What is LinkedIn InMail?
LinkedIn InMail is like a secret weapon in your professional networking arsenal. It’s a premium feature that lets you message LinkedIn members you’re not connected with directly. Think of it as breaking through the barriers of traditional networking!
Unlike regular LinkedIn messages that only work with your connections, InMail opens doors to a whole new world of possibilities. It’s your ticket to reaching out to potential clients, collaborators, or even that dream employer you’ve been eyeing.
But here’s the kicker – InMail isn’t just another messaging system. It’s designed to get you noticed. When you send an InMail, it lands right in the recipient’s LinkedIn inbox and their email. Talk about making an entrance!
As Alex Rodriguez, a LinkedIn marketing guru, often says, “InMail is like having a VIP pass at a networking event. It gets you face-to-face with the people who matter most to your professional growth.”
Types of InMails and Credits
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of InMail types and credits. There are three flavors of InMail to choose from:
- Paid InMails
- Free InMails
- Sponsored InMails
Paid InMails are part of LinkedIn’s premium subscriptions. Depending on your plan, you get a certain number of credits each month. For instance, Premium Career gives you 5 credits, while Sales Navigator users enjoy a whopping 50 credits per month.
Free InMails are a bit of a hidden gem. They’re available to all LinkedIn users, but here’s the catch – you can only send them to members with “Open Profile” status. It’s like finding a secret passage in a maze!
Sponsored InMails are the big guns of LinkedIn advertising. They’re used for marketing campaigns and can reach a wider audience based on specific targeting criteria.
Here’s a pro tip: If someone responds to your InMail within 90 days, you get that credit back. It’s LinkedIn’s way of saying, “Good job on writing a compelling message!”
Crafting Compelling InMails
Alright, you’ve got your InMail credits ready to go. But how do you make sure your message doesn’t end up in the digital trash can? Let’s break it down:
Subject Lines That Sizzle
Your subject line is your first impression. Make it count! Keep it short, snappy, and intriguing. For example, “Quick question about your recent project” or “Loved your thoughts on AI – can we chat?”
Personalization is Key
Nobody likes to feel like they’re just another name on a list. Show that you’ve done your homework. Reference a recent post they’ve made or a mutual connection. As Alex puts it, “Personalization is the difference between a cold call and a warm introduction.”
Keep it Short and Sweet
Remember, busy professionals don’t have time to read a novel. Get to the point quickly and clearly. Aim for 2-3 short paragraphs max.
End with a Clear Call-to-Action
What do you want to happen next? A call? A meeting? Make it easy for the recipient to say yes.
Here’s an example of an effective InMail:
Subject: Impressed by your AI insights
Hi [Name],
I just read your LinkedIn post about AI in marketing and was blown away by your insights. Your point about [specific detail] really resonated with me.
I’m working on a similar project at [Your Company]. Would you be open to a quick 15-minute call next week to exchange ideas?
Looking forward to potentially connecting,
[Your Name]
Sending and Managing InMails
Ready to send your first InMail? Here’s how to do it:
- Navigate to the profile of the person you want to contact
- Click on the “More” button
- Select “Message”
- Craft your message (don’t forget that killer subject line!)
- Hit send and cross your fingers!
To keep track of your InMail credits, head to your LinkedIn settings. Under the “Communications” tab, you’ll find “Messaging experience” where you can see your remaining credits.
Remember, your credits renew monthly based on your billing cycle, not necessarily on the first of each month. It’s like getting a fresh batch of networking opportunities every month!
InMail vs Other Outreach Channels
So, how does InMail stack up against other ways of reaching out? Let’s break it down:
Compared to cold emails, InMails have a much higher open rate – we’re talking about 3 times higher! It’s like the difference between shouting in a crowded room and having a one-on-one conversation.
When it comes to connection requests, InMails have the advantage of letting you explain why you’re reaching out right off the bat. No need for that awkward “So… why did you want to connect?” follow-up.
Regular LinkedIn messages are great, but they’re limited to your existing network. InMail lets you expand your reach beyond your immediate connections.
As Alex often says, “InMail is like having a backstage pass at a concert. It gets you access to people who might otherwise be out of reach.”
FAQs
Do LinkedIn InMails go to email?
Yes, recipients get a notification in their LinkedIn inbox and their connected email address.
How do I know if someone read my InMail?
Unfortunately, LinkedIn doesn’t provide read receipts for InMails. But if you’re using Sales Navigator, you can see if your message is “awaiting response,” “accepted,” or “declined.”
What happens if someone declines my InMail?
Don’t worry, you get that credit back! LinkedIn wants to encourage meaningful connections, not spam.
What’s the average InMail response rate?
According to LinkedIn, InMails have an average response rate between 18% and 25%. That’s pretty impressive compared to cold emails!
Is it better to send an InMail or a connection request?
It depends on your goal. InMails are great for direct outreach, while connection requests are better for building your network over time.
Can I automate my InMail sending?
While there are tools that claim to automate InMails, it’s generally against LinkedIn’s terms of service. Plus, personalized messages tend to perform much better!