Are you struggling to grab attention on LinkedIn? You’re not alone. With only 3 seconds to capture your reader’s interest, your hook is everything. It’s the difference between getting noticed or being ignored.
After writing 1000+ LinkedIn posts, I’ve developed these proven LinkedIn hook templates that consistently stop the scroll. Each template is customisable for any industry and comes with real examples. You only have 3 seconds to grab attention on LinkedIn.
Why You Need Strong LinkedIn Hook Templates
Most people waste their precious opening seconds with “I’m excited to announce…” But in the time it takes to sip your coffee, your audience has already scrolled past your post.
These LinkedIn hook templates will help you:
• Capture attention in seconds
• Drive more engagement
• Build your professional authority
• Convert scrollers into readers
10 Proven LinkedIn Hook Templates
1. The Contrast Hook Template
“It takes only [short time] to [simple action].
Yet, [desired outcome] can take [longer time].”
Example (Recruiting):
“It takes only 6 seconds to scan a CV.
Yet most candidates spend hours writing the wrong things.”
Why it works: Shows the gap between effort and results.
2. The Universal Pain Point Hook Template
“[Common struggle]?
(We’ve all been there!)
It’s frustrating when [pain point].
Here are [number] [solutions] I use when [situation].”
Example (Marketing):
“Zero engagement on your posts?
(We’ve all been there!)
It’s frustrating when content falls flat.
Here are 3 strategies I use when clients feel stuck.”
Why it works: Validates feelings while promising solutions
3. The Journey Hook Template
“I started [what] in [year].
I shared [specific focus].
My [result] grew [how].
Example (Bookkeper):
“I started bookkeeping in 2018.
I helped small businesses find hidden profits.
My client base doubled from referrals who saved £££ in deductions.”
Why it works: Creates investment in the transformation story.
4. The Pain Point Listicle Hook Template
“You have [positive asset], but worry about:
- [Pain point 1]
- [Pain point 2]
- [Pain point 3]”
Example Bookkeeping:
“You have a profitable business, but worry about:
- Missing tax deductions
- Messy financial records
- Cash flow surprises.”
Why it works: Names unspoken fears that keep people up at night
5. The Benefit Listicle Hook Template
“You know [platform/tool] is crucial for:
- [Benefit 1]
- [Benefit 2]
But are you [missing opportunity question]?”
Example (Personal Branding):
“You know LinkedIn is crucial for:
- Building authority
- Growing networks
But are you leveraging your profile’s full potential?”
Why it works: Acknowledges knowledge while hinting at gaps.
6. The authority Hook Template
“I’ve [impressive metric] for [specific audience].
Here’s what I’ve learned ⤵”
Example (Sales):
“I’ve closed 1000+ deals for B2B tech companies.
Here’s what I’ve learned ⤵”
Why it works: Establishes credibility through specific results
7. The Simplification Hook Template
“People overcomplicate [topic].
As a [role], I’ve noticed [number] [things] that are working right now:”
Example (Social Media):
“People overcomplicate Instagram growth.
As a strategist, I’ve noticed 3 tactics that are working right now:”
Why it works: Promises to simplify overwhelming topics
8. Story Tease Hook Template
“A [person] trusted me with [specific situation].
I turned it into [action/result].
You won’t believe what happened next!”
Example (Real Estate):
“A family trusted me with their impossible house hunt.
I turned it into their dream home purchase.
You won’t believe what happened next!”
Why it works: Uses curiosity and emotional investment.
9. Lesson Learned Hook Template
“More [resource] means more [benefit]. Who knew?
I thought I was [misconception].”
Example (Fitness):
“More recovery means more strength. Who knew?
I thought I was just wasting precious training time.”
Why it works: Shares counter-intuitive insights through personal experience
10. Common Mistake Hook Template
“If you’re [role] doing [task], you’re likely making this mistake:”
Example (Content Creation):
“If you’re a creator making daily content, you’re likely making this mistake:”
Why it works: Triggers curiosity about potential blind spots.
How to Customise These LinkedIn Hook Templates
- Identify your audience’s pain points
- Use specific language
- Insert relevant metrics and results
- Test different variations
If you’re new to LinkedIn, check out how to write your first LinkedIn post to get started.
Common LinkedIn Hook Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting with “I’m excited to announce.”
- Making the hook too long. Keep each line to 50 characters or less.
- Making each sentence too long. Stick to 9-12 words.
- Being too vague. Use words that your target audience will identify with.
- Missing the emotional connection.. No bueno!
Your LinkedIn Hook Success Formula
The most effective LinkedIn hooks share three key elements:
- They speak directly to a specific audience
- They promise clear value (and deliver it in the post)
- They make readers stop and think, “This is exactly what I’m dealing with right now.”
Remember: Your hook has one job: getting them to read the rest of your post. Keep testing these templates until you find what resonates with your audience.
Want personalised help with your LinkedIn content? I ghostwrite LinkedIn posts for founders to help them build authority and drive results. Is this you? Book a consultation to learn more.
Hi, I’m Julia
Originally from the US and Italy, I live in vibrant Barcelona, Spain, with my two fur babies, Faith and Agatha.
I am passionate about helping business owners stand out on LinkedIn with engaging content that enhances their personal brand.
Let’s connect on LinkedIn.
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