Yes, LinkedIn does have an instant messaging feature that allows members to send direct messages to connect and communicate. LinkedIn launched its instant messaging capability in October 2020 as part of an effort to make conversations on the platform more seamless.
With LinkedIn’s instant messaging, members can have real-time conversations to build relationships, discuss opportunities, and exchange information. It provides a quicker and more casual way to connect compared to sending InMail messages or emails.
Instant messaging is available through both LinkedIn’s desktop site and mobile app. On desktop, you can access it via the “Messaging” icon on the top nav bar. On mobile, it can be found in the LinkedIn app by tapping the “Messaging” tab at the bottom.
How Does LinkedIn Instant Messaging Work?
LinkedIn’s instant messaging allows you to have one-on-one conversations with your first-degree connections on the platform. That means you can only message people who you are directly connected to on LinkedIn.
To start a conversation, you simply need to go to a connection’s profile and click the “Message” button, which will open up a messaging window. From there, you can type and send messages in real-time, just like other instant messaging platforms.
When you send a message, the recipient will receive a notification on LinkedIn letting them know they have a new message. They can then open it and respond through the LinkedIn messaging window on desktop or mobile.
Some key things to know about LinkedIn’s instant messaging:
– You can only message your 1st-degree connections. Trying to message 2nd or 3rd-degree connections will prompt them to connect first.
– Group conversations are not supported at this time. You can only have one-on-one dialogues.
– LinkedIn messages have a 8,192 character limit per message.
– You can send attachments like images and PDF files up to 25MB in size.
– Messages are encrypted end-to-end for security and privacy.
– You can customize notifications settings for messages.
– On desktop, you’ll get message previews in the sidebar. On mobile, previews display on the messages tab.
– LinkedIn is continuing to enhance messaging with more features over time.
What Can You Use LinkedIn Messaging For?
LinkedIn designed its instant messaging as a way for members to have meaningful professional conversations and make valuable connections on the platform. Here are some of the key uses for LinkedIn messaging:
– **Following up after connecting** – If you meet someone new through LinkedIn, you can send them a message to follow up and keep the conversation going.
– **Discussing opportunities** – Have a chat with connections about potential jobs, freelance projects, speaking engagements, etc.
– **Asking for introductions** – Request an introduction to one of your connection’s contacts that you’d like to meet.
– **Getting quick answers** – If you have a quick work-related question, you can message a connection to get their input.
– **Sending notes of appreciation** – Message connections to thank them for help or referrals.
– **Sharing updates and news** – Let your network know about new developments in your business or career.
– **Connecting offline** – Take conversations offline of LinkedIn to continue in a more personal environment.
– **General conversations** – Have casual chats to build relationships, though keep it professional.
The key is to use LinkedIn messaging for substantive conversations to build your professional network and career. Avoid spamming connections with unsolicited messages.
LinkedIn Messaging vs. InMail
It’s important to understand the differences between LinkedIn’s instant messaging and InMail, since both allow you to directly message connections:
Feature | LinkedIn Instant Messaging | LinkedIn InMail |
---|---|---|
Availability | Free for all members | Only with premium subscriptions |
Character limit | 8,192 characters | Up to 10,000 characters |
Attachments | Up to 25MB | None allowed |
Message privacy | Encrypted end-to-end | Regular privacy protections |
Group messages | No | Yes |
As you can see, LinkedIn’s instant messaging provides a more informal, chat-like environment for quick conversations. InMail is better suited for lengthy, more formal communication.
How to Use LinkedIn Messaging on Desktop
Using LinkedIn’s messaging on the desktop website is easy and straightforward. Here are the steps:
1. Click the “Messaging” icon in the top navigation bar. It looks like a speech bubble.
2. On the Messaging page, click the “Compose new message” button in the top-right corner.
3. Start typing the name of the connection you want to message. Matching connections will populate below. Select the correct person.
4. The messaging window will open. Type your message in the text box at the bottom.
5. Hit enter or click the paper airplane icon to send your message.
6. The recipient will receive your message instantly and can respond back to continue the conversation.
7. To revisit conversations, click “Messaging” in the top nav bar again. Your message threads will be listed on the left.
Be sure to customize your notification settings so you receive alerts when receiving new messages. This allows you to respond in a timely manner and have seamless conversations.
How to Use LinkedIn Messaging on Mobile
On mobile, LinkedIn messaging works similarly but within the LinkedIn app. Here are the steps:
1. Tap the “Messaging” icon on the bottom navigation bar. It looks like a speech bubble.
2. Tap the pencil icon in the top-right corner to start a new message.
3. Type the name of the connection you want to message and select the correct match.
4. The messaging window will open. Type and send your message.
5. The recipient will receive a notification and can respond back.
6. To view your conversations, go to the Messaging tab. Tap any conversation to open the thread.
Make sure you enable notifications within the LinkedIn app so that you get alerts for new messages right on your mobile device.
LinkedIn Messaging Etiquette
When using LinkedIn’s messaging feature, be mindful of proper professional etiquette. Here are some tips:
– **Introduce yourself** – Refresh your connection’s memory of who you are and how you’re connected.
– **Be concise** – Get to the point of your message quickly and avoid overly long messages.
– **Avoid spamming** – Don’t randomly message people unsolicited content. Only message with a purpose.
– **Use proper grammar and punctuation** – Write in complete sentences with a professional tone.
– **Respect boundaries** – Keep the conversation topic professional. Don’t overshare personal details.
– **Respond in a timely manner** – Check your LinkedIn messages regularly and reply to connections within 24 hours whenever possible.
– **Adjust based on recipient** – Consider their seniority, industry, culture and adapt your messages appropriately.
– **Say thank you** – Express gratitude when someone takes the time to respond and help you.
Following basic etiquette helps ensure you come across as professional on LinkedIn messaging and build positive relationships.
LinkedIn Messaging FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about LinkedIn’s instant messaging capability:
**Can I message people I’m not connected to?**
No, you can only instant message people who are 1st-degree connections in your LinkedIn network. Messaging 2nd and 3rd-degree connections will prompt them to connect first.
**Is there a size limit for attachments?**
Yes, you can send files up to 25MB in size through LinkedIn messaging. Accepted file types include JPG, PNG, PDF, DOC, PPT, XLS, and ZIP.
**Can I message multiple people at once?**
At this time, you can only have one-on-one conversations over LinkedIn messaging. Group messaging is not yet supported.
**Are LinkedIn messages end-to-end encrypted?**
Yes, messages are encrypted end-to-end which provides an extra level of security and privacy. Neither LinkedIn nor third-parties can access your conversations.
**Can I message people using a free LinkedIn account?**
Yes, messaging is available for all LinkedIn members, including those using the basic free account. You do not need a premium subscription.
**Can I message someone that has messaged settings off?**
No, if a connection has their messaging settings restricted, you will be unable to send them an initial message. They have to enable messaging first.
Conclusion
LinkedIn’s messaging feature provides a quick and convenient way for professionals to have meaningful conversations within their network. It facilitates real-time communication for relationship building, discussing opportunities, and exchanging knowledge.
With helpful etiquette tips, LinkedIn messaging allows you to deepen connections and unlock the full power of your professional network. It complements other communication channels like email and InMail for a comprehensive experience.
As LinkedIn continues enhancing messaging with more capabilities, it will become an increasingly vital productivity tool for any professional. Understanding how to use it properly will be key to getting the most out of LinkedIn.