I genuinely enjoy technology—Apps, texting, email, the internet, social media, and yes, AI—especially when it’s used to strengthen our efforts in business, ministry, and even in our personal life.
That said, I need to share something that doesn’t sit right with me: those automatic networking messages on LinkedIn. I know what I’m saying is probably not popular but you’ll always get what I’m really thinking if you engage with me verbally or in writing.
Those auto-messages–You know the ones. Someone sends a connection request and you think, “This might be a good person to connect with.” So you accept—and within seconds, you’re met with a long, generic, salesy message in your inbox. It sounds like he or she is smiling at you, but it’s all pre-written. It doesn’t seem authentic. No real attempt to connect—just a pitch.
This is one of the main reasons I hesitated to fully embrace LinkedIn for years. It often felt more like a cold transaction than a meaningful interaction. And while I absolutely understand that business owners want to grow their reach, make sales, and gain exposure (I’m a businesswoman myself), there’s a better way.
People still need real connection. We are not robots. We are human. That means communication still matters. Thoughtfulness still matters. And relationships still matter—even online.
Here’s how to build the know-like-trust factor in a better way:
1. Engage person to person:
When you send a connection request, take the time to write a short, personal message. Introduce yourself. Say why you’d like to connect. Ask something about them—not just what they do, but who they are. Don’t lead with a pitch. Lead with a handshake and a smile (even if it’s virtual).
2. Do your homework:
Before you send that message inviting someone to buy your product, join your list, or sign up for your service—pause. Look at their profile. Does what you offer actually align with who they are or what they do? Why pitch middle school services to a woman in her 60s? Or business coaching to someone who’s clearly a business coach herself? Taking a moment to review a person’s content or experience makes a difference.
3. Treat people like people:
It’s not just about getting a sale or adding a number to your network. It’s about making a real connection. That means writing with kindness, not gimmicks. It means starting with a greeting (have we forgotten the power of salutations?) and ending with a warm close. It means being present—even for a few seconds—and valuing the other person’s time.
Let me give you an example from my own experience:
A woman recently reached out to connect on LinkedIn. I liked what I saw in her bio and accepted. But moments later, (even faster than the time it took for me to lift up my coffee cup), an auto message landed in my inbox. It was long, impersonal, and filled with that salesy sparkle that actually made it feel… cold.
Still, I responded. I greeted her, acknowledged what I appreciated about her profile, shared that I wasn’t interested in her offer, and kindly closed the message. Seconds later—another auto response, pitching me again. That’s when I knew we weren’t going to truly connect.
Here’s the bottom line–If we’re too busy to form real connections, then why are we in business or ministry in the first place?
I believe in using technology to support meaningful work—but not at the expense of basic human connection. A quick personal message might take an extra minute, but it just might build the bridge to a real relationship.
Auto messages may work for some, but if you want to stand out—some things are still better…
Make the time.
Take the time.
Build real connections
It will pay off in the end and you just may obtain a great new business or ministry friend in addition to a client.
Thanks for taking the time to pop in and read!
Blessings and love,
Lisa Shaw
Founder & CEO of LisaShawCares, LLC
Personal, Executive & Mindset Coach | Speaker (Business & Ministry) | Business Strategist | Author
Equipping Christian Women Entrepreneurs, Small Business Owners, and Leaders
Clarity • Money Mindset • Messaging • Leadership • Purposeful Growth
Ready to Take the Next Step? Book a Power Session
Copyright @2025 LisaShawCares.com
