You connected on LinkedIn. Great! Now what?
The worst thing you can do after a prospect hits “Accept” is jump into a cold pitch.
- Don’t send a 14-paragraph message.
- Don’t attach a PDF with “Here’s what we do.”
- Don’t ask, “Got 15 minutes to hop on a call?”
You’ll get ignored, and you’ll deserve it. Instead, do this:
Step 1: Thank them. Then hint at the value.
Use a simple message that’s short and real.
“Thanks for the connection, [Name]. I work with companies like yours to eliminate unnecessary risk and reduce premium volatility. This is not a sales pitch. I just wanted to connect here on LinkedIn.” (Make sure you specify that you are connecting only on LinkedIn – it takes the pressure off!)
Notice the language. No pressure. No ask. But it plants the seed.
Step 2: Engage with their content.
Don’t just lurk – read their posts, like, comment, and be seen showing an interest. If it’s good information for your connections, repost for maximum impressions.
Make it clear you’re not a bot. People buy from people they recognize.
Step 3: Wait a beat—then go direct.
After a few touches, drop this message:
“Hey [Name], quick question - are you open to a 15-minute conversation to see if our approach to risk management might be a fit for your business? No quoting. No pressure. Just a quick intro to see if there’s alignment.”
That’s it. You didn’t sell. You asked permission. And here’s the secret - this message wins because it respects their time and intelligence.
Now, when they say yes, your call better be tight. You’re not there to sell. You’re there to set the stage. Start the call like this:
“Hey [Name], great connecting with you. I know we’ve only got 15 minutes. I’ll keep this short. I help companies like yours who are frustrated with [insert trigger: rising premiums, lack of claims support, shopping every year]. Can I ask what your biggest concern is when it comes to risk?”
Now you’re in. No jargon. No pitch to quote. You’re in a real conversation. And that’s the whole game. Ask first, then position. Forget about pushing quotes. Focus on creating curiosity. Make them want the meeting.
You got the connection. Now earn the conversation.