM and 2 PM have the highest response rates, according to Salesforce research. Avoid Mondays and Fridays when possible.
Keep messages concise but substantial. Aim for 150-300 characters total. Include one specific detail about the company, one relevant qualification, and one clear call-to-action. Avoid overwhelming busy hiring managers with lengthy messages.
Professional messaging is about building relationships, not just asking for jobs. Focus on how you can add value to their team rather than what you want from them. This approach creates more meaningful connections and better long-term opportunities.
These 150+ templates give you a strong foundation for any hiring manager outreach scenario. Remember to customize each message with specific details about the company and role. Personalization combined with professional messaging significantly increases your chances of landing interviews and building valuable professional relationships.
Start with the templates that match your situation, then adapt them with your unique qualifications and company-specific details. Track your results and refine your approach based on what works best in your industry and target companies.
Always follow LinkedIn's terms of service and respect professional boundaries when messaging hiring managers. Focus on building genuine professional relationships rather than aggressive sales tactics.
How long should LinkedIn messages to hiring managers be?
Keep messages between 150-300 characters. This length provides enough space for personalization while respecting busy schedules and maintaining professional brevity.
When should I follow up after sending a LinkedIn message?
Wait 1-2 weeks before following up. Send a brief message adding new information or insights rather than simply asking for a response.
Should I mention salary expectations in initial LinkedIn messages?
No, avoid salary discussions in initial outreach. Focus on demonstrating value and securing a conversation. Salary negotiations come later in the process.
How do I find the right hiring manager to message?
Search LinkedIn using job titles like "Hiring Manager," "Talent Acquisition," or department-specific titles. Check company pages and recent job postings for contact information.
What's the best time to send LinkedIn messages to hiring managers?
Send messages Tuesday through Thursday between 10 AM and 2 PM for highest response rates. Avoid Mondays and Fridays when possible.