How to invite someone to LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a great way to connect with co-workers and clients, as well as introduce yourself to other people within your industry. Building up a network on the site means you'll have an easy way to contact someone when you want advice, help or to call in a favour.

Default invitations

When sending a request to connect on LinkedIn, the default message is a very curt: "I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn." This type of message is fine with the people in your office or close friends, but if you're trying to connect with someone you've just met at an event, or not know so well or someone you only know about from online connections, a more personalised message is what you need.

Prospective client

If you want to connect with someone for business purposes, you need to give them a very clear reason to accept your request. It may be that you can solve a problem for their company or that you have advice to help them based on something in the news or written on their blog.

On the other hand, if it's someone you met at an event then a simple reminder about where you spoke and why you want to connect – perhaps to go further into a particular conversation – should be enough to jog their memory. Be sure not to wait too long after the event to connect.

Online stranger

There are times when you might want to connect with someone you've never met. It may be that they have succeeded in a similar industry, that they're a local business magnate or that they have a great blog. Simply explain to them how you know them and why you want to connect with them and, if you're attempting to get something from them, such as a guest post, it's important you're upfront about it.

Sell yourself

Your LinkedIn profile is a space where you can sell yourself, highlighting your successes and skills. Nearly all users will look over your profile before deciding whether to accept your invitation, so making sure you have an up-to-date profile that shows you as an attractive acquaintance is important if you want to grow your network.