After analyzing 20,000+ LinkedIn messages that generated 150+ calls, I've distilled successful outreach down to a precise science. Here's the exact formula that consistently delivers 20%+ reply rates:

PART 1: THE ATTENTION HOOK (4-7 words)

This is the make-or-break moment. You must pattern-interrupt in the first 4-7 words or lose them forever.

Three proven hooks that get responses:

• Observation hook: "Noticed your recent [specific achievement]"
• Common connection hook: "[Name], saw we both know [mutual connection]"
• Targeted question hook: "[Name], struggling with [specific problem]?"

Example: "Sam, saw your Series B announcement."

PART 2: THE RELEVANCE BRIDGE (7-10 words)

Connect your message directly to their current situation, challenge, or goal.

Three bridge patterns that work:

• Industry challenge bridge: "Many [their industry] leaders face [specific challenge] right now."
• Growth-stage bridge: "Companies at your stage often struggle with [relevant challenge]."
• Result-gap bridge: "The gap between [current state] and [desired outcome] is typically [pain point]."

Example: "Most fintech founders struggle with compliance delays post-funding."

PART 3: THE CREDIBILITY PROOF (8-12 words)

Establish your authority with a specific, measurable result you've created for others like them.

Three credibility frameworks:

• Specific result format: "We've helped [similar company] achieve [specific outcome] in [timeframe]."
• Numerical proof format: "Our [solution] typically reduces [pain point] by [specific percentage]."