Getting a lot of friend requests from people you don’t know, but are friends of friends? I always accept those requests (if the person does not seem like they are spammers.) Recently, I tested out a reply message to this type of friend request. Here’s my reply message:

Hi,
Thanks for the friend request! I see that we have some friends in common and thought I would tell you a little more about myself. I own a business called Cultural Sponge specializing in graphic design, websites, marketing and strategic twitter accounts. I am the official graphic design company for Phoenix Pride and other local organizations. You can check out my work at www.culturalsponge.com
I would love to know more about you and your company!
Have a great day!
Heather

This is a non intrusive way to say- Hi, since we are now friends, let me tell you what I do and how I can help you! I received several positive reactions and learn that my new friends are either business owners or know business owners that I can help and I even got a few appointments.

So, next time you get a friend request from a friend of a friend, don’t ignore it, use it to your advantage!