5: Sequences
Sequences
A sequence is a series of outreach steps sent automatically on a schedule you set. Instead of sending one message and hoping for a reply, you build a flow — a connection request, a follow-up message a few days later, a second follow-up if there's still no response — and TalentRiver handles the timing.
Building a sequence
When creating a sequence, you add steps one at a time. Each step is either a connection request, a LinkedIn message, or an InMail. For each step you set:
The message — written directly in the step. Use the variable tags to personalise automatically, for example inserting the candidate's first name, current title, or company. A message that looks personal gets significantly more replies than one that looks like a blast.
The delay — how many days after the previous step this message sends. A common pattern is: connection request on day 1, first message on day 3 after they accept, follow-up on day 7 if no reply.
Keep sequences short. Two or three steps is usually enough. A sequence that runs too long starts to feel like spam and can damage your response rate.
Step types and when to use them
Connection request — always the first step if you're not already connected. You can add a short note here (recommended) or send without one. Keep any note brief — one sentence explaining why you're reaching out is enough.
Message — sends only if the candidate has accepted your connection request. TalentRiver waits for the connection before sending. If they haven't accepted, the step is held until they do or until the sequence times out.
InMail — sends to candidates you're not connected with, using your InMail credits. Use this as an alternative first step if you want to reach candidates without waiting for a connection acceptance.
Adding candidates to a sequence
You can add candidates to a sequence one at a time from their profile, or in bulk from your Saved tab. To add in bulk, go to your Saved tab, click Select all, then choose Contact and select the sequence you want to use. All selected candidates will be enrolled and steps will send according to the schedule you've set.
TalentRiver checks for replies automatically. If a candidate responds at any point, they are removed from the sequence so they don't receive further automated messages. You take over from there in the inbox.
A few things to get right before you send
Make sure your LinkedIn account is connected and active before starting a sequence.
Check your daily send limits. Sending too many connection requests in a short window can flag your LinkedIn account. TalentRiver paces sends to stay within safe limits, but be mindful of how many candidates you enrol at once.