LinkedIn Messaging Tips for Job Seekers

Professional outreach tips for early-career fashion professionals

Reaching out to someone you don’t know on LinkedIn can feel awkward—especially when you’re early in your career and looking for a job. You don’t want to come across as too direct, too vague, or too transactional. At the same time, you want to be clear, purposeful, and professional.

Here’s the truth: people in the fashion industry do help each other. But they are far more likely to respond if you approach them the right way—with context, clarity, and respect for their time.

Whether you’re messaging a recruiter, a designer, a buyer, or someone whose career path you admire, here’s what to keep in mind—and what to actually say.

Before You Message Anyone: Do Your Homework

Before you hit “Connect” or “Message,” take a few minutes to review the person’s LinkedIn profile. Look at their current role, past companies, alma mater, and any content they’ve posted or shared. This will help you:

• Write a more personalized message
• Understand their potential connection to the role or company you’re targeting
• Avoid asking questions you could have answered on your own

If they work in a function you want to break into (like merchandising, product development, or sourcing), try to understand the basics of their role so you can ask informed questions.

How to Craft Your Message

A good outreach message is short, specific, and professional. It should include:

1. Who you are
   Mention your current status—whether you’re a recent grad, finishing an internship, or actively exploring entry-level roles.
2. Why you’re reaching out
   Be honest. Whether it’s to ask for advice, learn more about a company, or inquire about an open role, say so.
3. What you’re asking
   This is key. Make a clear, reasonable ask—like a 15-minute chat, or if they can point you to the right person to talk to.
4. A note of appreciation
   Always thank them for their time and consideration, regardless of whether they respond.

Templates You Can Use and Adapt

Here are a few message templates you can personalize depending on the situation.

When you admire someone’s career path:

Hi [Name],

I’m a recent [school] grad exploring opportunities in [field—e.g., buying or production]. I came across your profile while researching career paths, and your experience at [Company] really stood out.

If you’re open to it, I’d love to ask you a few quick questions about how you got started and what you’ve learned along the way. Thanks so much for considering—I really appreciate your time.

When reaching out to a recruiter or talent manager:

Hi [Name],

I’m an early-career [your area of interest—e.g., technical designer] with internship experience at [Company], currently looking for entry-level roles in [city or function]. I noticed you work with [Company or type of hiring] and wanted to reach out.

If there are any openings that align with my background, I’d love to learn more. I’ve attached my resume here [or: I’d be happy to share more details]. Thank you for your time—I’d welcome any guidance you might have.

When there’s a specific job posted:

Hi [Name],

I saw the [Job Title] role at [Company] and wanted to express my interest. I’ve recently completed [school, internship, project, etc.] and am eager to apply my skills in a role like this.

If you’re involved in hiring for this position—or could point me to someone who is—I’d be grateful. Thanks again for your time and consideration.

Things to Avoid

• Asking for a job outright: Instead, ask for insight, guidance, or a point of contact.
• Mass messaging: Generic messages are easy to ignore. Personalize each one.
• Being overly casual or overly formal: Avoid slang, but don’t sound robotic. Aim for a tone that’s respectful and human.

Final Advice: Don’t Overthink It—But Do Follow Up

You don’t need the perfect words to reach out—you just need to be clear, polite, and authentic. If someone doesn’t respond, don’t take it personally. People are busy. You can follow up once after a week or two, but if there’s still no reply, move on and reach out to someone else.

The more conversations you start, the more you learn. And the more you learn, the more strategic your job search becomes.

Pro Tip: Join Industry-Specific LinkedIn Groups

It’s much easier to connect with professionals in the fashion industry when you already share something in common—and LinkedIn groups can be that common ground. Being part of industry-specific groups signals that you’re serious about your field and gives you context when reaching out. One of the largest and most active groups for fashion professionals on LinkedIn is the StyleCareers Group. Joining it can help you find the right people faster and increase your chances of making meaningful connections.