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Is your LinkedIn inbox a graveyard of unanswered cold messages?

You're not alone.

The average response rate is a measly 2%.

Why?

Because most messages sound like this:

"Hi [First Name], I saw you work at [Company] and wanted to connect about [Product]. Let me know if you're interested in learning more!"

Delete.

But today, I'll share 7 personalization hacks to make your messages impossible to ignore.

These tricks set you apart from the robotic sales crowd.

They spark intrigue, build rapport, and pull recipients in so they can't wait to reply.

Curious what they are? Read on:

1. Research the prospect and company

Don't glance for two seconds and move on. Really dive in and get to know them.

Look for hidden gems about their personality, interests, and goals.

Spot shared groups and connections.

The more intel you gather, the more personalized your message.

For example, maybe they volunteer for charity. You could say:

"I noticed on your profile you support Habitat for Humanity. What an inspiring organization! I'd love to chat more about how we can work together."

This shows you did your homework and care about more than just sales.

2. Refer to their background

Anyone can say "I see you went to NYU too."

But it's more memorable to reference a standout initiative from their background.

For instance:

"I see you led the acquisition of Company XYZ during your time at ABC Corp. That pivot into a new market was genius!"

This proves you didn't just skim - their accomplishments truly caught your eye.

3. Note shared connections

Don't just mention shared connections generically.

Highlight how you know them or what you have in common.

Instead of:

"Looks like we're both connected to John Smith."

Try:

"John Smith and I go way back to our Berkeley days. We still trade stock tips every month. Good to see you're connected with John too!"

Now that shared connection becomes a meaningful bond.

4. Compliment their wins

Everyone loves hearing about their achievements.

But don't just praise their company generically.

Congratulate them on specific awards, product launches, campaigns, etc. from the past few months.

For instance:

"I just read about your new mobile app release last month. It looks like a total game-changer for your industry. Kudos to you and the team!"

This shows you're keeping up with all their latest success.

5. Explain why you’re reaching out

Yes, explain why you want to connect.

But take it further by noting what excites you specifically about working with them.

Instead of a generic pitch, say:

"After seeing how you modernized Company XYZ's sales process, I got really excited about how we could innovate together. I know you're growing rapidly, and I think our analytics could take your sales to the next level."

This gives them a sneak peek of the future partnership.

6. Suggest next steps

Don't just blast meeting invites.

Offer options tailored to their preferences.

"I'd love to chat over coffee or Skype, whichever you prefer. Would next Tuesday or Friday at 11 am work? Or if another time is better, just let me know!"

Giving choices makes it easy for them to say yes.

7. Close with a personalized sign-off

End your message by addressing them directly with their first name.

Instead of "Thanks, [Your name]" say:

"Looking forward to connecting, Sarah!" or "Have a great weekend, Michael!"

This subtle personal touch sticks in their mind.

Final Thoughts

Taking a few extra minutes to personalize will seriously increase your LinkedIn response rate.

Prospects want to feel like more than just another sales target.

When you show them respect by personalizing, they’ll be excited to learn more about working with you.

Talk soon,

Nick

Whenever you are ready, there are 3 ways we can help you:

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