In a world where job applications often feel like shouting into the void, cold messaging real people on LinkedIn can be a foot in the right direction. It's personal. It's direct. And when done right, it might just land you a conversation with the right person who will change your career trajectory. In college, I was astonished to see my friends getting internships and full-time roles at tech companies simply because they cold DM'ed someone on LinkedIn.
I've later learned to use it to connect with people I admire, land coffee chats, do mock interviews before an upcoming interview, and even get referrals for my dream internship experience. If you're job-hunting, switching careers, or just curious about a role, cold DMs can open doors that online applications alone rarely do.
Why Cold DMs Matter (Especially Now)
- Cold DMs open hidden doors: Not every opportunity is posted publicly. Sometimes, the best roles, mentorships, and interview invites come from conversations, not applications.A cold DM puts you directly in touch with someone who can offer insight, make an intro, or even refer you internally.
- Access real people, not just portals: When it comes to applying to jobs, cold message skips the black hole of job boards and puts you in direct contact with decision-makers or people who've been where you want to go.
- Most people want to help: If you're polite, specific, and sincere, many professionals especially those who've received help in their own journey are happy to pay it forward.
The #1 Rule of Cold Messaging
Keep it short, warm, and specific. Focus on learning more about them rather than sharing everything about you only. Make it easy for the person to say yes. Let them know what you have in common (e.g. alma mater, interest, background).
Here are 3 tested templates I've personally used that consistently get replies:
1. No Connection Yet, But You Admire Their Work
Scenario: You found their podcast, blog, interview, or project inspiring.
Template:
Hey [Name], I [genuine appreciation for their work].
I am preparing for [similar things you're working on]. Would you have 15 minutes to chat?
Example:
Hey X, I re-listened to your podcast with Y many times because it was so helpful, so thank you!
I'm preparing for the dual degree program at Z. Would you have 15 minutes to chat?
Reply:
X: So sweet, yes!
2. Shared Interest or Role
Scenario: You share the same role, college major, or career path.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I'm [Your Name], a [college year] at [university] studying [major]. I [mention similarity].
(Optional) I have a goal to [goal]. I'm [progress].
Would you be open to a quick [coffee chat/mock interview]? I'd really appreciate your feedback!
Example:
Hi X,
I'm Y, a senior at Z College studying neuroscience and CS. I'm a PM intern at Z. I noticed you're an APM!
I have a goal to do 60 mocks—I'm 1/5 of the way there. Would you have time for a mock?
Reply:
X: Let's do a 30-min mock! Here's my calendar.
3. Shared Community: Alumni, School, Employer, etc.
Scenario: You have a concrete connection like a school, company, or scholarship.
Template:
Hi [Name],
I'm applying to [role] and noticed you're a [role/major] at [institution].
I'm a [college year] studying [major]. Would you be open to a quick coffee chat about your experience?
-Best, [Initials]
Example:
Hi X,
I'm applying to the Associate Consultant Intern role as a Y Scholar. I noticed you were a psych major at Z College! I'm a junior studying computational neuroscience.
Would you be open to chatting about your experience at the firm?
–Best, SH
Reply:
X: I actually just left the firm, but happy to share more about my experience!
Final Tips Before You Send
- Customize your message. Tailor it to them.
- Make it easy to say yes. Be clear and respectful of their time.
- Follow up once if no response. People get busy—don't take silence personally.
- Practice! Try sending 5 DMs daily. You'll improve with every message.
What's the Worst That Could Happen?
You never know who's one message away from changing your life. Cold DMs take courage—but each reply gets you closer to your dream opportunity.
Now it's your turn. Copy a template, personalize it, and hit send!
For more content, follow me @raiseavillage on TikTok where I share career and college tips that help you get unstuck with your career and get in the room.
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