Messaging someone on LinkedIn is generally acceptable if done appropriately and for professional reasons. The key is knowing when it’s appropriate and having a meaningful purpose behind the message.
Consider your relationship
If you already have an established relationship with the person, either personally or professionally, it is usually fine to send them a message on LinkedIn. For example, messaging a former colleague you want to catch up with or someone you met at a conference who you want to follow up with would likely be welcomed.
If you have no prior relationship, take care in how you approach them. Cold messaging someone out of the blue should be done thoughtfully. Make sure you share common connections or interests that give context for why you are reaching out before asking for something.
Have a professional purpose
Messages should relate to professional matters, not personal ones. Appropriate reasons to message someone include:
- Asking for career advice
- Following up on a job application
- Seeking an introduction through a shared connection
- Connecting about a conference you both attended
- Requesting an informational interview
Avoid overt sales pitches or solicitations unless you have a clearly established business relationship. Also avoid asking inappropriate personal questions or for personal favors.
Customize your message
Personalized messages have a much higher chance of getting a response than generic templates. Take the time to craft a custom message demonstrating you looked at their profile and considered why this person in particular may be able to help you.
Reference specifics like where you went to school, worked at the same company, or share interests relevant to your outreach. Make it clear you are reaching out to them specifically, not just blasting messages to any connection.
Keep it short and focused
Get to the point quickly and keep your initial message brief. People are more likely to engage with short, focused messages rather than long blocks of text. Summarize who you are, why you are reaching out, and what you are asking for in just a few sentences.
You can provide more background later once you have engaged them. Avoid overly formal language and keep the tone conversational but professional. And don’t expect an immediate response – give people time to see and respond to your message.
When is it inappropriate to message someone?
There are certain circumstances when it is best to avoid messaging someone on LinkedIn:
- You have no shared connections or context for reaching out
- You are pitching a product or service unsolicited
- You are asking for a job or internship without formally applying
- You are requesting sensitive personal information
- You are sending overtly flirtatious or inappropriate messages
Essentially, if your message could make the recipient uncomfortable or serves no clear professional purpose, reconsider your outreach.
How to message respectfully
To keep your outreach respectful, consider the following:
- Be transparent about your intent and do not misrepresent yourself
- Respect boundaries and do not be overly aggressive in follow-ups
- Accept that some people may not respond – do not take it personally
- Use a professional tone – no slang, nicknames or emojis
- Avoid assumptions and do not ask overly personal questions
- Do not make requests that could put someone in an uncomfortable position
The other person is more likely to respond positively if you are polite, gracious if they decline or ignore you, and overall mindful that LinkedIn is a professional platform.
Tips for more effective messages
To increase your chances of getting a response, incorporate these best practices:
- Personalize each message with specifics about why you are reaching out to that particular individual
- Proofread for typos and grammar – sloppy messages reflect poorly on you
- Use an appropriate subject line that conveys the reason for your message
- Highlight common ground and shared experiences or interests you have
- Be clear on any requested action but do not demand or dictate terms
- Thank them for their time and consideration of your request
- Follow up if needed but do not badger – move on if you get no response after a few tries
- Stay positive in tone – do not come across as desperate or entitled to their help
In summary…
Messaging on LinkedIn is fine for professional networking and development when done respectfully, politely, and with consideration for the other person’s time and boundaries. Make sure your messages have a clear purpose, customize them to the recipient, and follow proper etiquette. With the right approach, connecting via LinkedIn messages can lead to productive conversations and mutually beneficial relationships.
