Product Overview: LinkedIn InMail
What is InMail?
LinkedIn InMail is a premium messaging feature on the LinkedIn platform that allows users to send direct, private messages to other LinkedIn members, even if they are not connected. This feature bypasses the standard limitation of only being able to message 1st-degree connections, making it a powerful tool for outreach, networking, and recruiting.
Key Features and Functionality
Sending Messages to Non-Connections
InMail enables users to contact any LinkedIn member, regardless of their connection status. This is particularly valuable for sales reps, recruiters, and anyone looking to expand their professional network or initiate business conversations with potential leads.
Monthly InMail Credits
Users with LinkedIn Premium, Sales Navigator, or Recruiter subscriptions receive a set number of InMail credits each month. These credits can be used to send InMail messages, and the number of credits varies depending on the subscription plan. For example, Premium Business users get 15 credits, while Sales Navigator users get 50 credits per month.
Message Delivery and Notifications
InMail messages are delivered directly to the recipient’s LinkedIn inbox and also trigger an email notification, ensuring the message gets the recipient’s attention.
Character Limit and Structure
InMail messages have a higher character limit (up to 1,900 characters) compared to standard LinkedIn messages or connection requests. They also include a subject line, similar to an email, which helps in capturing the recipient’s attention.
Tracking and Metrics
InMail provides detailed metrics and reports on the messages sent, allowing users to track the performance of their outreach efforts. This includes open rates, response rates, and other engagement metrics to help improve the overall outreach strategy.
Credit Refund Mechanism
If a recipient responds to an InMail message, the sender’s InMail credit is refunded, allowing for more efficient use of the available credits. This mechanism encourages engagement and helps in maximizing the utility of the InMail feature.
Personalization and Effectiveness
To use InMail effectively, it is crucial to personalize messages. This includes addressing the recipient by name, referencing their work and company, and clearly explaining the value proposition. Personalized messages, especially those including video content, can significantly enhance the likelihood of a positive response.
Benefits
- Expanded Reach: InMail allows users to connect with professionals who are not currently in their network, making it ideal for networking, sales prospecting, and recruiting.
- Relationship Building: It facilitates the initiation of conversations with potential clients, industry experts, or valuable contacts, helping to build rapport and establish professional relationships.
- Business Promotion: Users can share valuable content or showcase their skills to a targeted audience, promoting their business or expertise effectively.
- High Open Rates: InMail messages have higher open rates compared to traditional emails, making them a more effective tool for outreach.
In summary, LinkedIn InMail is a robust and versatile tool that enhances professional networking, sales prospecting, and recruiting by allowing direct communication with any LinkedIn member, regardless of connection status. Its features, including monthly credits, detailed metrics, and a credit refund mechanism, make it a valuable asset for users looking to expand their professional reach.