Spencer Lanoue
Starting a conversation on LinkedIn can feel like stepping into a crowded room full of professionals, each with their own agenda. But don't worry. Reaching out on LinkedIn is easier than it seems. Think of it as a digital handshake. Throughout this guide, we'll discuss practical steps to craft LinkedIn messages that not only get read but also make connections stronger.
Understanding the Purpose of Your Message
Before typing your message, it's crucial to understand why you're reaching out. Is it to network, seek advice, or inquire about job opportunities? Identifying the purpose will shape your message's tone and content. Imagine you're reaching out to someone for career advice. Your message should be respectful, concise, and highlight what you hope to learn. Here's a quick example:
Hi [Name],
I hope you're doing well. I admire your career path and would appreciate any advice you might have for someone looking to transition into [Industry/Role]. Your insights would be invaluable as I navigate this change.
Thank you for your time,
[Your Name]
Notice how the message is straightforward and respectful? Understanding your message's purpose helps you stay focused and ensures the recipient knows exactly why you're reaching out.
Crafting an Engaging Subject Line
Your subject line is the first impression your message makes. It's like the title of a book. People decide whether to open it based on those few words. Keep it concise and relevant. For instance, if you're reaching out to someone for a job referral, avoid generic subject lines like "Job Inquiry." Instead, try something more specific like "Interested in [Company Name]'s [Job Title] Role." This immediately tells the recipient the context of your message.
Think of your subject line as a friendly nudge, encouraging the person to click and read further. Here's an example:
Subject: Exploring Opportunities at [Company Name]
By personalizing the subject line, you're more likely to catch the recipient's attention and increase the chances of your message being read.
The Art of Personalization
No one likes receiving a message that feels like it was sent to a hundred other people. Personalizing your message can make all the difference. Start by addressing the person by name and mentioning something specific about their profile or recent achievements. This shows you've done your homework and aren't just sending a generic message.
For instance, if you're reaching out to someone you met at a conference, you could start with:
Hi [Name],
It was great meeting you at the [Conference Name]. I enjoyed our conversation about [Topic]. I’d love to keep in touch and explore potential collaboration opportunities.
Best,
[Your Name]
By referencing a specific event or topic, you're reminding them of your previous interaction and making your message feel more personal.
Getting to the Point Quickly
In the world of LinkedIn messaging, brevity is your best friend. Professionals are busy, and long-winded messages are more likely to be ignored. Aim to get to the point quickly while still providing enough context. A good rule of thumb is to keep your message to around 100-150 words.
For example, if you're asking for a meeting or chat, you could say:
Hi [Name],
I hope you're doing well. I’m interested in learning more about your experience at [Company Name] and would appreciate any insights you can share. Could we schedule a quick call in the coming weeks?
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Notice how this message is polite, concise, and directly states what you're asking for. This approach respects the recipient's time and makes it easier for them to respond.
Including a Call to Action
A call to action (CTA) is a gentle prompt that encourages the recipient to do something, like scheduling a meeting or reading a document. Make sure your CTA is clear and easy to follow. The easier you make it for the recipient to respond, the more likely they are to do so.
Here's a simple example:
If you're available, I’d love to set up a 15-minute chat to discuss [Topic]. Please let me know your availability, or feel free to suggest a time that works for you.
Best,
[Your Name]
By suggesting a specific timeframe and leaving room for the recipient to propose alternatives, your message becomes actionable and easier to respond to.
Sounding Professional Yet Human
Your LinkedIn message should strike a balance between professionalism and a natural, conversational tone. Avoid overly formal language that might make your message sound stiff. Instead, write as if you're having a face-to-face conversation.
For instance:
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile while researching [Industry/Topic] and was really impressed by your experience. I’d love to hear your thoughts on [Specific Subject].
Thanks for considering my request,
[Your Name]
This message maintains a professional tone but feels friendly and approachable. Remember, people are more likely to respond positively to messages that feel genuine.
Following Up Without Being Pushy
Sometimes, you won't get a response right away, and that's okay. Following up can be done gracefully without coming off as pushy. Wait about a week before sending a follow-up message, and keep it light.
Here's a follow-up example:
Hi [Name],
I wanted to follow up on my previous message. I understand you're busy, but I’d still love the chance to chat about [Topic]. Let me know if you have any availability in the coming weeks.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
This message is polite and reminds the recipient of your previous message without pressuring them to respond immediately.
Spell: Making LinkedIn Messaging Easier
At times, crafting the perfect LinkedIn message can be time-consuming, especially if you're reaching out to multiple people. That's where Spell comes in. With Spell, you can draft, edit, and personalize your messages quickly, leveraging AI to save time and enhance your communication. Think of it as having a smart assistant helping you create high-quality messages that stand out.
Proofreading and Editing Your Message
Before hitting send, take a moment to proofread your message. Typos and grammatical errors can make your message look unprofessional. Reading your message out loud is a great way to catch mistakes and ensure it flows well. If you're unsure about your writing, tools like Spell can help refine your message, ensuring it’s polished and ready to send.
Consider this checklist before sending:
- Check for spelling and grammar errors.
- Ensure your message is clear and concise.
- Verify that all names and titles are correct.
- Ensure your call to action is clear.
By taking the time to proofread, you're showing the recipient that you value their time and attention.
Final Thoughts
Crafting LinkedIn messages that are effective and professional isn't as daunting as it may seem. By being clear, personalizing your message, and adding a touch of professionalism, you're more likely to make meaningful connections. To make this process even smoother, consider using Spell to write and edit your messages efficiently. It's like having a writing assistant that ensures your communication stands out, helping you connect with others effortlessly.
