Most of us were raised to believe that working hard and keeping our heads down would be enough. In corporate America (and honestly, in most professional spaces), that mindset can keep you invisible.

The good news: networking doesn’t have to feel fake or salesy. When you approach it as relationship-building—with clarity, respect, and value—it becomes one of the most powerful skills you can learn.

Below are 10 templates you can use for different scenarios on LinkedIn and in real-world networking. They’re short, specific, and easy for someone to say “yes” to.

Before you send anything: 3 quick rules

1. Personalize one line (show you’re not mass-messaging)

2. Make a small ask (10–15 minutes or one question)

3. Give an easy out (“No worries if not” reduces pressure)

1) The “Cold but Respectful” Connection Request

Use when: You don’t know them, but you admire their work.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I’m [Your Name], a [role/student] interested in [field]. I came across your work on [specific thing] and really appreciated [specific detail]. I’d love to connect and learn from what you share here.

2) The “Same School / Same Program” Alumni Message

Use when: You share a university, scholarship program, bootcamp, or community.

Template:

Hey [Name] — I noticed we’re both [School/Program] alumni. I’m currently focused on [goal/role] and would love to hear how you approached [career move/industry]. If you’re open, could I ask you 1–2 quick questions?

3) The “Follow-Up After Connecting” Message (Most People Forget This)

Use when: They accepted your request—now you want to build the relationship.

Template:

Thanks for connecting, [Name]. Quick question: what’s one skill or habit that made the biggest difference for you early in your career in [industry]? I’m focused on leveling up in that direction this quarter.

4) The “After an Event” Message (Conference / Workshop / Panel)

Use when: You met them in person or attended a talk.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I enjoyed your [talk/panel] at [event]. The part about [specific takeaway] stuck with me. I’m currently working toward [goal], and I’d love to stay connected. If you’re open, I’d appreciate a quick 10–15 min chat sometime in the next couple weeks.

5) The “Informational Interview” Ask (Clear + Low Pressure)

Use when: You want to learn about their role/company without sounding like you’re begging.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I’m exploring [role/industry] and noticed you’ve built great experience at [Company]. If you’re open, I’d love a 15-minute learning chat. My only goal is to understand:

1. what skills matter most, and

2. what you wish you knew earlier.
   No worries at all if your schedule is tight.

6) The “Recruiter” Message (Short, Proof-Based)

Use when: You want access + clarity on the right next step.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I’m interested in [role/program] at [Company]. Quick snapshot:
• [Skill/strength + proof]
• [Skill/strength + proof]
• Portfolio: [link]
What’s the best next step to be considered? If helpful, I’m happy to share a 1-paragraph summary of my fit.

7) The “Referral” Ask (Only When You’ve Built Some Rapport)

Use when: You’ve chatted before, or you share meaningful context.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I hope you’ve been well. I’m applying for [role] at [Company] and the team is doing work around [specific area] that aligns with my background in [relevant experience].
If you feel comfortable, would you be open to referring me or pointing me to the right hiring manager? I can send a 3-bullet summary + my resume to make it easy.

8) The “Mentor” Ask (Guidance, Not Dependency)

Use when: You want support and feedback from someone ahead of you.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I really respect how you’ve navigated [career area]. I’m currently working on [goal] and would value your advice on one question: [question].
If you’re open, could we do a 15-minute chat sometime this month? Totally understand if now isn’t a good time.

9) The “Sponsor” Ask (The Ask That Changes Outcomes)

Use when: You want someone to advocate, not just advise.

Template:

Hi [Name] — I’m focused on growing into [next level role/opportunity]. I’d love your perspective on what “excellent” looks like in that lane and where I should focus this quarter.
If you think it’s a fit, I’d also appreciate being considered for [specific opportunity: visibility, project, intro]. Could I send a 3-bullet update and ask for 15 minutes?

10) The “Reconnecting After Silence” Message (No Awkward Energy)

Use when: It’s been months (or years) and you want to revive the relationship.

Template:

Hi [Name] — it’s been a minute, but I saw your update about [job/project]—congrats. I’ve been working on [your update in one line].
If you’re open, I’d love to reconnect and hear what you’re focused on this season. No pressure—just thought of you.

A simple way to use these (without overthinking)

Pick two people a week and send:

• 1 new outreach message

• 1 follow-up to someone you already know

That’s it. You don’t need to be extroverted, or to have a ton of connections. All you need is a rhythm.