Yes, LinkedIn allows you to send direct messages to connect and communicate with other members. The platform offers a messaging feature that enables you to have one-on-one conversations or group chats with your connections.
Sending messages to your connections
To send a message on LinkedIn, you first need to connect with the member you want to message. Once connected, you can access your connections’ profiles and find the “Message” button to start a conversation.
On the LinkedIn mobile app, tap on “My Network” at the bottom, choose “Connections,” then tap on the profile of the connection you want to message. On the desktop site, search for your connection’s profile or access your connections list and click “Message” on their profile.
This will open up a messaging window where you can type your message. LinkedIn messages have a character limit of 5,000 characters per message. You can send text, emojis, GIFs, images, and attachments like PDFs and documents.
Messages on LinkedIn go into your connection’s inbox. They will get a notification that you messaged them and can reply to continue the conversation. It works just like an email or text exchange.
Starting new conversations
In addition to messaging existing connections, you can also send messages to members you are not connected to. This is a great way to introduce yourself and request a connection.
To message a member you’re not connected to, go to their profile and click “Message.” You’ll have the option to include a note that will be included with your connection request. Sending an introductory message can give your request more context.
The recipient can then accept or ignore your request. If they accept, you will become connections and can message each other directly in the future.
Participating in group conversations
LinkedIn also facilitates group messaging. You can message multiple connections at once to collaborate, share ideas, or organize events.
On desktop, you can go to a connection’s profile and click the “Start a group conversation” button. Select the connections you want to include and start messaging. On mobile, tap your own profile icon in the conversations list, then “New conversation” to add participants.
Everyone you include will be able to view and participate in the group conversation. This allows for productive team chats or professional networking conversations.
Communicating with your network
Messaging on LinkedIn is a great way to strengthen relationships with your professional network. Here are some ways to use LinkedIn messaging effectively:
- Follow up after meeting someone in person – Continue the conversation digitally
- Maintain contact with colleagues and teammates – Collaborate on projects
- Reach out to an industry influencer or leader – Make new connections
- Share career updates and accomplishments
- Send reminders about events, meetings, or opportunities
LinkedIn messaging tips
To make the most of LinkedIn messaging, keep these tips in mind:
- Personalize your messages with the recipient’s name
- Be clear and concise about your reason for messaging
- Reply promptly to continue conversations
- Avoid sharing sensitive personal information
- Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization
- Add visual interest with emojis and images when appropriate
LinkedIn messaging settings
You have control over your LinkedIn messaging experience in the settings. On desktop, click your profile image and find “Settings & Privacy.” On mobile, tap “Me” then “Settings.”
In settings you can:
- Turn messaging sounds/notifications on or off
- Enable read receipts
- Choose who can message you – Connections only or anyone on LinkedIn
Adjust these based on your preferences for getting messages through LinkedIn. You can also control notifications for messages in your main device notification settings.
Additional LinkedIn communication features
Along with direct messaging, LinkedIn offers some other ways to interact and share information with connections:
- InMail – Send private emails to members you’re not connected to. Available through premium subscriptions.
- Feed posts – Share articles, images, and updates on your profile feed.
- Comments – Respond to other members’ posts and media.
- @Mentioning – Tag connections in your posts and comments to notify them.
- Praise/Recommendations – Formally recognize someone’s skills and accomplishments.
Conclusion
LinkedIn messaging allows for direct communication that can expand your professional network and opportunities. Use it to strengthen valuable connections, collaborate with colleagues, and make new contacts in your industry.
By starting conversations and applying the best practices for engaging messages, you can build relationships that support your career goals and business initiatives.