In today’s highly competitive job market, LinkedIn is more than just an online résumé — it’s your professional community. With over 1 billion users worldwide, the platform offers opportunities not only to apply for jobs, but to connect, learn, and grow.
Yet, too many people make the same mistake: 👉 Sending cold messages asking for a job or a referral — without ever establishing a connection first.
Let’s talk about how to do better.
💬 Why Asking for a Job Right Away Doesn’t Work
Imagine meeting someone at a networking event and immediately saying, “Hi, I don’t know you, but can you help me get a job?” It feels awkward, rushed, and transactional.
The same logic applies online.
According to a 2023 LinkedIn Talent Solutions report, professionals are 4 times more likely to respond to a message that’s personalized and not solely focused on job seeking.
Networking isn’t about asking — it’s about connecting.
📚 Academic Insight: The Power of Weak Ties
In his groundbreaking 1973 study, Mark Granovetter introduced the concept of “The Strength of Weak Ties.” He showed that people are more likely to find job opportunities through acquaintances than close friends — because these “weak ties” connect you to new circles and hidden opportunities.
This is exactly what LinkedIn is designed for: ✔️ Broadening your reach ✔️ Tapping into professional communities ✔️ Creating meaningful conversations
🧠 How to Approach Someone on LinkedIn (The Right Way)
Instead of opening with “Can you help me get a job?” — try something more human:
✅ Find common ground – University, industry, nationality, mutual connections, or shared content.
✅ Send a thoughtful message Example:
“Hi [Name], I noticed we’re both from [Country] and work in [Industry]. Your journey really inspires me — would you mind sharing a bit about your path into [Company Name]?”
✅ Engage consistently – Follow their page. – Like and comment on their posts. – Join relevant conversations.
🔑 Practical Message Templates
Here are some simple starters you can adapt:
📌 University connection: “Hi [Name], I see we both studied at [University]. I’m exploring a similar path and would love to hear about your experience.”
📌 Industry curiosity: “Hi [Name], I noticed your work in [Industry] — I’m transitioning into this area and would really value your insights.”
📌 Company admiration: “Hi [Name], [Company] is a dream company for me. Would you be open to sharing how you got started there?”
📊 Data That Supports a Human Approach
- 85% of all jobs are filled through networking (HubSpot, 2024).
- Personalized LinkedIn messages get a 38% higher response rate than generic ones (LinkedIn Talent Blog, 2023).
- People are 92% more likely to trust recommendations from someone they know (Nielsen, 2023).
Networking works — when it’s real.
❤️ Be Human First
People are not job vending machines. They’re professionals with stories, struggles, and dreams — just like you.
Start with curiosity, offer genuine interest, and let the relationship build naturally.
And remember: 🔹 Follow people who inspire you 🔹 Share your journey 🔹 Celebrate others 🔹 Give before asking
Because in the world of LinkedIn, connection always comes before conversion.
✍️ Final Thought
Recruiters and professionals don’t just hire résumés — they hire people.
So next time you’re tempted to click “connect” and send “Hi, can you help me find a job?” — pause.
Instead, try: “Hi, I’d love to learn from your story.”
That single sentence could open a door you didn’t even know was there.
