Message an alum for a short informational call

About this exercise

You want a 20-minute call with an alum who works where you'd like to work. Write a LinkedIn message under 70 words, plain text: one specific reason you're writing to her (from her profile), a clear ask for a 20-minute call with two time options, and no attachments or job requests. Don't open with "I hope this finds you well." Write a prompt that gets you exactly that.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

• Trusting the AI to count words. AI is bad at counting. Ask for "under 70 words" and it often lands well over. Try: Cap each part instead: "4 sentences, each under 16 words."
• A generic opener. The AI starts with "I hope this message finds you well" and a long intro. Try: Add: "No pleasantries. Open with one specific reason from her profile."
• A vague ask. "Would love to connect sometime!" gives her nothing to say yes to. Try: Add: "Ask for 20 minutes and offer Tue Nov 18 after 2 or Thu Nov 20 before noon."
• Asking for a job. The AI mentions the open role or attaches a resume, which turns a chat into a favor. Try: Add: "Don't mention the open role or my resume."
• Ignoring where it will be pasted. AI loves bold and headings, which show up as stray ** and # symbols in LinkedIn. Try: Name the place and the format: "For LinkedIn. Plain text, no bold or headings."

What a strong prompt includes

• Gives a specific reason
• Offers two times
• Rules out job asks
• Bans pleasantries
• Sets a word limit

Practice this now ↑

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