Use AI for Networking and Outreach: Better LinkedIn Messages and Stronger Connections

5 May 2026 · 2 min

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2:26

TJ Walker shows how to use AI to write personalized LinkedIn messages that actually work. Instead of generic requests, describe who you're reaching out to and what you want, then have AI draft a message and refine it twice. He walks through summarizing someone's recent posts and crafting follow-ups after you connect.

Chapters

Ultimize. Networking is one of the most important skills in building a career, but most people either avoid it or do it poorly. They think, oh, I hate going to those networking events and tossing out business cards and collecting business cards. That's not what we're talking about. We're not talking about sending out more generic messages. Most people do not follow up and they do not create real connections. AI can help you do this much better. Let me show you exactly how. Imagine you want to reach out to someone on LinkedIn, for example, someone working in a job you want. Most people send a message like, I would like to connect. It doesn't stand out. Instead, you go to AI, you describe the person's role and your goal. For example, I want to connect with a marketing manager at a tech company and ask for advice. Then you ask, write a short message that is specific and respectful. Now you have a better starting point. Then you can refine it. Ask, make this more personal. Ask, make this shorter. Ask, make this sound more genuine. You can also ask it to summarize everything this person has posted on recently and how you can make a comment, a commentary on something they've posted showing You care about them and their ideas. Now your message is stronger. Another example, you wanna follow up after someone accepts your connection request on LinkedIn. You ask AI, what's a good follow-up message that does not sound pushy or like an obvious marketing ploy of here's another person who wants to get me on a sales call and waste an hour of my time. You don't wanna sound like that. AI can give you better options. You can choose one that fits your style. Another example, you attend an event and meet someone briefly. You wanna follow up the next day. You tell AI what you talked about, then ask, write a follow-up message that references our conversation. This is an underutilized tool, but it's so much more effective. Now your message feels real and specific. Your exercise now is very practical. Pick one person you wanna connect with. Use AI to draft your outreach message, then refine it not just once but twice, because better outreach leads to better opportunities.