We’ve all gotten them, messages obviously from bots. In fact, some of us ignore LinkedIn DMs almost as much as we ignore Twitter DMs. So how can you best utilize this professional networking tool?
About LI Messaging and InMail
LinkedIn messaging allows you to direct message your first-degree connections. You can also send a message when you send a connection request (which we will primarily address here).
InMail, a service of Sales Navigator users of LinkedIn, allows you to message 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections with open profiles. InMail has a subject line and is therefore used more like email than direct messaging.
Here are a few Dos and Don’ts of LinkedIn messaging.
Dos
Introduce yourself. Yes, your name is right there; you probably don’t need to repeat it as in “Hi, my name is Terra L. Fletcher.” But do let them know who you are. Many of the connections I request on LinkedIn happen after we’ve exchanged business cards at an in-person event, or I’ve looked them up after a virtual event. Start by reminding them of your connection. “We meet at the business luncheon. I appreciated your input on resolving supply chain issues.”
Be brief. Business Insider reports, “LinkedIn found messages with 100 words or less increase your chances at getting a response, but those with over 200 words decrease the likelihood.”
Know your purpose. Don’t send messages without a purpose. Are you looking to grow your network? Are you trying to connect with people in the same role and seeking peer advisors? Are you looking for mentors or customers? Don’t just connect for the sake of inflating your numbers.
Be direct. Tell them why you’re writing.
Use their name. A tell-tale sign that a message is from a bot or that they used the message prompts is when a message to me says, “Hello, Terra L.” Real humans just call me “Terra.” If you’re sending an email, put their name in the subject line. In 2014, they found this increased open rates by 26%.Though the stat is a little dated, I’m sure it’s still good practice to include their name.
Get personal. The way I see it, if they shared it on LinkedIn, it’s fair game. Take a look at their profile. What do you genuinely find interesting? (If someone messaged me and said, “How did you find time to write two books while doing consulting?” My ego would be stroked, and I’d respond.
Close. Revist your purpose. Can you ask them for something that will get you closer to your goal? “May I call you Thursday afternoon?”
That being said, if you don’t know the person, you might leave the call to action part off. Your goal might be just to make the connection. After they’ve accepted you, look for opportunities to engage on LinkedIn. Leave meaningful comments on their posts or send them a message to share a gem that resonated with you. “Susan, I wanted to drop a quick note to tell you how impressed I am by all the training you’re doing with your organization right now. It’s clear to me that your company means it when they say continuous learning is a key value!” Or try asking a question to keep the conversation going. “I’m curious, how has the labor shortage impacted your hiring process?”
Say, “Thank you!” A little graciousness goes a long way.
Don’ts
Don’t cold message without a good reason. If you’d like to connect with someone you don’t know, be sure to include why you’re reaching out. “LinkedIn suggested you as someone I might know. We have 72 shared connections, and it’s hard to believe our paths haven’t crossed already!” or “I see you’re interested in supply chain management, and I’m curious about your work with the local nonprofit. If you’re open to connecting, perhaps we can get a virtual cup of coffee.”
Don’t be afraid to follow up. If your message doesn’t get a response on LinkedIn, it might just be because they don’t check it that often. If you have their email address or phone number, try reaching out another way. This info might even be on their business card, website, or LinkedIn profile. If they share it, they’re open to contact!
What are your dos and don’ts? Have you gotten a LinkedIn message that you loved or loathed? Feel free to DM me!
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