Should You Stop Using LinkedIn’s "Templated" Recruiter Message?

Eliana Haddad
Jan 21
4 min read

If you’ve ever clicked “Message recruiter” on a LinkedIn job post, you’ve seen the pre-written note that’s basically: “Hi, I’m interested. My experience is a match. Do you have time for a call?” It feels efficient, right?

But recruiters often find those templated messages annoying, not because you’re reaching out, but because the template reads like a mass-send request for an interview, and it adds to an already overloaded inbox.

So what do you do instead if you genuinely want to stand out, be respectful, and actually increase your chances? Let’s break it down in a way that’s practical (and doesn’t require being a “networking person”).

Why the LinkedIn Template Message Rubs Recruiters the Wrong Way?

Recruiters aren’t saying “don’t message me.” In fact, they make themselves available because they’re open to contact.

They’re saying: don’t send that message.

Here’s why it tends to land badly:

It’s copy-paste obvious. Recruiters get a ton of them, and they all look the same.
It asks for a call too soon. A call is basically asking for time + attention + a mini-interview before they’ve even reviewed your application.
It doesn’t add new information. If you already applied, “I’m interested” isn’t useful unless you include something that helps them screen you quickly.
Recruiters are juggling multiple roles. Many are handling 5 to 20+ roles at a time, plus internal meetings, candidates, hiring managers, and interview scheduling.

If you want a recruiter message to work, it needs to be lighter, more specific, and easier to respond to.

Before You Message: Ask Yourself These Quick Questions

This part matters because sometimes the best move is applying and not messaging at all.

Ask:

Did I already apply?
If yes, the message should add context, not repeat your resume.
Is there a real question I need answered?
Example: location flexibility, sponsorship, salary band (sometimes), timeline, seniority expectations, portfolio requirements.
Am I actually a fit?
Not “I’m a hard worker,” but “my last 2 roles match 80% of the requirements.”
What do I want them to do?
The best answer is usually something easy, like: “Can you confirm if X is required?” not “Can we hop on a call?”

What a Good Recruiter Message Actually Does?

A strong message should do at least one of these:

Clarify something important (so you don’t waste each other’s time)
Signal fit fast (2-3 specific match points, not a biography)
Make it easy to respond (yes/no or one quick answer)

Think “low-friction” and “high-signal.”

A Better Template (Yes, You Can Use a Template, Just Not LinkedIn’s)

Here are a few message frameworks you can copy and personalize. The personalization part is non-negotiable.

1) The “Quick Fit Snapshot” (after applying)

Subject/first line: Re: [Job Title] - quick question + fit check

Hi [Name], I just applied for the [Job Title] role. Quick fit snapshot: I’ve done [relevant thing #1] for [X years / scale], and recently [relevant thing #2 tied to the job].

Quick question: is experience with [specific requirement] a must-have, or something someone can ramp into?

Thanks either way,

[Your Name]

Why it works: it’s specific, short, and ends with an easy question.

2) The “One Real Question” (before applying)

Hi [Name], hope your week’s going okay. I’m considering applying for the [Job Title] role and wanted to confirm one thing: is the team open to candidates based in [location/time zone], or is it strictly [location]?

Appreciate it,

[Your Name]

Why it works: it respects time and filters whether you should even apply.

3) The “Portfolio/Proof” Message (for creative/technical roles)

Hi [Name], I applied for the [Job Title] role. I know you’re likely getting a lot of messages, so I’ll keep it short:

Here’s a relevant example of my work: [one link] (similar to what you mentioned about [job requirement]).

If there’s anything specific you want candidates to highlight, I’m happy to send it over.

Thanks,

[Your Name]

Why it works: proof wins over promises.

What Not to Say? (Even If You Mean Well)

If you want to avoid being grouped with the “templated noise,” skip these:

“I’d love to pick your brain.” (It signals “free labor / time.”)
“Can we schedule a call?” (Too early, earn the call.)
“I’m the perfect candidate.” (Let the details prove it.)
Huge paragraphs. (Recruiters read fast. Make scanning easy.)
“Following up again” after 24 hours. (Give it time.)

Timing: When to Message? (and When to Let It Go?)

A good rule of thumb:

If the job was posted in the last 24-72 hours: a short message can help, especially if you have a relevant question.
If it’s been open for weeks: messaging might not change much; still okay, but don’t expect a reply.
If you already followed up once: stop there unless you have new information (like an updated portfolio, certification, referral, etc.).

Also worth knowing: LinkedIn inboxes get messy. Your message may not be ignored, it may just be buried.

LinkedIn even has official guidance on messaging etiquette and connection requests here:

www.linkedin.com

LinkedIn Help

LinkedIn Help - Need help using LinkedIn? LinkedIn Help is here to help you get answers to your questions.

Small Tweaks That Make Your Message Feel Human (Not AI)

You don’t need to be quirky. You just need to be real.

Try:

Use their name.
Mention the exact role title.
Reference one detail that proves you looked (team, location, tech stack, industry).
Keep it to 4-7 lines max.
Ask one question.

If you want a deeper look at recruiter workflows and why they can’t reply to everything, this overview is useful.

And if you prefer watching a quick breakdown on LinkedIn job search + messaging strategy, this YouTube search has several solid recruiter-led explainers (pick one that fits your industry.)