Example of Outreach Sequences

Automate your candidate outreach while keeping it personal and relevant. Below are three common ways to structure sequences depending on whether candidates are already connected with you on LinkedIn or not.

Each sequence combines automated steps and personalized messages so you can contact more candidates efficiently without losing the human touch.

1. Sequence Starting with a Connection Request

Use this when reaching out to candidates you are not yet connected with on LinkedIn.

Step 1: Send a Connection Request
Start by selecting the candidates you want to reach and send a personalized connection request. You can mention something simple, such as your company or why you’d like to connect.

Step 2: Wait for Connection Acceptance
Once the candidate accepts your request, the system automatically moves them to the next step in your sequence.

Step 3: Send a Follow-up Message
After a short delay (for example, 1–2 days), send your first follow-up message to introduce the role or opportunity. Keep it short, friendly, and relevant to their background.

Step 4: Add a Second Follow-up Message
If there’s no reply after a few days, you can schedule another gentle reminder or follow-up — for example, highlighting something interesting about the company or the position.

Step 5: If No Response After Several Days – Send an InMail
If the candidate hasn’t accepted your connection request or hasn’t responded within a set period, you can automatically send an InMail as an alternative way to reach them.

2. Sequence Starting with an InMail

Ideal when you prefer to reach candidates directly via InMail, without sending a connection request first.

Step 1: Send an InMail
Begin with a personalized InMail introducing yourself, your company, and the opportunity. Keep it conversational and relevant.

Step 2: Follow Up if No Reply
If you don’t receive a response within a few days, schedule a second InMail or a message reminding them about your earlier note. Keep this message shorter and reference your previous contact.

Step 3: Add a Soft Final Reminder
After another few days, send one last polite message thanking them for their time and letting them know they can reach out later if they become interested.
This step closes the loop professionally and keeps the door open for future contact.

3. Sequence for Candidates You’re Already Connected With

Designed for candidates who are existing LinkedIn connections.

Step 1: Send a Message to Existing Connection
Start by sending a friendly direct message that references your existing connection. For example, “Hi Anna, I saw your recent post about product growth — I thought of you for a new role we’re hiring for.”

Step 2: Send a Follow-up Message
If there’s no reply within a few days, send a short follow-up to check in. You can add a little more detail about the opportunity or ask if they’d like to hear more.

Step 3: Final Reminder or Close-out Message
If there’s still no response after a few more days, send a polite close-out message thanking them for their time. This keeps the interaction professional and open-ended.