LinkedIn message is a private messaging feature on LinkedIn that allows users to communicate directly with other members of the professional networking platform. It enables users to send private messages to connect and build relationships for career or business opportunities.
Overview of LinkedIn Messaging
LinkedIn messaging functions similarly to email, allowing two-way communication between LinkedIn members. Users can start conversations with their 1st degree connections without needing an email address. It provides a private and secure way to reach out to other professionals on LinkedIn.
With LinkedIn messaging, users can:
- Send private messages to 1st degree connections
- Receive messages from 1st degree connections
- Attach files and media in messages
- See when recipients read the messages
- Organize messages into conversations
LinkedIn messaging is available on LinkedIn’s website and mobile apps. The LinkedIn messaging inbox shows all ongoing conversations, making it easy to pick up where you left off. Users can also customize notifications for new messages.
Who Can Send and Receive Messages
LinkedIn limits messaging to only 1st degree connections to maintain privacy and prevent spam. This means you can only message members who are directly connected to you on LinkedIn.
Specifically, you can send and receive messages from:
- Your 1st degree connections who you are connected with directly
- People who have accepted your connection request
- People who you have sent a pending connection request to
You cannot message 2nd or 3rd degree connections, members outside your network, or people who you have invited to connect but have not responded. Trying to message them will prompt you to send a connection request first.
Starting a LinkedIn Message
There are a few ways to start a new message on LinkedIn:
- Go to a connection’s profile, click “More” next to the message button on their profile, and select “Send message”
- Go to your messages inbox, click the compose button, and search for the connection’s name
- If you receive a message from a connection, simply reply to the message thread
When composing a new message, you can attach files, images, audio, and video just like email. LinkedIn supports attachments up to 25MB in size.
Replying to LinkedIn Messages
When someone messages you on LinkedIn, you can reply directly from your inbox. Click on the conversation with the newest message and type your reply in the text box at the bottom.
Replying will keep the back-and-forth communication neatly organized in one message thread. You’ll see the full history of the conversation, including all previous messages, files, and media.
LinkedIn will notify you via email and push notifications when you receive a new message. You can customize notifications in your LinkedIn account settings.
Additional LinkedIn Messaging Features
Here are some other useful features of LinkedIn messaging:
- Read receipts – See when your message is read by the recipient.
- Typing indicators – Visually see when the other person is typing a reply to you.
- Message organization – Messages are neatly organized into conversations for easy tracking.
- Search – Easily search through all your messages to find past conversations.
- Notifications – Get notified of new messages via email, push notifications, or in-product alerts.
LinkedIn Messaging Etiquette
When using LinkedIn messaging, follow these etiquette tips:
- Be professional – You are messaging career contacts, not friends.
- Personalize each message – Take time to write a unique message for each recipient.
- Keep messages concise – Respect the recipient’s time and get to the point.
- Proofread before sending – Check for typos, grammar, etc. in your messages.
- Reply promptly – Respond to messages within 24 hours when possible.
- Avoid spamming – Do not send copy-paste messages in mass.
LinkedIn Messaging vs InMail
LinkedIn messaging differs from LinkedIn InMail in a few key ways:
- Messaging is free, while InMail requires a premium subscription.
- You can only message 1st degree connections, while InMail reaches anyone.
- InMail has tracking pixels, while messaging just shows read receipts.
- InMail delivers to the recipient’s inbox, while messages go to a separate inbox.
In summary, LinkedIn messaging provides a free way to communicate with your direct network connections. InMail is paid but offers broader reach.
Using LinkedIn Messaging Effectively
Here are some tips to use LinkedIn messaging effectively:
- Personalize connection requests – Mention common ground from profiles to establish rapport.
- Send thoughtful introductions – When asking for introductions, explain why you are reaching out and how you can help them.
- Follow up after meeting someone – Messaging is a great way to follow up on career conversations.
- Share articles and resources – If you find something interesting for a connection, send it to them.
- Give praise and recognition – Message connections to recognize their accomplishments.
The key is to make your messages relevant and helpful to the recipient. With good messaging etiquette, LinkedIn messaging can build and strengthen connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LinkedIn messaging free?
Yes, LinkedIn messaging is a free feature included with all LinkedIn accounts. Users do not need a premium subscription to send messages.
How do I start a new message on mobile?
On LinkedIn’s mobile app, tap “My Network” at the bottom, tap the profile of the connection you want to message, tap the “Message” icon in the top right, and then compose your message.
Can I message someone who is not a 1st degree connection?
No, you can only message people who are 1st degree connections. To message a 2nd or 3rd degree connection, you would need to send them a connection request first.
Is there a size limit for attachments?
Yes, the maximum attachment size is 25MB per file when sending messages on LinkedIn.
How do I know if my message was read?
LinkedIn displays read receipts below messages. You’ll see “Read” in gray text when the recipient reads your message.
Summary
LinkedIn messaging allows for direct, private communication with your professional connections. It can be highly effective for establishing new career relationships and maintaining existing ones. With proper professional etiquette, it creates opportunities to network and share knowledge.