How to Message a Recruiter on LinkedIn (2026)
There are three ways to reach a recruiter on LinkedIn, and which one you have depends on your connection and account type. Here’s how each works, plus a template that beats the generic “I’m interested” message.
1. Send a Connection Request With a Note
The most reliable free option:
- Open the recruiter’s profile.
- Click Connect (use More if Connect is hidden under the button row).
- Click Add a note and write a short, specific message (300-character limit).
- Send. If they accept, you can message freely.
A note dramatically raises acceptance odds over a blank request.
2. Message Directly (Connected or Open Profile)
- If you’re already connected, click Message on their profile and write.
- Many recruiters have an Open Profile badge, meaning anyone can message them for free even without a connection — you’ll see a Message button regardless.
3. Use InMail (Premium / Recruiter)
If you have LinkedIn Premium, Sales Navigator, or the recruiter isn’t reachable any other way:
- Click Message on their profile.
- Compose your InMail (you get a limited monthly allowance).
- Add a subject line — InMails with a clear subject get opened more.
4. A Template That Gets Replies
Hi [Name] — I saw you’re hiring for [specific role] at [company]. I’ve spent [X years] doing [the one most relevant thing], including [a concrete result]. I’d love to be considered — happy to send my resume or hop on a quick call. Thanks!
Why it works: it names the role, proves fit in one line, and ends with a single clear ask.
5. Troubleshooting
There’s no Connect button
It may be under the More dropdown next to their photo. If they limit requests, use InMail or follow them and engage first.
My InMail allowance is gone
InMail credits reset monthly on Premium. Until then, use a connection request with a note instead.
They opened it but didn’t reply
Follow up once after about a week. Keep it to one line: a polite nudge, not a re-pitch.
Related LinkedIn guides: How to export your contacts · How to see who viewed your profile · How to download your resume · How to write a recommendation. To turn recruiter replies into scheduled calls automatically, see Carly’s LinkedIn integration.
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