Getting a lot of messages on LinkedIn can be perplexing. On one hand, it’s great that people want to connect with you professionally. On the other hand, sifting through so many messages takes time and effort.
There are a few key reasons why LinkedIn users tend to get inundated with messages:
You Have a Large Network
The more LinkedIn connections you have, the more people can message you. If you accept connection requests freely, you likely have a sizable network. While having lots of connections looks impressive, it also means more incoming messages.
Your Profile Stands Out
If your profile is robust, optimized for keywords, and shows off your expertise, you’ll attract more attention. A well-rounded profile indicates you’re engaged on LinkedIn, which makes people want to connect.
You Have a Desirable Job Title
Certain job titles and industries tend to get more LinkedIn messages. Recruiters often target people with “hot” job titles that are in-demand. Titles like software engineer, marketing manager, and sales director tend to draw lots of messages.
You’re Active on LinkedIn
When you actively post updates, comment on posts, join groups, and engage with other members, you get on people’s radars. They’ll notice your activity and may reach out via message. Being active keeps you top of mind.
Types of LinkedIn Messages You May Receive
Not all LinkedIn messages are created equal. Some are more valuable and substantive than others. Here are some common types of messages sent through LinkedIn:
Connection Requests
The most basic LinkedIn message is a connection request asking to add someone to your network. Some requests come with a customized note, while others are generic. It’s up to you whether to accept or ignore the request.
InMail Messages
InMail is LinkedIn’s internal messaging system that lets you contact anyone, even if you’re not connected. Recruiters and sales professionals often use InMail to reach out. You can send a limited number of InMails per month with a free account.
Open Linking Messages
Open linking allows anyone to message you on LinkedIn, even without a connection. This feature is turned off by default, but if enabled, you may get random messages. These are easily ignored if they lack substance.
Group Messages
Fellow members of the same LinkedIn Groups can send you messages. You generally have to approve them before seeing the contents. Group messages revolve around the group’s focus.
Automated Messages
Some messages you receive may not come directly from a person. LinkedIn’s automated bots occasionally send notifications about new connections, group updates, and more.
Message Type | Sender | Purpose |
Connection Request | Any LinkedIn user | Request to add someone to your network |
InMail | Any LinkedIn user (with credits) | One-to-one professional messaging |
Open Linking | Any LinkedIn user | Messaging without a connection |
Group Messages | Fellow group members | Discussions related to the group |
Automated Messages | LinkedIn’s bots | Notifications about LinkedIn activity |
Why Do People Send So Many LinkedIn Messages?
Now that we’ve explored the types of LinkedIn messages, let’s discuss motivations for messaging:
Growing Their Network
Many LinkedIn users actively try to grow their network by sending connection requests. A wider network provides more access and exposure. But this clogs inboxes with connection invites.
Seeking Sales Prospects
Salespeople view LinkedIn as a goldmine for leads. They’ll message anyone who fits their customer profile, hoping to generate new business. But blind solicitation is usually ineffective.
Recruiting Candidates
LinkedIn is the top hunting ground for recruiters trying to fill job openings. They use messages to source qualified candidates, pitch openings, and lure applicants.
Promoting Their Company
People who work in marketing, PR, and communications send messages to spread awareness and drive interest in their company. But unsolicited pitches are spammy.
Providing Expertise
Some members seek to establish themselves as thought leaders by sharing advice, insights, and expertise via message. This demonstrates knowledge, but the quality varies.
Making Personal Connections
Many LinkedIn users try to spark personal conversations and relationships through messaging. This may be harmless interaction or an unwanted advance.
Best Practices for Managing LinkedIn Messages
To keep your overflowing LinkedIn inbox under control, use these management techniques:
Check Messages Less Frequently
Reviewing messages constantly can feel overwhelming. Limit checking messages to once or twice per day or when you have time to respond. Applying constraints prevents message fatigue.
Quickly Reject Irrelevant Messages
Don’t hesitate to immediately delete any irrelevant messages that clearly missed the mark. This quickly reduces message clutter.
Turn Off Open Linking
Disable open messaging in your account settings to avoid random communications from people you don’t know. This limits unqualified outreach.
Hide Group Notifications
Group messages can multiply quickly. Mute group notifications, then check in occasionally when you want to engage in discussions.
Use Filters
Set up filters so inbound messages from certain people or companies automatically skip your inbox and get labeled for later review. This creates space.
Limit Connection Acceptances
Only accept connection requests when you already know the person or their profile brings value to your network. Curate your list selectively.
Customize Your Public Profile Settings
You can control what members see about your job, education, connections and more. Limit details to reduce unqualified messages.
Conclusion
A flooded LinkedIn inbox can be disruptive. But with some adjustments to your messaging settings and habits, you can take control. Focus on the most substantive messages that advance your career goals, while filtering out promotional noise. Use LinkedIn’s tools to manage conversations selectively rather than reactively. With a refined messaging strategy, you can extract value from LinkedIn connections while minimizing meaningless messages.