Mistakes to avoid when approaching a recruiter on LinkedIn

Contacting a recruiter on LinkedIn often seems like a good idea to advance your job search. You write the perfect message... and sometimes, nothing. No reply, not even a “seen”.

This silence is not always a lack of benevolence: often, the approach was simply not the right one. Many candidates idealise the recruiter and send clumsy or badly targeted messages, thinking they are doing the right thing.

Here are the most common mistakes that get in the way of effective contact.

1. The ultra-generic message

«Hello, I'm looking for a job. Do you have anything for me?»
A recruiter receives this type of message every week. Without context or precision, they have no way of understanding what you're looking for.

2. Request a service without preamble

Asking for your CV to be proofread or for an opinion on your profile when you've never spoken to each other before creates a feeling of unease. Even though some recruiters or HR professionals may agree to help from time to time, this is not their main role. In general, they are not there to coach each candidate individually.

3. Unexpected voice messages

Audios may seem more “human”, but in a professional context they are often perceived as intrusive. Especially when it's your first contact.

4. Relaunching too much, too quickly

Two reminders in 48 hours: no! An excessive reminder can send a signal of impatience, or even pressure.

5. To devalue oneself from the outset

«I know I don't have all the skills...».»
This approach can only reinforce the recruiter's doubts instead of creating confidence.

6. Ill-calibrated trust

«I have a huge amount of experience, I'm bound to be an asset to your company.»
Confidence, yes. Arrogance, never. Better to talk results than years.

So how do you do it right?
Apply first, then contact us.
Thank the recruiter for the addition, not for the “acceptance”.
Be clear, brief and professional.

Show that you know the company.
Propose an exchange if your profile catches their attention.
A well-constructed message is not a perfect message: it's a respectful, targeted message that's useful for both you and the recruiter.

Find even more experience sharing and advice on nOur media OSAM Training.