How to Message Hiring Managers Directly on LinkedIn (2026 Guide)

The "Apply Now" button is the slow lane. When you apply online, your resume sits in a queue with 500 other people, waiting for an algorithm or a tired recruiter to screen it. If you want the fast lane, you need to go to the source: The Hiring Manager.

The Hiring Manager is the person you will actually report to. They feel the pain of the open role. They have the budget. And most importantly, they have the power to say "Interview this person."

This guide will teach you how to find them, what to say, and how to do it without being annoying. At PrepCareers, we advocate for proactive job searching. Once you get their attention, make sure your resume is flawless with our Free Resume Review Tool.

Step 1: Finding the Right Hiring Manager

LinkedIn makes this easier than ever, but you need to be a detective.

Method 1: The Job Post Look at the job posting on LinkedIn. Often, it says "Meet the hiring team" or shows the profile of the person who posted it. That’s your target.

Method 2: The Search Bar If the job post is anonymous, search for:

• "Job Title" AND "Manager" AND "Company Name"
• Example: "Sales Manager" AND "Salesforce" or "Director of Engineering" AND "Stripe"

Look for people in the specific department and location of the job.

Method 3: Content Search Search posts for: "I'm hiring" AND "Role Name". Managers often post about openings before they hit the job board.

Step 2: The Connection Request (The Hook)

Do not send a blank connection request. Do not send a "salesy" request.

The "Soft" Approach:

"Hi [Name], I noticed you lead the [Team Name] team at [Company]. I’ve been following your work on [Project] and love how you approach [Topic]. Would love to connect!"

The "Direct" Approach:

"Hi [Name], I see you're hiring for a [Role]. I applied online but wanted to briefly introduce myself. I have 3 years of experience in [Key Skill] and have helped scale [Similar Project]. Hope to connect!"

Step 3: The Follow-Up Message (The Pitch)

Once they accept, you have one shot. Keep it under 100 words.

Script 1: The "Problem Solver"

"Hi [Name], thanks for connecting.

I see you’re looking for a [Role] to help with [Specific Goal mentioned in JD]. At my last company, I solved a similar problem by [Action], which resulted in [Outcome].

I’d love to bring that experience to your team. I’ve attached my resume here. No pressure to reply, just wanted to put a face to the application."

Script 2: The "Portfolio" (Best for Creative/Tech)

"Hi [Name],

I’m a huge fan of [Company]’s app. I noticed [Specific UI/UX detail] could be optimized, so I mocked up a quick redesign to show how it could improve conversion by ~10%.

Here is the link: [Link]

I applied for the Designer role and would love to walk you through my thought process if you're open to it."

---

💡 Is Your Resume "Manager Ready"?

Hiring Managers care about results, not buzzwords. Does your resume clearly state your impact? Check it now with the PrepCareers Resume Scanner.

---

The "Don'ts" of Messaging Managers

1. Don't Ask for "Coffee": They are busy. Asking for 30 minutes of their time is a big ask. Asking them to look at a resume takes 30 seconds.
2. Don't Be Entitled: "Review my resume and let me know." No. Be polite. "I'd love for you to take a glance."
3. Don't Copy-Paste Generic Fluff: "I am a hard worker looking for a challenge." Be specific about their problems.

What if They Don't Reply?

It’s not personal. They are busy.

• Wait 5 days.
• Send a polite bump: "Hi [Name], just bubbling this up in case it got buried. I remain very interested in the [Role]. Best, [Your Name]."
• Move on. Do not send a third email.

This direct approach is highly effective for roles that require proactivity, like Project Manager and Executive Assistant, where your initiative is part of the skillset being evaluated.

Conclusion

Messaging the hiring manager is a power move. It differentiates you from the 500 applicants who just clicked "Apply." Even if they don't interview you for this role, they might remember you for the next one.

Your Action Plan:

1. Apply for the job online first.
2. Find the manager on LinkedIn.
3. Send a personalized connection request.
4. Pitch your value, not your need.

Ready to ace the interview once they reply? Start practicing your answers today at PrepCareers.