This is my new reply when I get a generic LinkedIn request, write back with a welcoming personal note and accept, then immediately get the sales pitch…

“So you connected in order to simply pitch me… not even a hello, how are you, buy me a cocktail before propositioning me. You don’t even know me, sent me a generic connection request, then when I open the door for you, instead of shaking my hand and getting to know me… you come right out with a sales pitch. Seriously???

Dude… time to get some relationship building game. Good luck on your next pitch… not interested. Make it a great weekend :-)”

Here is my Facebook post on the same topic and the comments and interactions it inspired…