5 Tips for Writing A LinkedIn InMail That Will Get Results

LinkedIn is a powerful platform that helps connect business professionals. It has a numerous amount of tools and functions so don’t worry if you are unsure about how to use them all!

The tool I wanted to focus on was LinkedIn InMail messages. Although some people find them worthless, when written with quality and care they can have a compelling impact on starting a conversation that can advance your business goals.

So what is LinkedIn InMail? According to LinkedIn, “InMail messages are messages that can be sent directly to a member that you are not connected to.” To send an InMail you must upgrade to a premium account. The number of monthly InMail messages you can send depends on the account you have.

LinkedIn InMail is a great way to start a conversation about a business opportunity, new venture, reference request or for recruiting purposes. The quality of your message will determine the results you get.

Here are some best practice tips & guidelines you can follow to make sure your InMail messages get you results:

1) Use the Category Field & Create a Catchy Subject Line

Your subject line is the first impression your prospect gets! You want to ensure this subject line is appealing and ‘intrigues’ them. I’m not talking about the typical “New Job Opportunity”, “Business Deal” or “Trying to Get In Touch”.

Would you open any of those?

Make the subject line personable, and creative. Relate it to that individual! An example of this would be, “Congratulations on Your Promotion at XYZ!” or “Is This Right for You (insert name of person)?”

TEST, TEST, TEST … try out different subject lines and see which ones work best! If you find one is gaining traction and responses more than others, stick to it.

2) Introduce Yourself

Would you approach someone at a networking event and present a business deal or start a conversation without introducing yourself? My guess is NO. This applies to InMail messages as well! Make sure to tell the person who you are and how you can benefit them.

3) Keep the Message Brief & to the Point

Let’s face it, we’re all busy. Writing a lengthy message will be a turnoff which will result in no response. No one wants to hear a sales pitch on the phone or in person, and they definitely will not want to read one in a message. You want an InMail to start a conversation so keep it short, sweet and to the point. Don’t be afraid to use a clear call to action and be sure to relate your message back to them and how you can help them achieve their goals.

Since professionals are spending an increased amount of time on their mobile devices, ensure your message fits on the screen. If it doesn’t, shorten it.

4) Personalize It & Do Your Homework

People want to feel special. Do your homework about who you are messaging. Do you have any common connections? Did they just get a promotion? Is their common ground you can build bond & rapport on?

Show the person you’re messaging that you made an effort and you care. Be different from the remainder of the messages they get and I guarantee you will get a response.

An example of this happened to me recently. I had someone message me congratulating Intrigue on being nominated for a Chamber Award. It immediately caught my interest and I responded instantaneously.

5) Be Yourself

Always remember to be yourself and show your personality! Don’t be afraid to display some humour (as long as it’s appropriate). This is what will help them relate to you and remember who you are.

Use your personal voice and express interest in helping them achieve their goals! If you’ve written a recent article or blog that you think would benefit them, don’t be afraid to include it in bottom of your message.

These are just a few simple guidelines to keep in mind next time you are writing an InMail. If you would like to learn more, or aren’t sure how InMail messages can help your business, call us today 519-265-4933.  

Tricia wants to ensure your experience with Intrigue is awesome! She helps non-profits, businesses, and communities grow together. Tricia assists the sales team in business development. Outside of work she is an avid tea drinker, world traveller and loves getting active and cooking healthy.