Connection request
A connection request is an invitation to connect on LinkedIn, optionally with a short note. It is usually the first step in LinkedIn outreach, since you generally message people at scale only after they accept.
On LinkedIn, a connection request asks another member to join your network. You can send it with or without a personal note. Once the person accepts, you can message them directly without using paid message credits.
In outreach, the request is the front door. A clear profile, a relevant target, and a note that does not read as a pitch all affect whether it is accepted. Many teams test blank requests against short, specific notes and keep whichever performs better for their audience.
LinkedIn limits how many requests an account can send and may restrict accounts that send too many or too fast. Keeping volume steady and tied to account health matters more than chasing a high number. The accepted share is tracked as acceptance rate, and unanswered requests sit as pending invitations.
Common questions
Should a connection request include a note?
It depends on your audience. Some campaigns do better with a short, specific note and others with none, so test both and compare acceptance rates.
Why does LinkedIn limit connection requests?
LinkedIn limits invitations to discourage spammy behavior and protect members. The exact limits can change, so check current guidance and keep your sending conservative.
Related terms
See FollowArc run your outreach
An autonomous AI sales agent for LinkedIn + email — you stay in control.
Start your 7-day free trial7-day free trial. Add a card to start, $0 today, cancel before day 7 and pay nothing.