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How to message a recruiter on LinkedIn after applying

By Tirth Shah, founder of Bub · Updated

Short answer

Send a short connection request or message within a day or two of applying: name the role, one reason you're a strong fit, and a simple question. Keep connection notes under 200 characters, which is LinkedIn's limit for free accounts. If they accept but don't reply, follow up once after about a week with something new. Once you're connected, a 30 second voice note can help you stand out among text messages.

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Messages to send a recruiter

  • Connection note: "Hi {name}, I just applied for the {role} role at {company}. I've spent {years} on {skill}. Would love to connect."
  • After they accept: "Thanks for connecting, {name}. I applied for {role} yesterday. Is there anything that would help my application stand out?"
  • To a hiring manager: "Hi {name}, I applied for {role} on your team. Your post about {topic} is why I applied. Happy to share more if useful."
  • Follow-up after a week: "Hi {name}, following up on my application for {role}. Since applying, I {new thing}. Still very keen."

Tips that get recruiters to reply

  • Message the right person: the recruiter on the job post, or the hiring manager for the team.
  • Lead with the role and one proof point, not your life story.
  • Ask something easy to answer.
  • Follow up once, then leave it. Recruiters handle hundreds of messages.
  • Once you're connected, a short voice note can stand out. LinkedIn only lets you record them in the phone app; Bub, a free Chrome extension, lets you send them from your laptop.

Questions

Is it OK to message a recruiter on LinkedIn after applying?

Yes. A short, specific message within a day or two of applying is normal and can help your application get noticed.

What's the character limit for a LinkedIn connection note?

Up to 200 characters for free members, who can personalize up to three requests a month.

The recruiter accepted but didn't reply. What now?

Follow up once after about a week with something new, then move on. Accepting doesn't always mean they've seen your message.

Should I send a voice note to a recruiter?

Once you're connected, a short, friendly voice note can help you stand out. Keep it under 40 seconds.

Sources

Checked October 6, 2026. LinkedIn changes its features and limits from time to time.