LinkedIn is a popular professional networking platform that allows users to connect with other professionals, search for jobs, join industry groups, and more. One useful LinkedIn feature is the ability to send private messages to connect with other members. LinkedIn messaging works similarly to email, allowing you to communicate one-on-one or with a group.
Sending private messages via the LinkedIn mobile app is easy once you know where to find the messaging features. Whether you want to message a connection about a job opportunity or touch base with a former colleague, LinkedIn’s messaging tools make it simple to reach out from your smartphone or tablet.
Prerequisites for Sending Messages
Before sending private messages on LinkedIn’s mobile app, you need:
- The LinkedIn mobile app installed on your iOS or Android device
- A LinkedIn account
- Existing connections to message. You can only message other members if they’re connected to you on LinkedIn.
If you want to message people you’re not connected to, you’ll need to send them a connection request first before messaging.
How to Message Connections
Messaging connections on the LinkedIn mobile app only takes a few simple steps:
- Launch the LinkedIn app and log into your account.
- Tap the My Network icon at the bottom.
- Go to the Connections tab to view your connections.
- Tap the profile picture of the connection you want to message.
- From their profile screen, tap the Message button.
- Type your message in the text field and hit send.
Your message will now be sent directly to that connection. You’ll see their reply in your LinkedIn messages.
Starting a New Conversation
When you message someone for the first time, it will start a new conversation thread with that LinkedIn member.
You can find all your ongoing conversations by tapping the Messaging icon at the bottom of the app. This is where sent and received messages live.
Replying in a Conversation
To continue an existing conversation:
- Open the LinkedIn app and tap the speech bubble Messaging icon.
- Select the conversation you want to reply to.
- Type your reply in the text field at the bottom.
- Tap Send when ready to reply.
This will keep the conversation going with the same recipient.
How to Start a Group Conversation
In addition to one-on-one messaging, you can use LinkedIn to message multiple connections at once:
- Tap the Compose button in the LinkedIn messaging screen.
- Start typing connections’ names and select each person you want to include.
- Tap Done once you’ve added everyone.
- Type your message and hit Send.
This lets you send a single message to up to 50 people at once. Great for coordinating with teams or projects!
Who Can See the Group Conversation
When messaging multiple people, keep in mind that everyone included can see the full conversation. Group conversations don’t support private side conversations.
Naming the Conversation
LinkedIn prompts you to name the group conversation as you create it. This helps keep track of different group message threads in your messaging inbox.
How to Message Non-Connections
Want to message someone you’re not connected to on LinkedIn? You have a couple options:
Send a Connection Request First
If you want to establish a connection before messaging, you can send a connection request:
- Find the member’s profile you want to connect with.
- Tap Connect to send them a request.
- Once accepted, you can message them from their profile.
The downside is the member has to accept your request before you can message.
Pay for LinkedIn Premium
LinkedIn Premium accounts ($29.99-$59.99 per month) let you send InMail messages to anyone on LinkedIn, even if you’re not connected.
If reaching out to executives or influencers, InMail ensures your message won’t get lost among connection requests. But keep in mind these messages incur a credit charge per InMail.
LinkedIn Messaging Tips
To make the most of LinkedIn messaging:
- Personalize your messages using the recipient’s name and referencing common connections or interests.
- Get right to the point. Don’t make the recipient read long blocks of text.
- Proofread before sending. Check for typos or unclear language.
- Follow up if you don’t receive a response within a week.
- Respect the recipient’s time. Don’t over message without good reason.
Troubleshooting LinkedIn Messaging Issues
If you’re having trouble with LinkedIn messaging, try these tips:
App Won’t Load Conversations
Close and reopen the app or force quit and relaunch to refresh the messaging screen. This usually fixes connection issues that prevent message loading.
Can’t Find a Conversation
Tap the search bar at the top of the LinkedIn messaging screen and search for the recipient’s name. This will surface the full conversation history.
Accidentally Deleted a Message
Unfortunately there’s no way to retrieve deleted LinkedIn messages. The sender will need to re-send the message contents.
Not Receiving Messages
Ensure notifications are enabled for LinkedIn in your device settings. Also check your LinkedIn notifications settings and make sure messages are enabled.
Conclusion
LinkedIn messaging provides an easy way to privately communicate with your professional connections right from your phone. Whether reaching out to an old coworker, following up on a job prospect, or coordinating with colleagues, LinkedIn messaging eliminates the need for long email chains. Follow the steps outlined to start conversations, reply to messages, engage groups, and troubleshoot issues. With some basic guidance, you’ll be messaging like a pro on the LinkedIn mobile app.