LinkedIn InMail Best Practices: How to Write Messages That Get Replies

LinkedIn InMail is one of the most powerful tools for connecting with professionals, whether you’re networking, recruiting, or pitching a product.

But let’s be honest—writing an InMail that actually gets a reply can feel like trying to hit a bullseye blindfolded.

You’ve got one shot to make an impression, and if you miss, your message might end up in the dreaded “ignore” pile.

So, how do you write LinkedIn InMail messages that stand out and get replies?

Let’s break it down step by step, with plenty of tips and tricks to help you master the art of InMail.

Why LinkedIn InMail Matters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why LinkedIn InMail is such a big deal. Unlike regular emails or cold messages, InMail has a higher chance of being seen because it lands directly in someone’s LinkedIn inbox.

Plus, LinkedIn users are already in a professional mindset when they’re on the platform, which means they’re more likely to engage with your message—if it’s done right.

But here’s the catch: people are busy. They’re bombarded with messages every day, so your InMail needs to be clear, concise, and compelling. Otherwise, it’s just noise.

1. Start with a Strong Subject Line

Your subject line is the first thing someone sees, and it’s what determines whether they’ll even open your message. Think of it as the headline of an article—if it’s boring or vague, no one’s going to click.

Here are some tips for crafting a killer subject line:

• Keep it short and sweet: Aim for 5-7 words max.
• Be specific: Instead of “Opportunity for You,” try “Quick Question About Your Recent Project.”
• Spark curiosity: Use phrases like “Thought You’d Find This Interesting” or “Idea for [Their Industry].”
• Personalize it: Mention their name, company, or a recent achievement. For example, “Congrats on the New Role, [Name]!”

Avoid generic subject lines like “Hello” or “Let’s Connect.” They’re a one-way ticket to the trash folder.

2. Personalize Your Message

Nobody likes feeling like they’re just another name on a list. If your message sounds like it was copied and pasted to 100 people, it’s not going to get a reply.

Take a few minutes to research the person you’re messaging. Look at their profile, check out their recent posts, and find something you can reference in your message.

For example:

• “I noticed you recently spoke at [Event]. I was really impressed by your insights on [Topic].”
• “I saw that you’ve been with [Company] for [X] years. How has your experience been so far?”

This shows that you’ve put in the effort to understand who they are and what they care about.

3. Get to the Point Quickly

Once someone opens your message, you’ve got about 10 seconds to grab their attention. That means no long-winded introductions or beating around the bush.

Start with a quick greeting, mention why you’re reaching out, and get straight to the point. Here’s a simple structure you can follow:

1. Greeting: “Hi [Name],”
2. Introduction: “I came across your profile and noticed [specific detail].”
3. Purpose: “I’m reaching out because [reason].”
4. Call to Action: “Would you be open to [specific request]?”

For example:
“Hi Sarah,
I came across your profile and noticed your work on sustainability initiatives at [Company]. I’m reaching out because I’m working on a similar project and would love to hear your thoughts. Would you be open to a quick chat next week?”

4. Focus on Their Needs, Not Yours

One of the biggest mistakes people make with InMail is making it all about themselves. “I need this,” “I want that,” “Can you help me?”

Instead, flip the script and focus on what’s in it for them. How can you add value to their life or work? Maybe you have a resource they’d find useful, or you can offer insights into a challenge they’re facing.

For example:

• “I recently read an article on [Topic] that reminded me of your work. Thought you might find it interesting!”
• “I noticed you’re expanding your team. I’d love to share some tips that have worked for me in the past.”

When you show that you’re genuinely interested in helping them, they’re much more likely to respond.

5. Keep It Concise

Long messages are a surefire way to lose someone’s interest. Keep your InMail short and to the point—ideally, no more than 3-4 short paragraphs.

If you find yourself writing a novel, take a step back and ask yourself:

• What’s the main point I’m trying to make?
• What’s the one thing I want them to do?

Cut out any fluff and focus on the essentials.

6. Include a Clear Call to Action

Every InMail should have a clear next step. Whether it’s scheduling a call, sharing a resource, or simply replying to your message, make it easy for them to know what to do next.

Here are some examples of effective calls to action:

• “Would you be open to a 15-minute chat next week?”
• “I’d love to hear your thoughts—let me know if you’re interested!”
• “Can I send over a quick resource that might help?”

Avoid vague requests like “Let me know what you think” or “Get back to me if you’re interested.” Be specific and direct.

7. Use a Friendly, Conversational Tone

LinkedIn is a professional platform, but that doesn’t mean your messages need to sound like they were written by a robot. Write like you’re talking to a real person—because you are.

Use a casual, conversational tone, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. For example:

• “I know you’re probably swamped, so I’ll keep this quick.”
• “No pressure at all—just thought I’d reach out!”

This makes your message feel more human and less like a sales pitch.

8. Follow Up (But Don’t Be Pushy)

Sometimes, people don’t reply because they’re busy, not because they’re not interested. A polite follow-up can be a great way to nudge them without being annoying.

Wait about a week before sending a follow-up, and keep it short and friendly. For example:
“Hi [Name],
Just wanted to follow up on my previous message. No worries if you’re too busy—I totally get it! Let me know if you’d like to connect.”

If you still don’t hear back after one or two follow-ups, it’s time to move on.

9. Test and Refine Your Approach

Not every InMail is going to be a home run, and that’s okay. The key is to learn from what works and what doesn’t.

Pay attention to which messages get the most replies and try to figure out why. Was it the subject line? The tone? The call to action? Use that information to refine your approach over time.

