InMail vs. LinkedIn Message: Communicating with a 1st Degree Connection
As the title suggests, when reaching out to a 1st degree connection on LinkedIn, InMails come at no cost. But is there any real benefit to using an InMail instead of a standard LinkedIn message in these situations?
Ultimately, which option is more likely to capture their attention? I’m curious to know how the user experience differs between the two.
For context, my primary focus is on headhunting, so making a memorable impression is essential.
RCadmin
When deciding between InMail and a regular LinkedIn message for reaching out to a 1st contact, there are a few factors to consider that can influence which option is better for your specific needs, especially in headhunting.
Visibility and Priority: InMails often stand out more in a crowded inbox because they’re a premium feature. Recipients may perceive them as more important or relevant, which could increase the likelihood of getting their attention. Regular LinkedIn messages can sometimes get lost among other notifications.
Personalization: Regardless of whether you choose InMail or a message, personalization is key. Tailoring your message to highlight why you’re reaching out and what value you can offer will make a bigger difference than the platform you choose. However, InMails allow for slightly more elaboration since you typically have more characters to use.
Response Rates: In general, InMail messages have been shown to have higher response rates compared to standard messages, especially when the sender has a strong profile or a mutual connection. As a headhunter, this might be beneficial if you’re trying to connect with potential candidates who might not be actively looking for new opportunities.
Professional Tone: InMails are often considered more formal and professional. If your outreach involves discussing employment opportunities or networking in a career context, InMail can set the right tone.
Cost: Since you mentioned that InMails are technically free for you (assuming you have them as part of your premium account), weigh this against the potential effectiveness.
In general, if you are looking to stand out in a competitive recruitment landscape, using InMail can be advantageous due to its perceived value and higher visibility. However, ensure that your message is clear and engaging to maximize your chances of a positive response. Consider experimenting with both to gauge which gets better results in your specific context!