Personalize
Research First
Value
Give Before Ask
Brief
2-3 Paragraphs
Clear CTA
Small Ask
Recipient Information
Who are you reaching out to?
Connection Context
How do you know them?
Your Context
Message Type
Purpose of Outreach
Platform & Tone
2
Networking Message Best Practices
- • Research First: Know their role, achievements, and interests before reaching out
- • Give Before Ask: Offer value (article, insight, introduction) before requesting anything
- • Keep it Brief: 2-3 short paragraphs max - respect their time
- • Small Ask: Start with a 15-min call or quick question, not a job request
- • Follow Up: Send a polite nudge after 3-5 days if no response