LinkedIn Messaging Tips: How to Write Messages That Get Responses
Master LinkedIn messaging with proven templates, timing strategies, and best practices that generate replies instead of silence.
Most LinkedIn messages fail because they focus on what the sender wants rather than what the recipient gains. The difference between messages that get ignored and those that spark conversations comes down to relevance, timing, and genuine value.
Key Takeaways
- Personalization is mandatory: Generic messages get deleted; specific references to profile, content, or mutual connections get read
- Front-load value: Lead with what they gain, not what you want
- Keep it short: Messages under 100 words see significantly higher response rates
- Timing matters: Tuesday-Thursday, business hours in recipient's timezone perform best
LinkedIn Messaging Fundamentals
Understanding LinkedIn's messaging system helps you use it effectively.
Types of LinkedIn Messages
LinkedIn offers several messaging options:
| Message Type | Who Can Receive | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Direct messages | 1st-degree connections | All members |
| InMail | Anyone (with credits) | Premium/Sales Navigator |
| Group messages | Group members | Group participation required |
| Connection request notes | Anyone | 300 character limit |
Each type has different use cases and best practices.
Message Visibility and Read Receipts
According to LinkedIn's help documentation, LinkedIn tracks message activity including:
- When messages are read (if recipient has read receipts enabled)
- Typing indicators during conversation
- Active status showing when users are online
Understanding these features helps you gauge engagement and optimize follow-up timing.
Writing LinkedIn Messages That Get Responses
The structure and content of your message determines whether it gets read, ignored, or reported as spam.
The 3-Part Message Framework
Effective LinkedIn messages follow a simple structure:
1. Relevance Hook (Why You)
- Reference something specific about them
- Show you've done research
- Establish why you're reaching out to them specifically
2. Value Statement (What They Gain)
- Lead with the benefit to them
- Be specific about what you're offering
- Make it easy to understand quickly
3. Low-Friction CTA (Easy Next Step)
- Ask for something small
- Make responding easy
- Don't require significant commitment
Message Length Best Practices
According to LinkedIn messaging research, shorter messages significantly outperform longer ones:
| Message Length | Response Rate |
|---|---|
| Under 50 words | Highest |
| 50-100 words | High |
| 100-200 words | Moderate |
| Over 200 words | Lowest |
Most people read LinkedIn messages on mobile. Long messages require scrolling and feel like work.
LinkedIn Message Templates That Work
Use these templates as starting points, always personalizing for each recipient.
After Engaging With Their Content
This works because you've already established presence through engagement.
Hi [Name],
I've been following your posts about [topic] - your recent insight about [specific point] was spot on.
I work with [similar audience] on [related challenge] and would love to hear your thoughts on [relevant question].
Mind if I pick your brain for 5 minutes sometime?
Mutual Connection Introduction
Warm introductions convert at 3-5x cold outreach.
Hi [Name],
[Mutual connection] mentioned you're working on [project/challenge]. They thought we should connect since I help [type of company] with [relevant solution].
I'd love to learn more about what you're building. Any interest in a quick call next week?
Industry Peer Relationship
Peer relationships often lead to referrals and collaboration.
Hi [Name],
I noticed we both work in [industry/space]. Your background at [company/project] caught my attention.
I'm always looking to connect with others solving similar problems. Would be great to exchange notes sometime - what's the best way to connect?
Post-Event Follow-Up
Strike while recognition is fresh.
Hi [Name],
Great meeting you at [event] yesterday. Your comment about [specific thing they said] stuck with me.
Would love to continue that conversation. Free for coffee [specific time suggestion]?
Value-First Outreach
Lead with giving, not asking.
Hi [Name],
I saw your post about [challenge they mentioned]. We actually solved a similar problem last quarter and I wrote up what worked.
Happy to share if helpful - just say the word. No strings attached.
LinkedIn InMail Best Practices
InMail allows messaging non-connections—but requires a different approach.
InMail vs Direct Messages
| Factor | Direct Message | InMail |
|---|---|---|
| Recipient | 1st-degree connections | Anyone |
| Cost | Free | Requires credits |
| Typical response rate | 15-25% | 10-15% |
| Best for | Warm outreach | Cold outreach to specific targets |
Writing Effective InMails
InMails face higher skepticism because recipients expect sales pitches. Counter this by:
Being hyper-relevant: Show clear research on their specific situation Leading with insight: Share something valuable before asking Staying brief: Under 100 words dramatically improves response rates Having a clear purpose: Be direct about why you're reaching out
InMail Subject Lines
Unlike direct messages, InMails have subject lines that determine open rates.
Effective subject lines:
- "[Mutual connection] suggested I reach out"
- "Quick question about [specific topic from their profile]"
- "[Specific result] for [their company/role]"
Ineffective subject lines:
- "Introduction"
- "Partnership opportunity"
- "I can help your business grow"
Timing Your LinkedIn Messages
When you send matters almost as much as what you send.
