Free tool
LinkedIn Connection Note Checker
Paste your note to count it against LinkedIn's connection note limit and flag openers that read as copy-and-paste. Keep it to 200 characters or fewer and it fits every account.
Key takeaways
- A LinkedIn connection note of 200 characters or fewer fits every account, even where LinkedIn allows up to 300.
- A good connection note gives one specific reason you're writing to this person and asks one small question, or nothing at all.
- Opening a connection note with something the person wrote, launched or said is what separates it from a copy-and-paste request.
- End a connection note with an easy next step or a simple sign-off, not a request for a call or a job.
Download all 6 templates (Word) Opens in Google Docs too.
Check your note
Nothing you type leaves your browser.
What makes a connection note work?
A good note gives one reason you’re writing to this person and asks one small question. That’s it. A stranger decides in a few seconds whether to accept, so the note should be about them, not you. If cold messages make you hesitate, that’s common, and a short, specific note is far less awkward to send than it feels.
- Open with something specific to them: a post they wrote, a launch their team ran, a talk they gave.
- Say who you are in a few words, only as it relates to why you’re writing.
- Ask something easy to answer, or ask nothing at all. “Would you be open to a quick question about the team?” is easier than “Can we get on a call?”
- Skip the resume. If they accept, you can say more in a message.
How should you end a connection note?
End with one easy next step or a friendly sign-off, never a big ask. The person should be able to accept without feeling they owe you a call.
| Instead of | Try |
|---|---|
| “Can we hop on a call this week?” | “Would you be open to one quick question?” |
| “Please let me know about any openings.” | “Happy to share more if useful.” |
| “Looking forward to your reply!” | “Either way, I’d be glad to stay in touch.” |
| “Can you refer me?” | Ask in a message once you’re connected; our referral guide has the wording. |
How long can a LinkedIn connection note be?
Keep it to 200 characters or fewer. LinkedIn has allowed up to 300 on some accounts, but many now stop at 200, and free accounts can only add a note to a few requests each month. LinkedIn changes these rules from time to time, so if the box stops you sooner, trust the box.
LinkedIn connection note examples
Replace everything in [brackets], then read it once in your head as if you were saying it. Change any phrase you’d never use, and keep the bit of warmth or humor that sounds like you; people accept requests from people, not templates.
To a hiring manager, after applying:
Hi [Name], I applied for the [Role] role on your team. Your post on [specific thing they wrote or launched] is why: I did something similar at [Company], [one result]. Happy to share more if useful.
To someone on the team you’d join:
Hi [Name], I'm interviewing for [Role] at [Company] and saw you lead [their area]. Would you be open to one question about how the team works with [another team]?
To a recruiter at a company you’re targeting:
Hi [Name], I'm a [your title] focused on [specialty] and I'd love to be on your radar for [team or role type] at [Company]. Happy to share my background if helpful.
After meeting at an event or webinar:
Hi [Name], I enjoyed your point on [topic] at [event] today. I'm working on something similar at [Company] and would be glad to stay in touch.
To someone from your school or a former employer:
Hi [Name], fellow [school or company] alum here. I'm exploring [area] roles and admired your move into [their role]. Would you be open to one question about it?
After an interview:
Hi [Name], thanks for the conversation today about [topic]. I enjoyed hearing how the team is approaching [their plan]. I'd like to stay in touch whatever happens with the role.
FAQ
Should I always add a note to a LinkedIn connection request?
When you’re reaching out to someone you don’t know, yes. A note with a clear reason is far more likely to be accepted than a blank request.
What should I write in a connection request to a recruiter?
Say what you do in a few words, the kind of role you want at their company, and leave it open: “Happy to share my background if helpful.” Our guide on how to message a recruiter on LinkedIn covers the longer message once you’re connected.
Is it OK to connect with an interviewer on LinkedIn?
After the interview, yes. Send your thank-you email first; the connection request can follow.
Does the checker store my note?
No. It runs in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere.