Written by: Vickie Sullivan | August 21, 2025
Are Your LinkedIn Invitations Being Ignored? Here’s Why
Is it just me, or are you also getting deluged with LinkedIn invitations from folks who only want to sell you something?
When these invitations first started, I would accept them because I thought these consultants or speakers wanted to read my blog posts or pick my brain. Silly me. Almost immediately after accepting the LinkedIn invitation, they’d send me a promotion for their book or mastermind program along with an invitation to talk about “my growth.” Seriously?!?
I don’t think I’m the only one this is happening to.
It seems a lot of social media sales “experts” recommend the same flood-the-field approach. I’ve learned my lesson, though. Now, I won’t accept LinkedIn invitations unless I’ve met the person at a conference or someone I trust has referred me. And I’ll disconnect from anyone who pitches me within the first three messages.
This dynamic begs a bigger question: Is LinkedIn as a networking platform losing engagement? I think it is, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still use it effectively. If you want people to accept your LinkedIn invitations, here’s what I suggest:
1. Include a personal note about why you want to connect. Be specific. Do you want to learn more about their industry? Are they a good fit for your clients? Do you want to trade war stories? If you are looking for opportunities, be straightforward about it. Transparency goes a long way.
2. Do not pitch immediately. For the sake of all that is holy, DO NOT pitch anything in the first five interactions. Instead, comment on their posts, share your thoughts, and engage with their content. If you want to ask a private question, message them—but keep it conversational, not salesy.
Look, I we’re all searching for new business. But if you come across as part of the deluge, people will ignore you and your LinkedIn invitations. It’s time to rethink how we connect on networking platforms like LinkedIn more thoughtfully.
Now Read This:
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