When hosting an event on LinkedIn, organizers have the option to send reminders to guests who have been invited or have expressed interest in attending. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at LinkedIn’s event tools and whether the platform sends automated reminders for upcoming events.
LinkedIn Events Overview
LinkedIn’s events platform allows users to create event listings that will appear in other members’ feeds. Event hosts can provide key details like the event name, date/time, location, description, and link to register. They can also upload images and set options for in-person, online, or hybrid events.
Once an event is published on LinkedIn, there are a few ways members can engage with it:
– View the event listing and details
– Like/react to the event
– Comment on the event
– Share the event with their own networks
– Indicate interest in attending the event
– Register for the event through the provided link
As the host, you can track engagement on your event and see who has liked, commented, shared, or expressed interest. From there, you can message event prospects directly or follow up with them about attending.
Inviting Guests
In addition to posting a public event, hosts on LinkedIn can also send direct invites to select connections. To do this, you would:
1. Click “Invite” when creating/editing the event.
2. Search for connections to invite.
3. Select invitees and customize invitation message.
4. Send invites.
Once invited, guests can click attending, comment on the event, and add it to their calendar.
Do LinkedIn Events Send Reminder Emails?
Now that we’ve reviewed how LinkedIn events work, let’s discuss the key question – does LinkedIn automatically send reminder emails to event guests?
The short answer is **no**, LinkedIn does not send automated reminder emails about upcoming events to invited guests or interested members.
Instead, the responsibility falls on the event organizer to send reminders and follow up with guests. LinkedIn simply provides the tools to create the event, engage your network, and message prospects. But it does not offer built-in email reminders leading up to the event date.
There are a few reasons why LinkedIn does not handle event reminders:
– **User Control:** LinkedIn wants to give event organizers full control over when and how they communicate with guests. Hosts may prefer to follow up in different ways depending on the type of event.
– **Avoid Spam:** Automatically sending reminders could potentially irritate users with unwanted emails. LinkedIn avoids this by letting hosts manage their own guest communications.
– **Focus on Connections:** LinkedIn’s events are centered around leveraging your professional network. So they want hosts to personally reach out and engage with guests.
How to Send Event Reminders on LinkedIn
As the event host, it falls on you to send event reminders to your guests on LinkedIn. Here are some tips for doing this effectively:
– **Customize the Message:** Avoid blasting generic reminders. Include key event details and make it personal if possible.
– **Tag Attendees:** Use @ mentions when posting reminder updates about the event to notify guests.
– **Direct Message:** Send individual messages to guests with a personalized reminder and link to the event.
– **Follow Up:** Send initial reminders 1-2 weeks before the event, then follow up again a few days before.
– **Update Attendees:** Let guests know about any new event developments like schedule changes, speakers added, etc.
– **Thank Attendees:** Show appreciation by sending a thank you note to all guests after the event.
Using Other Tools for Event Reminders
Since LinkedIn does not handle automatic event reminder emails, hosts need to rely on external tools integrated with LinkedIn:
Email Marketing Software
Tools like MailChimp, Constant Contact, Hubspot, and more allow you to design email templates, collect contact lists, and set up automated reminder workflows. Most integrate with LinkedIn to sync contact data.
Calendar Apps
Apps like Google Calendar and Outlook have event creation and remainder features. Host event details on Google Calendar then use reminders to follow up with guests by email.
CRM Platforms
CRM systems like Salesforce, Zoho, and others include event management and email capabilities. Create the event in your CRM, then leverage email automations to send reminders.
Social Media Management Tools
Management platforms like Hootsuite and Sprout Social allow you to schedule social media posts and messages across platforms like LinkedIn. Use these to stagger your event reminders.
Best Practices for LinkedIn Event Reminders
When sending event reminders to LinkedIn guests, keep these best practices in mind:
– Send initial save-the-date reminders 3-4 weeks in advance. Follow up with more details closer to the event date.
– Segment your audience and customize reminders for guests, speakers, sponsors, etc.
– Vary your reminder format – post updates, send messages, use email, and more.
– Promote event registration links and highlight why the event is valuable. Offer discounts for early registration.
– Appreciate guest feedback and accommodate requests and questions as much as possible.
– Follow up after the event to collect feedback, share photos, and thank all who participated.
Conclusion
LinkedIn provides excellent tools for creating events and engaging your professional network. However, the platform does not automatically send reminder emails to event participants and interested guests. As the event organizer, you are responsible for managing communications through LinkedIn messaging, public posts, and external tools like email providers.
With some effort put into reminders and follow up, you can achieve high turnout and satisfaction for your LinkedIn events. A timely, professional, and personalized approach is key. This allows you to strengthen connections and establish your credibility as a thought leader in your industry.