There are a few common reasons why you may not be able to send a message to someone on LinkedIn:
You don’t have enough connections
In order to send an initial message to someone you’re not connected to on LinkedIn, you need to meet certain thresholds for your own network size and activity. Specifically, you need to have at least 30 connections and have been active on LinkedIn within the last 90 days. If you don’t meet these requirements, LinkedIn will not allow you to send an initial message to someone you’re not already connected with.
Your message is marked as spam
LinkedIn has automated spam filters that block messages containing certain words or patterns associated with spam or harassment. If your message contains questionable links, repeated characters, suspicious contact requests, or other red flags, LinkedIn may automatically flag and block it from being sent. To avoid this, carefully review your message before sending to make sure it doesn’t contain any unusual text or requests.
Your account is restricted
If you have sent repetitive unsolicited messages in the past, LinkedIn may restrict your account’s messaging capabilities for a period of time. You may see an error message that you “can’t send messages right now” or that your “messaging privileges have been limited.” This restriction is meant to protect other LinkedIn members from unwanted communication. The best way to restore your full messaging abilities is to use LinkedIn responsibly going forward.
Their inbox is full
LinkedIn caps the number of unread messages a member can have at any time, typically around 100 unread messages. If the person you’re trying to reach has hit that limit, LinkedIn will block additional incoming messages until they clear out some space. The recipient needs to open and respond to some messages in their inbox before you’ll be able to successfully send them a new message.
They don’t want to receive messages
Some LinkedIn members configure their settings to only allow messages from people in their network. If you try to message someone you’re not connected to who has disabled messages in this way, LinkedIn will not allow you to contact them. The only option is to try connecting with that member first before attempting to send a message.
It’s marked as suspicious activity
If you try sending a high volume of messages in a short period of time, especially repetitive messages or those targeted at people you’re not connected to, LinkedIn may temporarily restrict your account. This is because such activity may indicate automated bots or spam behavior. Slow down your outbound messages and focus on making meaningful connections first.
Requirements for Sending Messages on LinkedIn
LinkedIn allows all members to receive messages, but puts certain restrictions around who can send messages in order to limit spam and harassment. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind:
Connected members
Any LinkedIn member can send a message to someone they are already connected with. There are no restrictions on one-to-one messaging between connections.
Unconnected members
To message someone you are not yet connected with, you must meet these criteria:
- Have at least 30 connections
- Have been active on LinkedIn within the last 90 days
Activity is defined as things like engaging with content, sending invites, joining groups, posting updates, etc.
Restricted accounts
If your account has been restricted due to past spam or harassing messages, your messaging abilities may be limited or disabled for a period of time. Restrictions can range from being unable to message unconnected members to being completely unable to send any messages at all.
Member settings
Some members configure their settings to only accept messages from people in their network. You will be unable to message these members until you connect with them first.
Messaging From | Messaging To | Requirements |
---|---|---|
Connected member | Connected member | No restrictions |
Unconnected member | Unconnected member | * Minimum 30 connections * Active in last 90 days |
Restricted member | Any member | Messaging disabled or limited based on account restrictions |
Any member | Member who disabled unconnected messages | Must connect with member first |
How to Fix “Can’t Send Message” Errors on LinkedIn
If you are getting errors when trying to send LinkedIn messages, here are some troubleshooting steps:
Check your connections and activity
Make sure you have at least 30 connections and have been active on LinkedIn within the last 90 days. Doing things like commenting, liking, posting, and joining groups count as activity. If not, focus on building genuine connections and engagement first.
Review for spam triggers
Carefully re-read your message and remove any unnecessary repeated characters, strange formatting, suspicious contact info requests, or questionable links. These could be triggering LinkedIn’s spam filters.
Wait out any restrictions
If your account was restricted due to past violations of LinkedIn’s policies, you may need to wait a period of time before your messaging abilities are restored. Be patient and use the time to build authentic relationships.
Connect with the recipient first
If the person you want to message has their settings configured to only allow messages from connections, send them a connection request first. Once accepted, you should be able to message them.
Ask recipient to clear inbox
If the recipient has a full inbox, they will need to archive or respond to existing conversations before you can send a new message. Politely ask them to clear room so you can message them.
Contact LinkedIn support
If you believe your account has been incorrectly restricted, reach out to LinkedIn customer service for help resolving the issue and restoring your messaging capabilities.
Best Practices for LinkedIn Messaging
To avoid issues when messaging on LinkedIn, keep these best practices in mind:
Personalize invitations and messages
Generic messages come across as spam. Always customize your messages with specific details about why you want to connect or what you hope to discuss.
Provide value
Whether reaching out to connections or unconnected members, give them a reason to want to hear from you. Offer advice, share an interesting article, or provide useful insights.
Be transparent
Make your intentions clear from the start. State why you are messaging and what the conversation is about upfront.
Keep it professional
LinkedIn is a professional networking platform. Be thoughtful with your language and avoid overly casual or sloppy messages.
Follow up judiciously
One follow up message is fine if someone doesn’t respond initially, but don’t bombard them with repetitive outreach. Take the hint if they keep ignoring you.
Don’t overdo it
Mass messaging many people in a short period will likely trigger spam protections. Space out your messages and focus on quality over quantity.
Conclusion
LinkedIn limits messaging primarily to guard against spam and create a professional environment. Take time to build genuine connections, message thoughtfully, provide value, and you should avoid any issues sending messages. Focus on developing your network and engaging authentically vs. mass outreach. If you do get blocked, be patient as restrictions are usually temporary. With the right approach, LinkedIn can be a great platform for productive professional conversations.