Appropriateness of Connecting with Hiring Managers on LinkedIn Before HR

The decision to reach out to a hiring manager or someone at a company through LinkedIn before speaking to HR can vary based on the situation. While it is not always the best approach, there can be instances where it is perfectly appropriate and even beneficial.

When it is Appropriate to Connect with a Hiring Manager on LinkedIn

Reaching out to a hiring manager on LinkedIn before contacting HR can be advantageous, especially if you are targeting a specific role or project. However, it is crucial to maintain a professional and respectful tone in your message. Ensure that your outreach is relevant to the hiring manager’s work and avoid being too pushy or overbearing.

In some cases, contacting HR first might be more appropriate, particularly if you are unsure who to approach. This approach can offer a safer and more structured pathway.

Common Scenarios and Responses

Scenario 1: Direct Guidance

The most likely response from a hiring manager after seeing a direct LinkedIn message is:

“Thank you for reaching out. Please reply directly through our HR department. If we think you might be a good fit, we will be in contact.”

Other Favorable Responses

However, the following responses are also possible, and each offers valuable information:

“Thank you. But not really what we are looking for at this time.”

This quick feedback is much more effective than the typical HR response times and helps you to know where you stand.

“Resume is great. Do this when applying to HR and we will get an interview scheduled soon.”

This gives you a chance to formally apply through HR and prompts an interview.

“Unfortunately not a fit for this specific job. But there is this other one we could discuss.”

This response not only tells you that you are not a fit for the current position but also opens other potential opportunities within the company.

I guarantee that you have never received the following response:

“Wow. This is the greatest resume in the history of mankind. It is so beyond perfect that we would have offered you a salary 3x the normal listing for this role, along with offering 3 additional weeks of vacation time fully included. But because you applied through here and not HR, we will not consider your application. Shame on you. You did this to yourself.”

This response is highly unlikely and would be seen as inappropriate and unprofessional.

Connecting with Interviewers or Hiring Managers on LinkedIn

Connecting with interviewers or hiring managers on LinkedIn is a common practice. Make sure to include a personal message with your connection request. This not only helps you stand out among other candidates but also serves as a friendly reminder of who you are and the interest you have in working with them.

Network and Research Through LinkedIn

While it is acceptable to use LinkedIn for networking and research, it is important to maintain a professional approach. Use LinkedIn to learn more about the company culture and how employees feel about their experience. However, it is not appropriate to directly ask a hiring manager if they have a job for you. Such a request would be considered inappropriate and unprofessional.