The following column originally appeared on News To Live By, the career advice blog maintained by RCG Vice President Danny Rubin. 

Here’s a public relations tip from the Rubin Communications team based in Virginia Beach:

Each time we “connect” on LinkedIn, we’re given the standard template:

I’d like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.

– Your first and last name

Booooriiiiing.

If you click to connect through the person’s profile page, you can delete the bland note and make the message something more personal.

So if you met the person somewhere and want to connect on LinkedIn, go with:

• “Great to meet you at [place where you met]. Let’s stay in touch!”

If you saw/read/heard the person and liked what he/she is all about, go with:

• “I enjoyed [how you came across the person; for instance “hearing your interview about children and nutrition on NPR”]. Let’s stay in touch!”

If you find the person’s LinkedIn profile interesting, go with:

• “I enjoyed reading about your [what you find notable on the person’s profile, “experience with 3D printing here in Milwaukee.”]. Let’s stay in touch!”

Finally, if you want to invite the person to set up a conversation, you can remove “Let’s stay in touch!” and add “I’d like to set up a time to talk over the next couple of weeks. Please let me know if you’re free. Thanks!” You will need to judge the scenario, and if it’s appropriate to ask for the person’s time.

Here’s what happens when you turn the LinkedIn invite into a special note:

The person may respond with a special note too.

To be exceptional, we need to master the little things. A custom LinkedIn invite is a quick way to leave a lasting impression (see 10 more “quick ways” here).

Oh, and one more LinkedIn tip: How to Write the Perfect LinkedIn Profile Summary

What’s your LinkedIn “connection” strategy?

Share below!