2 days ago
Why Your LinkedIn Message Gets Ignored And How To Fix It
creating the best networking posts and messages on LinkedIn
Young entrepreneurs often view LinkedIn as their gateway to opportunity. They send cold messages to investors, journalists, mentors, and potential collaborators—hoping one connection might change everything. LinkedIn sees over 100 billion connection requests annually, according to SupplyGem, solidifying its role as the go-to platform for professional networking. But after reading thousands of messages in my inbox, one thing has become obvious: some people get replies right away, others are coming across way too transactional and will never hear back.
It's not about luck. It's about how you approach the conversation.
Most LinkedIn messages from young professionals follow a familiar script: "Hi, I'd love to connect" or the dreaded "Can I pick your brain?" These generic approaches reveal their true purpose immediately—the sender wants something but hasn't taken the time to understand what the recipient might value.
Effective LinkedIn messages follow a simple structure that respects the recipient's time while demonstrating genuine intent:
Context: Why this person, at this moment?
Connection: What specific common ground exists?
Clarity: What do you need, and is it reasonable?
Here's how this looks in practice:
"Hi Sarah, I read your Forbes article about teen entrepreneurs using AI tools for business development. I'm 17, launching a sustainable fashion startup, and your insights on balancing innovation with practical execution resonated. Would you be open to sharing one resource that helped you most when starting WIT?"
This message succeeds because it references specific content, demonstrates genuine engagement, and makes a small, actionable request.
The most effective cold outreach requests something specific and achievable. Instead of asking for "30 minutes to chat," consider these alternatives:
These focused questions respect busy schedules while providing recipients with an easy way to offer valuable guidance. The goal is to start a conversation, not secure a commitment.
Here's an actual message (details changed) that led to a meaningful connection:
"Hi [Name], I saw you speak at the SXSW EDU Student Startup Competition. I'm working on a peer tutoring platform and was inspired by your advice about finding product-market fit early. Our biggest challenge is user retention after the first session. Based on your experience with WIT, what's one strategy that might help us?"
This message worked because it:
Even perfectly crafted messages don't guarantee responses. Timing, inbox volume, and current priorities all influence reply rates. Cognism data shows the average user spends about 14 minutes and 20 seconds per session on LinkedIn, making competition for attention intense. SupplyGem research indicates that while 84% of people use LinkedIn to strengthen their professional network, the sheer volume of outreach means many quality messages get overlooked.
The key is treating each message as a relationship-building opportunity, not a transaction-seeking one. Some connections develop immediately, and others emerge months later when the timing aligns. Ultimately, consistency and authenticity matter more than any single interaction.
If you are unsure where to start, here's a customizable framework:
Hi [Name],
I came across your work through [specific source]. I'm currently [brief project description], and your insights about [specific topic] particularly resonated because [personal connection].
Would you be willing to [specific, small ask]? I understand your time is valuable, and even a brief response would be incredibly helpful.
Thank you for the work you're doing with [their company/cause].
Best, [Your name]
This template is effective because it demonstrates research, fosters a personal connection, and makes a reasonable request.
The most successful young entrepreneurs approach LinkedIn as a relationship platform, not a request machine. They engage with content before reaching out, comment thoughtfully on posts, and offer value when possible.
Research from Harvard Business School indicates that professionals who prioritize relationship-building over transactional networking tend to form more valuable connections over time. Young entrepreneurs who engage authentically—commenting on posts, sharing relevant content, and celebrating others' successes—build networks that provide genuine support throughout their careers.
When young entrepreneurs prioritize building genuine relationships over collecting contacts, their networks evolve into genuine support systems that offer guidance, opportunities, and partnerships throughout their careers.
Staying connected on LinkedIn isn't just about posting—it's about showing up for others. Thoughtful follow-ups, engaging with posts, and celebrating wins go a long way in building authentic relationships. Before asking someone for help, young entrepreneurs should first ask themselves, 'Have I shown interest in their work?'
Instead of: 'Great post!'
Say: 'I've been thinking a lot about how Gen Z entrepreneurs are pitching lately—your take on clarity over charisma really stuck with me.'
Sharing Their Article with a Personal Note
'This article by [Name] gave me a new way to think about building early-stage networks. A must-read for young founders trying to get noticed.'
Referencing Their Work in a Message
'I saw your Forbes piece on how teens can use LinkedIn to grow their brand. That inspired me to update my own profile and start posting regularly.'
Tagging Them When You Apply Their Advice
'Took @SarahHernholm's advice and reworked my pitch intro. Just landed a meeting with a local nonprofit!'
Quoting Them in Your Own Post
'As [Name] says, 'Personal brand is your digital handshake.' I've been rethinking mine thanks to their insight.'
These early habits of intentional networking pay off later—whether applying to college, searching for internships, or launching a first career. This matters especially for younger users—Hootsuite data shows that 29% of LinkedIn users are aged 18-24, making professional networking skills essential for this demographic. Learning to communicate professionally while demonstrating genuine interest and respect creates advantages that compound over time.
The goal isn't just getting a reply—it's starting relationships that support long-term growth and mutual benefit. When young entrepreneurs master this approach, LinkedIn becomes a powerful tool for building the networks that fuel entrepreneurial success.
