A good LinkedIn inmail message catches the recipient’s attention, establishes your credibility, and convinces them to take action. The key is balancing professionalism with personality to build rapport quickly. An effective inmail typically contains:
- A clear, specific subject line
- A warm greeting with the recipient’s name
- An introduction explaining who you are and why you’re reaching out
- 1-2 sentences on why you admire/respect them or their work
- A brief context on how you found them or a connection you share
- A customized call-to-action based on their interests and goals
- A friendly sign-off with your full name and contact info
Here is an example of a good LinkedIn inmail message:
Subject: Exploring healthcare social media opportunities
Hi Jane,
My name is John Smith, and I’m the Social Media Manager at MedCo Healthcare. I came across your profile and was very impressed with your work building Johnson Medical’s social media presence.
In particular, I loved how you grew their Facebook page from 2,000 to over 50,000 followers in just two years. That’s amazing! I’m looking to do something similar for MedCo’s emerging social channels.
I noticed you have extensive experience in healthcare marketing. I would love to take you out for coffee and get your insights on social media best practices for the healthcare industry. Let me know if you would be open to connecting in person sometime next week.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Best,
John Smith
Social Media Manager, MedCo Healthcare
123-456-7890
Why This Works
Let’s break down the key elements that make this an effective LinkedIn inmail:
The Subject Line
“Exploring healthcare social media opportunities” is clear, straightforward, and relevant to the recipient’s interests. A strong subject line grabs attention and provides context.
The Introduction
The first paragraph introduces who the sender is and why they are reaching out. Establishing common ground helps build rapport.
The Compliment
Highlighting the recipient’s impressive social media results flatters them and shows you did your research. Sincerity and specifics make compliments more meaningful.
The Connection
Noting the recipient’s healthcare experience relates their background to your social media goals. This shared interest helps create a natural segue.
The Call-to-Action
Requesting to meet for coffee makes it easy for the recipient to say yes. A low-pressure ask is more likely to get a positive response.
The Sign-Off
Closing with a first and last name and contact information is professional and personable. This allows the recipient to easily follow up.
Tips for an Effective Inmail
Here are some additional tips for crafting a compelling LinkedIn inmail message:
Keep it brief
Get to the point quickly. Recipients are busy and avoid long-winded notes. Limit your message to 3-5 concise paragraphs.
Personalize the greeting
Use their first name to make it feel more customized and establish rapport right away.
Highlight shared connections
If you have connections in common, mention them to strengthen your introduction. This gives credibility upfront.
Focus on their needs
Frame your ask around their interests and goals vs. leading with your own agenda. Show how connecting would be mutually beneficial.
Suggest a quick call or meeting
Propose a 15-30 minute chat rather than a big time commitment. This is an easy first step to take the conversation offline.
Follow up if needed
If you don’t hear back within a week, send a polite follow-up. Remind them who you are and reiterate your request.
Proofread carefully
Double check for typos, grammar issues, and inaccuracies so the message looks polished and professional.
Avoid sales pitches
Don’t make it purely promotional. Focus on building a relationship, not just selling them something.
Customizing Your Inmail
While this example provides a helpful template, the most effective inmails are tailored to each recipient. Consider customizing these key elements:
The introduction
Highlight experiences, organizations, interests, or connections you have in common.
The compliment
Praise their specific skills, achievements, or expertise that stood out to you.
The call-to-action
Suggest meeting to discuss topics or opportunities relevant to their goals.
The sign-off
Close with a thoughtful remark wishing them well or expressing your enthusiasm to connect.
Following Up After Connecting
Once you’ve made an initial connection, here are some best practices for follow up:
- Send a thank you note recapping your conversation and any next steps.
- Connect on other social media platforms if appropriate to continue the relationship.
- Share relevant articles or other helpful resources based on their needs and interests.
- Look for opportunities to provide value like making introductions or endorsing their skills.
- Suggest meeting again to explore working together or help elevate their career.
- Stay in touch by commenting on their posts, congratulating wins, and sending periodic check-ins.
The goal is to cultivate an authentic, mutually beneficial relationship. With the right follow up, an initial inmail connection can blossom into an impactful professional friendship.
Common LinkedIn Inmail Mistakes to Avoid
These are some key pitfalls that can make your inmail ineffective:
- Using a generic subject line like “Let’s Connect!”
- Making it all about you and your needs vs. showing interest in them.
- Being too long-winded instead of getting to the point.
- Asking for too much too soon like requesting they share leads.
- Sending an impersonal template message with no customization.
- Not having a clear call-to-action for them to take next.
- Selling too aggressively without building rapport.
- Not following up if you don’t get an initial response.
Avoiding these missteps and focusing on value, relevance and relationship building is key to inmail success.
The Takeaway
A thoughtful, personalized inmail can spark new professional opportunities. Focus on quickly establishing common ground, highlighting shared goals, and making a specific ask. With the right balance of preparation, customization, and follow through, you can turn LinkedIn connections into impactful relationships.