A Template for Reaching Out to Professionals on LinkedIn

• –They are too long — professionals are busy and do not have time to read a paragraph of context before getting to the point
• –They are too vague — 'I would love to learn about your career journey' is not a specific enough ask
• –They ask for too much — a 30-minute call is a significant request from someone you've never met
• –They show no research — 'I saw you work in marketing' could apply to thousands of people and signals you haven't looked at their profile
• –They are transactional — they read as 'what can you do for me' rather than beginning a genuine conversation

1. 1Specific reference: mention something specific about them that shows you have actually looked at their profile — a company they work at, something they have posted, a career path you noticed
2. 2Genuine connection: explain briefly and honestly why you are reaching out — what you are studying, what you are working towards, or what prompted you to contact them in particular
3. 3Small, specific ask: ask for something that takes them five minutes, not thirty — one question answered, a recommendation of who else to speak to, or a brief conversation if they are open to it

Template 1: Reaching out to a university alumnus

Hi [Name],

I noticed you studied [Course] at [University] and now work as a [Role] at [Company] — I am in my [Year] year studying [Course] and am seriously interested in moving into [Field].

Would you be open to a 15-minute call at some point? I have a couple of specific questions about the transition from [University] into [Field] that I think you would be well-placed to answer.

Thanks,
[Your name]

Template 2: Cold outreach to an industry professional

Hi [Name],

I came across your profile while researching [Company/Field] — your work on [specific project or area from their profile] caught my attention.

I am a [Year] student studying [Course] and I am trying to understand what a career in [Field] actually looks like day-to-day. Would you be willing to answer one or two questions over message, or point me towards someone who might be?

[Your name]

Template 3: Following up after an event or meeting

Hi [Name],

It was great to meet you at [Event] — I really appreciated what you said about [specific thing they mentioned].

I would love to stay connected, and if you are ever open to it, I would value the chance to hear more about your work at [Company]. No pressure at all — just genuinely interested in the sector.

[Your name]