Can you create a distribution list in LinkedIn?

Yes, you can create a distribution list in LinkedIn. LinkedIn allows you to create customized contact lists to easily message groups of connections on LinkedIn. These contact lists are called distribution lists.

Distribution lists allow you to message up to 100 LinkedIn connections at once. You can use distribution lists to send messages to common groups like your team, company contacts, clients, vendors, or networking connections. Sending messages through distribution lists on LinkedIn can help you communicate efficiently.

What is a Distribution List?

A distribution list, also called a contact list, is a customized list of LinkedIn connections. The distribution list allows you to message multiple LinkedIn connections at the same time.

When you create a distribution list in LinkedIn, you add specific connections to a list. You give the list a name to identify it. Then when you want to message the group, you can select that distribution list to easily message everyone on it.

Distribution lists are useful for common groups that you communicate with regularly. For example, you may create distribution lists for:

– Your team members
– Colleagues in your department
– Company executives
– Clients
– Vendors
– Recruiters
– Networking contacts
– Industry experts
– Event attendees
– Project teams
– Committees

Distribution lists allow you to easily keep in touch with important groups by messaging everyone at once.

How to Create a Distribution List in LinkedIn

Creating a distribution list in LinkedIn is easy to do. Here are the steps:

1. Go to the LinkedIn messaging screen. This can be done by clicking the “Messaging” icon in the top navigation bar.

2. In the left sidebar, click “Create a list”.

3. Give your distribution list a name. For example, you may name it after your team, company, clients, networking group, or other defining group.

4. Search for connections to add to the list. You can only add 1st degree connections.

5. Click the plus icon next to each connection to add them to the list.

6. Once you’ve finished adding connections, click “Create” to complete setting up the list.

Now your distribution list will be saved in the left sidebar for easy access when messaging. You can add up to 100 connections to a single distribution list.

Messaging a Distribution List

Once you create a distribution list, messaging it is simple. Here is how to message connections in a LinkedIn distribution list:

1. Go to the LinkedIn messaging screen and open a new message.

2. In the recipient line, click the icon to browse your connections.

3. Select the distribution list you want to message.

4. Compose your message and click “Send”.

Your message will now instantly be sent to each connection in that distribution list. It’s a fast way to reach your important groups!

Editing Distribution Lists

You may need to update your distribution lists if your connections change. Here is how to edit LinkedIn distribution lists:

– To add connections, select the list and click “Add Connections”. Search for and select new connections to add.

– To remove connections, hover over their name and click the “X” icon.

– To rename a list, hover over the name and click the pencil icon.

– To delete a list, hover over the name and click the trash icon.

Keeping your distribution lists updated ensures you can always easily message the right groups.

LinkedIn Distribution List Limitations

There are some limits to be aware of with LinkedIn distribution lists:

– You can only add 1st degree connections to lists.

– Distribution lists are limited to 100 connections.

– You can only create a certain number of lists (actual number unpublished by LinkedIn).

– Distribution lists only work for 1-to-many messaging. You cannot include a distribution list in a group message with multiple individuals.

So while distribution lists are very useful, they do have some restrictions in terms of how many you can create and the number of connections allowed in each.

Using Distribution Lists Effectively

To get the most out of LinkedIn distribution lists, keep these best practices in mind:

– Name lists clearly and descriptively. For example, “Acme Company Clients” rather than just “Clients”.

– Organize contacts into thematically relevant lists based on common groups you communicate with.

– Keep lists focused. Avoid overly broad lists like “Other Contacts” that are hard to manage.

– Review and prune your lists regularly to remove outdated contacts.

– Don’t overuse distribution messages. Use personalization and one-to-one messaging when appropriate.

– Make sure your distribution list connections would want and expect to hear from you. Avoid spamming.

– Ensure your message content is relevant and appropriate for that specific audience.

Following these tips will help you get the most mileage out of LinkedIn distribution lists for effective communication.

Pros of LinkedIn Distribution Lists

There are many benefits to using distribution lists for messaging on LinkedIn:

• Saves time – Easy way to message groups fast.
• Organized – Creates clear contact segments for better communication.
• Targeted – Allows focused messaging to specific audiences.
• Scalable – Can message up to 100 connections at once.
• Flexible – Lists are editable as contacts change.
• Convenient – Easy to access lists when messaging.

Overall, distribution lists help streamline your LinkedIn communication and outreach.

Cons of LinkedIn Distribution Lists

The limitations of LinkedIn distribution lists include:

• Contact limits – Capped at 100 connections per list.
• List limits – Restrictions on number of lists you can create.
• 1st degree only – Cannot include 2nd or 3rd degree connections.
• One-way communication – No way to collaborate or discuss as a group.
• Impersonal – Lacks personalization of one-to-one messages.
• Maintenance – Lists can become outdated and need pruning.

While very useful, distribution lists do not replace personalized communication. They work best for one-way broadcasts to existing groups.

LinkedIn Group Messaging Alternative

In addition to distribution lists, you can also leverage LinkedIn Groups for group messaging. Here is how LinkedIn Groups compare:

Distribution Lists

• Contacts limited to direct connections (1st degree)
• 100 connection maximum per list
• Good for established lists and segments
• One-way broadcasts to recipients

LinkedIn Groups

• Open membership beyond 1st connections
• Much larger group sizes possible
• Good for ad-hoc groups and discussions
• Allow for engagement and dialogue

As you can see, LinkedIn Groups offer some advantages in terms of group size, membership, and discussions. Evaluate whether a distribution list or LinkedIn Group better fits your messaging needs.

Conclusion

In summary, LinkedIn distribution lists allow you to easily message up to 100 connections at once by creating saved contact lists. To use them effectively:

• Organize contacts into relevant, focused lists
• Name lists clearly and descriptively
• Review and update lists regularly
• Use targeted, valuable messaging for each audience
• Combine with personalized outreach where appropriate

Distribution lists can optimize your LinkedIn messaging to important groups. But be sure to utilize them strategically and deliberately for the best results.