7 Mistakes to Avoid When Using LinkedIn InMails for Business Outreach

According to a LinkedIn survey, normal LinkedIn messages open and the response rate is only 21.6%. However, InMails has an open rate of staggering 57.5%. If you're here to optimize your LinkedIn InMails for business outreach, that statistic might have caught your attention. Imagine the opportunities hidden behind those unopened messages! In this blog, we're not just going to help you avoid common mistakes, but we'll also reveal how to ensure your messages belong to the exclusive 15% that actually get noticed and acted upon.

Let's embark on a journey to explore the seven crucial mistakes to avoid when using LinkedIn InMails for business outreach. Along the way, we'll share valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and proven strategies to make your outreach on LinkedIn more effective. So, let's dive in and uncover the secrets to leveraging LinkedIn's powerful tool for building connections and growing your business.

Introduction: The Power of LinkedIn InMails

Have you ever wondered if your outreach emails are getting the attention they deserve? How can you be certain that the recipients are not just sending them to the dreaded 'Spam' folder? In the realm of business outreach, these questions often haunt us. Fortunately, LinkedIn's InMails are a powerful tool designed to tackle these uncertainties and help you connect with your professional network.

LinkedIn InMails allow you to send direct messages to LinkedIn users who aren't in your immediate connections. It's a fantastic opportunity to foster valuable connections and reach out to potential clients or partners. However, there are common pitfalls that many professionals fall into when using InMails. In this blog, we'll discuss these mistakes and provide insights on how to use InMails effectively to maximize your outreach efforts.

Let's dive into these common mistakes and learn how to make your LinkedIn InMails work wonders for your business outreach.

Mistake 1: Neglecting Personalization

One of the gravest errors you can make when using InMails is sending generic, one-size-fits-all messages. Remember, a personalized message is more likely to be well-received. Generic outreach not only feels impersonal but can also come across as spammy. To create that personal touch:

- Address the recipient by name.

- Mention something specific from their profile or recent activity.

- Explain why you're reaching out and how it benefits both parties.

Personalization humanizes your message and shows that you've put thought into your outreach. It's not just about you; it's about creating a connection.

Smartlead.ai Solution: 

Smartlead.ai's InMail Personalization feature can help you tailor your messages effortlessly. With dynamic placeholders, you can insert the recipient's name and other personalized details automatically. It's a simple yet effective way to ensure your InMails stand out.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Proper Timing

Sending your InMails at the wrong time can result in your messages being overlooked or lost in the recipient's inbox. If your message arrives during a busy period, there's a good chance it will go unnoticed. The timing matters, and it's essential to consider the recipient's schedule and time zone.

- Research the best times to send InMails. Tools like LinkedIn analytics can provide valuable insights.

- Avoid sending messages during weekends or late at night.

- Experiment with different days and times to see what works best for your target audience.

Proper timing increases the chances of your InMail being seen and responded to.

Mistake 3: Neglecting a Clear Call to Action (CTA)

Your InMail should have a clear and compelling Call to Action (CTA). Without it, your recipient might not know how to respond or what you expect from them. Your CTA should be concise and persuasive, making it easy for the recipient to take the desired action.

- Use action-oriented verbs in your CTA, such as "Connect with me," "Schedule a call," or "Let's discuss further."

- Make it clear why taking this action would benefit the recipient.

- Keep your CTA concise and to the point.

A well-crafted CTA can significantly increase your response rate.

Mistake 4: Writing Lengthy and Overwhelming Messages

In the digital age, attention spans are shorter than ever. Sending a lengthy, detailed message right off the bat can overwhelm your recipient and deter them from engaging with your message. Instead:

- Keep your message concise and focused.

- Highlight the key points and benefits.

- Leave room for a two-way conversation.

Remember, the initial InMail is about starting a conversation, not delivering your entire pitch.

Smartlead.ai Solution:

With Smartlead.ai's InMail Analytics, you can track the engagement of your recipients. If they haven't opened your message, it may be an indicator that it's too long or complex. You can use this data to refine your messaging strategy.

Mistake 5: Neglecting to Follow Up

Sending a single InMail and waiting for a response is a common mistake. Sometimes, your initial message might be missed or forgotten. Following up is crucial for keeping the conversation alive. Here's how to do it right:

- Wait a reasonable amount of time before following up. A week or two is often appropriate.

- Reference your previous message to jog the recipient's memory.

- Reinforce the value of your offer or request in your follow-up.

Moreover, following up demonstrates your commitment and can lead to better response rates.

Smartlead.ai Solution:

Smartlead.ai's Follow-up Reminder feature can help you schedule and automate follow-up messages. This ensures you never miss an opportunity to reconnect and nurture your relationships.

Mistake 6: Lack of Social Proof

Building trust is essential when reaching out to potential clients or partners. Without social proof, your recipient may be hesitant to engage with you. Include social proof in your InMail by:

- Mentioning mutual connections or shared experiences.

- Showcasing testimonials or success stories.

- Citing relevant accomplishments or publications.

Social proof lends credibility to your outreach and can make a significant difference in response rates.

Mistake 7: Forgetting to Track and Analyze

One of the most common mistakes is not tracking and analyzing the performance of your InMails. Without insights into what's working and what's not, you're essentially flying blind. To avoid this mistake:

- Use LinkedIn analytics to monitor the open and response rates of your InMails.

- Experiment with different subject lines and messaging approaches.

- Learn from the data and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Thus, tracking and analyzing your InMail performance is crucial for continuous improvement.

Final Words

Using LinkedIn InMails for business outreach can be a game-changer when done right. By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you can significantly improve your response rates and the overall effectiveness of your outreach efforts. Remember, personalization, timing, a clear CTA, concise messaging, follow-ups, social proof, and data analysis are the keys to success.

At Smartlead.ai, we are dedicated to helping you harness the power of LinkedIn InMails for your business growth. Try Smartlead.ai today, and experience the difference in your LinkedIn outreach efforts.