InMail vs. LinkedIn Message to a 1st Degree Connection
As the title suggests, when reaching out to a first-degree connection on LinkedIn, InMails come at no cost. But is there any benefit to using an InMail instead of a regular LinkedIn message for a first contact?
The key question is which method is more effective at capturing their attention. I’m curious about the differences in their user experience as well.
For context, I primarily work in headhunting and need to ensure my outreach stands out.
RCadmin
When deciding between using LinkedIn InMail and a standard LinkedIn message to reach out to a 1st-degree contact, there are some key points to consider:
Visibility: InMails are designed to stand out more in a person’s LinkedIn inbox, as they are typically more formal and the sender is often someone who’s not directly connected. On the other hand, messages to 1st-degree connections appear in the regular message stream and might be overlooked if the recipient receives a lot of messages.
Professional Tone: InMails allow you to craft a more formal introduction, which can be useful in a headhunting context where you want to present yourself as a professional and serious candidate. This can make the message feel more important and worthy of immediate attention.
Content Length: InMails usually give you more room to explain your proposition in detail without coming off as too overwhelming. You can share relevant information about the opportunity, why you’re reaching out, and what benefits the contact could see in considering the offer.
Subject Line: InMails have a subject line that can be tailored to catch the recipient’s interest, striking directly at the heart of what you’re proposing or the opportunity. This can make a big difference in capturing attention right away.
Perceived Value: Some users might perceive InMails as having a higher value or urgency since they are often used for professional outreach. This may foster a sense of importance around your message.
However, since you are specifically reaching out to 1st-degree connections, a direct message can also work effectively. Here, the familiarity of the connection can play in your favor.
In summary, if you aim to stand out more, especially when headhunting, using InMail might be beneficial given its more formal nature and attention-grabbing capabilities. However, don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted direct message—especially if you already have established rapport with the contact. Ultimately, the effectiveness will depend on how you tailor your message to resonate with the recipient.