Each of my last two jobs have come through LinkedIn, and I've had multiple offers that were initiated from LinkedIn messages. From my experience both sending and receiving messages, here are the sweet spots to prioritize: 

1. Managers - especially those with "I'm hiring" in their byline
2. Warm connections: e.g. real mutual acquaintances, the same alma mater
3. A role that you're actually a good fit and a company you'd want to work for

Don't get so burnt out doing 'spray and pray' that you fail to capitalize on the best opportunities for networking. 

First, apply online. You'll have to apply anyway and this lets you reference a specific role in your initial message. Expect these folks are getting many messages; if they don't know what you want, it's easier to ignore. 

Second, send a short 1 paragraph message that references the warm connection, your strongest most relevant skill, and why you're interested in the role. If they respond, your follow-up message can be more detailed. 

If you have absolutely no warm connections in the company that you're looking to apply, then try to find someone that is as close to your skillset as possible. 

I've received so many requests for referrals from folks that aren't in my field and I wouldn't even be able to make a reasonable assessment of their level and fit. 

#networking #jobsearch #jobsearchtips