10. Avoid Common Mistakes

Finally, let’s talk about some of the biggest mistakes people make with LinkedIn InMail—and how to avoid them:

• Being too salesy: No one likes feeling like they’re being sold to. Focus on building a connection first.
• Overloading with information: Keep your message short and sweet.
• Ignoring grammar and spelling: Typos make you look careless. Always proofread before hitting send.
• Sending generic messages: Personalization is key. Take the time to make your message relevant to the recipient.

Suming It Up

Mastering LinkedIn InMail is all about striking the right balance between professionalism and personality.

If you were to follow the aforementioned best practices—starting with a strong subject line, personalizing your message, and focusing on the recipient’s needs—you’ll be well on your way to writing InMails that get replies.

Remember, it’s not about sending as many messages as possible; it’s about sending the right messages to the right people. Take your time, put in the effort, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a little practice, you’ll be an InMail pro in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Start crafting those messages and watch your reply rate soar!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes a LinkedIn InMail Message Stand Out?

Why This Matters

With so many messages flooding LinkedIn inboxes every day, standing out is crucial. If your InMail doesn’t catch someone’s attention right away, it’s likely to get ignored. So, what makes a message truly stand out?

Key Elements of a Standout InMail

1. A Strong Subject Line
   Your subject line is the first thing someone sees, so it needs to grab their attention. Think of it like the cover of a book—if it doesn’t intrigue them, they’re not going to open it. Keep it short, specific, and relevant to the recipient. For example:
   • “Quick Question About Your Recent Post”
   • “Thought You’d Find This Interesting”
   • “Congrats on the New Role!”
2. Personalization
   Generic messages are a surefire way to get ignored. Take the time to personalize your message by referencing something specific about the recipient. This could be a recent post they shared, a project they’re working on, or even a mutual connection. For example:
   • “I noticed you recently spoke at [Event]. Your insights on [Topic] were spot on!”
   • “I saw that you’ve been with [Company] for [X] years. How has your experience been so far?”
3. Clear and Concise Content
   No one has time to read a novel in their LinkedIn inbox. Keep your message short and to the point—ideally, no more than 3-4 short paragraphs. Focus on the main point you’re trying to make and cut out any unnecessary fluff.
4. A Strong Call to Action
   Every InMail should have a clear next step. Whether it’s scheduling a call, sharing a resource, or simply replying to your message, make it easy for the recipient to know what to do next. For example:
   • “Would you be open to a 15-minute chat next week?”
   • “I’d love to hear your thoughts—let me know if you’re interested!”
5. A Friendly, Conversational Tone
   LinkedIn is a professional platform, but that doesn’t mean your messages need to sound stiff or formal. Write like you’re talking to a real person—because you are. Use a casual, conversational tone, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.

How Do I Write a LinkedIn InMail That Gets Replies?

Why This Matters

Writing an InMail that gets replies is all about making a genuine connection and providing value. If your message feels impersonal or self-serving, it’s unlikely to get a response.

Steps to Write a Reply-Worthy InMail

1. Do Your Homework
   Before you start writing, take a few minutes to research the person you’re messaging. Look at their profile, check out their recent posts, and find something you can reference in your message. This shows that you’ve put in the effort to understand who they are and what they care about.
2. Start with a Personalized Greeting
   A simple “Hi [Name]” is fine, but if you want to go the extra mile, you can add a personal touch. For example:
   • “Hi [Name], I hope you’re having a great week!”
   • “Hi [Name], congrats on the new role!”
3. Mention Why You’re Reaching Out
   Be clear about why you’re messaging them. Are you looking to connect, share a resource, or ask for advice? Whatever it is, make sure it’s relevant to them. For example:
   • “I’m reaching out because I came across your work on [Topic] and thought you might find this resource helpful.”
   • “I’d love to hear your thoughts on [Topic]—your expertise in this area is really impressive.”
4. Focus on Their Needs
   Instead of making your message all about you, focus on what’s in it for them. How can you add value to their life or work? Maybe you have a resource they’d find useful, or you can offer insights into a challenge they’re facing.
5. End with a Clear Call to Action
   Make it easy for them to know what to do next. Whether it’s scheduling a call, sharing a resource, or simply replying to your message, be specific and direct. For example:
   • “Would you be open to a quick chat next week?”
   • “Can I send over a quick resource that might help?”
6. Proofread Before Sending
   Typos and grammatical errors can make you look careless, so always proofread your message before hitting send.

How Often Should I Follow Up on a LinkedIn InMail?

Why This Matters

Following up is important because people are busy and sometimes messages get lost in the shuffle. But there’s a fine line between being persistent and being pushy.

Best Practices for Following Up

1. Wait About a Week
   Give the recipient enough time to respond before sending a follow-up. A week is usually a good rule of thumb, but you can adjust based on the urgency of your message.
2. Keep It Short and Friendly
   Your follow-up should be brief and to the point. Acknowledge that they’re probably busy and keep the tone friendly and polite. For example:
   • “Hi [Name], just wanted to follow up on my previous message. No worries if you’re too busy—I totally get it! Let me know if you’d like to connect.”
3. Don’t Overdo It
   If you don’t hear back after one or two follow-ups, it’s time to move on. Sending too many messages can come across as pushy and may damage your chances of getting a reply in the future.
4. Consider Alternative Approaches
   If your InMail isn’t getting a response, try reaching out through a different channel, like email or a mutual connection. Sometimes a different approach can make all the difference.