Customizing Your Default Message in Nimble Connect
When a teacher is matched with your school through Nimble Connect, you can reach out to express interest. Teachers are more likely to respond to your outreach when you include a short, personalized message. To make this easier, Nimble Connect includes a default message that goes out on your behalf when you connect with a match, so you don't have to start from scratch each time.
What is the default message to candidates?
The default message is a customizable template that appears pre-filled when you reach out to a teacher through Connect. This is an opportunity to introduce yourself and your school and invite the candidate to take a next step, like scheduling a call. You can edit it any time from your profile, and you'll always have the option to adjust it before sending it to any individual candidate.
How to update your default message
Log in to Nimble Connect using your unique link.
Navigate to your profile preferences, by selecting your account in the top right corner of the page. Then click school profile & settings.
3. Locate the Connection Settings field.
4. Edit the message to reflect your school's voice and anything specific you'd like candidates to know.
5. Save your changes.
If you don't set a default message, the field will be blank each time you connect with a prospect — meaning you'll need to type something from scratch every time, or risk sending an empty message.
Best practices: What to include
The default message is a great opportunity to set the tone before a formal interview. Teachers are more likely to respond when you include:
A brief, warm intro to your school or team culture
What makes your school a great place to teach
A clear next step (e.g., "I'd love to set up a 20–30 minute call to tell you more about the role")
Here is a sample message you can use:
“Hi {Candidate Name}, I'm hiring a {Grade Level} {Subject} teacher at {School Name} and think you could be a great fit. Our school is {one sentence about what makes your school distinctive — e.g., "a Title I school with a tight-knit staff and strong admin support"}. Would you be open to a short call this week?”
Best practices: What to avoid
Teachers tend to respond less often when messages include:
Job posting links. Nimble Connect is not an application platform. Teachers have already been matched with you and are open to conversation. Sending a link to apply can feel like a step backward and may reduce the likelihood they respond.
Generic compliments. Phrases like "your profile is impressive!" or "you'd be a great fit!" without any specifics feel impersonal. Teachers notice.
Long messages. Shorter messages consistently perform better. If it takes more than a few seconds to read, it's probably too long.
Formal language. Teachers prefer outreach messages that are warm and conversational, not stiff and overly formal.
Generic messages are easy to spot. A message that reflects your school's personality makes teachers more likely to respond to you over the other outreach they’re receiving.
If you have questions, reach out to [email protected].
Not on Connect yet? Districts on Connect tap into an active, pre-screened network of teacher job seekers. Wondering if it's a fit for your district? Schedule a quick call.