linkedin-message-sequence
Use this skill when you need a LinkedIn outreach sequence that starts conversations instead of collecting ignored pitches: "write a LinkedIn message sequence", "what do I send after they accept", "LinkedIn prospecting messages". Designs the steps from connection to meeting (note, first message, value message, soft ask, close), writes each message in a conversational tone, sets timing and exit rules, and includes reply branches for the most common answers.Use this to plan a LinkedIn campaign end to end. LinkedIn is a conversation channel; messages that read like emails pasted into a chat window get ignored.
Inputs
- Persona and the problem the campaign is about.
- Offer and approved proof.
- The reason to connect (from research, an event, content or a trigger).
The play
1. Shape the sequence
| Step | Timing | Job | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection request | Day 0 | Get accepted | Under 200 characters, no pitch |
| Message 1 | 1-3 days after accept | Start a conversation on the topic | 1-3 sentences, ends in a question |
| Message 2 | 4-5 days later | Give value: an insight, resource or story | 2-4 sentences |
| Message 3 | 5-7 days later | Soft ask tied to their answer or the topic | 2-3 sentences |
| Message 4 | 7-10 days later | Close the loop warmly | 1-2 sentences |
Voice notes and short videos can replace message 2 or 3 for Tier 1 contacts; they stand out because few people use them.
2. Write like a chat
Short lines, no subject, no sign-off block, no bullet lists, no links in message 1. Ask questions people can answer from their phone in five seconds.
3. Bridge from topic to problem
Message 1 is about the topic that made you connect. The bridge to your problem comes through their answer, or in message 2 with a peer insight. Read references/linkedin-sequence-example.md for a full example with reply branches.
4. Handle replies fast
LinkedIn replies expect a response within hours. Positive replies get a meeting link or two time options; questions get a direct answer, not a pitch.
5. Exit rules
Stop on any reply (switch to manual), if they decline, or if someone at the same account books a meeting. Withdraw connection requests not accepted after 14-21 days.
What good looks like
- Message 1 gets a reply because it is a question about their world, not your product.
- No message is longer than a phone screen.
- Acceptance 30%+, reply rate on accepted connections 15-25%+ for a well-targeted list.
- The common mistake is "Thanks for connecting! We help companies like yours..." sent seconds after acceptance.
Rules
- MUST wait at least a day after acceptance before the first message.
- MUST stop automation the moment someone replies.
- MUST stay within safe daily limits for invitations and messages.
- NEVER pitch in the connection note or message 1.
- NEVER send links in the first message.
Example prompts
- "Build a LinkedIn sequence for heads of finance at 50-200 person companies. Problem: slow month-end close."
- "What should I send after people accept my connection request?"
- "Rewrite our LinkedIn messages; they read like emails."