How to Handle Being Approached on LinkedIn

Have you been approached on LinkedIn and are wondering about the best way to respond?

If you aren’t particularly active on the platform, you might be curious about why you were contacted. It is quite common for a UK recruitment agency to approach someone who might be a suitable candidate based on their public profile information, such as work experience, skills and qualifications.

While it isn’t always easy to tell whether you should respond to a private message, it is wise to keep an open mind when a new notification arrives. In many cases, you might find that your initial ‘no’ is more likely to be a ‘not right now.’

With persistent shortages of engineers in the UK, being approached on LinkedIn is becoming more frequent. As Engineering UK research shows, the most positive projection of new graduates entering engineering is still 20,000 fewer than needed by employers.

Let’s take a look at the best responses for most situations when you’re being contacted directly about a new job opportunity.

How to Say ‘Yes’

Have you been approached by an engineering recruitment agency with a job that intrigues you? If you are determined to explore new opportunities, it is best to respond to the message as quickly as possible.

Make it clear you are interested in the role and summarise what makes you a suitable candidate. To progress your application quickly, include your CV and contact details in the reply:

Hi [Name],

Thanks for getting in touch! This sounds like an interesting opportunity.

As you might have seen on my profile, I have [X years] of experience in the [industry or job function]. This includes three years’ experience leading projects in the UK and abroad. Please find attached a copy of my CV for my full work history and qualifications.

I’m currently open to roles that enable me to combine my engineering skills with new concepts and ideas in the field, and the role you’ve approached me with certainly sounds like a good match.

Please contact me on [phone number or email] to arrange a suitable time for a conversation. I look forward to speaking with you.

Best,
[Your Name]

What if You’re Looking for a Job, But Not This One?

Being approached on LinkedIn can appear as a stroke of luck when you’re already searching for a new job, but it can seem like a let down if the job isn’t what you are looking for. You can, however, turn this into a positive and expand your professional network.

Reply to the Recruiter and explain that you are not keen on this job but would certainly be interested in other positions they have available. Highlight the qualities of the ideal position you would like to apply for, including any engineering industry benefits (e.g., variety of work, travel, access to modern technology). If policies like flexible work are important to you, mention these as well.

Hi [Name],

Thank you for your consideration.

I am currently interested in new job opportunities, although this position isn’t quite what I’m looking for. I would prefer a role with

You may reach me at [your email address and/or phone number]. I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind Regards,

How to Politely Decline

There will be occasions where it is best to say no. You might be completely satisfied with your current role, so the prospect of changing jobs is not on your radar at this time.

In these situations, be mindful of the future potential the message might have. The Recruiter may be a valuable contact when you do decide to start your next job search. Make your reply clear but cordial:

Hi [Name],

Thanks for your message. This sounds like an interesting role, and I appreciate your consideration.

I am not searching for a new position right now, but I’ll be sure to contact you next time I’m looking for a change.

Kind Regards,
[Your Name]

How to Increase Your Chances of Being Approached

If you’re determined to expand your professional network, you can tweak your LinkedIn profile to encourage Recruiters to contact you about new roles. Activating LinkedIn’s ‘Open to Work’ setting on your profile allows your name to appear on searches when Recruiters are searching for engineers. And they are also more likely to contact you first if this is the case.

Make sure your work history and qualifications are up-to-date and match the information you have on your CV.

Summary

Regardless of your employment status, a message from a Recruiter might turn out to be just what you’ve been looking for. If you’re being headhunted on LinkedIn, it is best to respond politely. Be upfront about your intent and whether you are open to suitable roles now or perhaps later. You will always be better off keeping the door open.

Speaking to a recruitment specialist can help match you to the most suitable roles without waiting to get headhunted. CV Consulting is the UK’s leading engineering recruitment agency, connecting top engineering talent with great employers nationwide. To find your next role, get in touch with our team of recruitment experts.