Optimal Send Times
According to LinkedIn engagement data:
| Day | Best Time (Recipient's Timezone) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9-11am, 1-3pm |
| Wednesday | 9-11am, 1-3pm |
| Thursday | 9-11am, 1-3pm |
| Monday | 10-11am (after morning email catch-up) |
| Friday | 9-10am only |
Avoid weekends and late evenings—professional contexts perform best during work hours.
Follow-Up Timing
If you don't receive a response:
- Wait 5-7 days before first follow-up
- Add new value in follow-up (don't just "bump")
- Maximum 2-3 follow-ups before moving on
- Space follow-ups 7-10 days apart
Persistence shows interest, but excessive follow-up becomes harassment.
Common LinkedIn Messaging Mistakes
These errors kill response rates:
1. The Wall of Text
Long, dense messages signal that responding will require equal effort. Most recipients won't bother.
Fix: Keep messages under 100 words. Use line breaks for readability.
2. Generic Copy-Paste
"I came across your profile and thought we should connect" tells recipients you send this to everyone.
Fix: Include at least one specific detail that couldn't apply to anyone else.
3. Immediate Sales Pitch
Pitching in your first message creates instant resistance. Even if your solution is perfect, the approach fails.
Fix: First message should build relationship. Pitch later, if ever.
4. The Disguised Ask
"Not trying to sell you anything, but..." is worse than an honest pitch. It erodes trust.
Fix: Be direct about your intentions. Authenticity beats manipulation.
5. No Clear Ask
Messages that ramble without a clear purpose leave recipients unsure how to respond.
Fix: Every message should end with one clear, easy next step.
6. Ignoring Their Context
Pitching enterprise software to a solopreneur or selling marketing services to someone who just got laid off shows you haven't done basic research.
Fix: Check their profile and recent activity before messaging.
Advanced Messaging Strategies
Beyond basics, these approaches improve results:
The Voice Message
LinkedIn allows voice messages in the mobile app. They stand out because:
- Few people use them
- They're more personal
- They're harder to ignore
Use voice messages for warm connections where personality adds value.
The Sequenced Approach
Instead of one message, plan a sequence:
- Day 0: Engage with their content (comment on a post)
- Day 3: Send connection request with personalized note
- Day 5-7: After acceptance, send value-first message
- Day 14+: Follow up with specific ask
This builds recognition before asking for anything.
Leverage Engagement Before Messaging
Strategic commenting creates recognition that improves message response rates:
- Comment on 3-5 of their posts before messaging
- Add genuine value in comments (not "Great post!")
- Let them see your expertise in action
- Then message with existing rapport
People respond more favorably to names they recognize.
Messaging for Different Objectives
Optimal messaging varies by goal.
Sales Conversations
- Don't: Pitch immediately or ask for meetings in first message
- Do: Focus on understanding their challenges, provide relevant insights
- Inbound approaches outperform cold messaging
Job Search
- Don't: Ask "Are you hiring?" with no context
- Do: Reference specific roles, explain relevant qualifications, request informational conversation
Partnerships
- Don't: Propose complex collaborations immediately
- Do: Start with relationship building, identify mutual benefit, propose specific small first step
Networking
- Don't: Connect and immediately ask for referrals
- Do: Build genuine relationship over time, offer value first, earn referrals through trust
How ConnectSafely.ai Supports LinkedIn Messaging
Better messaging starts with better relationships. ConnectSafely.ai helps by:
- Building visibility through strategic content engagement before you message
- Creating recognition so recipients know who you are when you reach out
- Establishing authority that makes your messages more credible
- Zero ban risk because the approach builds authentic relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best length for a LinkedIn message?
Messages under 100 words see the highest response rates. On mobile especially, shorter messages feel easier to read and respond to. Aim for 50-75 words for cold outreach, with maximum 150 words for warmer connections.
How do I write a LinkedIn message that gets responses?
Start with a personalized hook showing you've researched them, lead with the value they'll gain, and end with a low-friction ask. Keep it brief, be genuine, and avoid immediate sales pitches. Messages that feel like mass templates get ignored.
When is the best time to send LinkedIn messages?
Tuesday through Thursday, 9-11am or 1-3pm in the recipient's timezone perform best. Monday mornings work after 10am. Avoid weekends, late evenings, and Friday afternoons when response rates drop significantly.
How many times should I follow up on LinkedIn?
Send maximum 2-3 follow-ups spaced 7-10 days apart. Each follow-up should add new value rather than just asking again. If no response after three attempts, move on—persistence becomes harassment.
Should I use InMail or direct messages on LinkedIn?
Use direct messages for 1st-degree connections (free and higher response rates). Use InMail for important non-connections when you need to reach them specifically. InMail requires more compelling personalization since recipients face higher skepticism.
How do I avoid sounding salesy in LinkedIn messages?
Lead with value rather than asks. Reference specific details from their profile or content. Don't pitch in first messages. Focus on starting conversations rather than closing deals. Be genuinely curious about their challenges rather than just pushing your solution.
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