Crafting Winning LinkedIn InMail Subject Lines

Published Date: 9/26/2024

The perfect InMail message in the world of LinkedIn might vary based on why it so profoundly impacts your outreach efforts. Your body message is important, but what comes first on your recipient's screen is the subject line. It is what will make the difference between opened or overlooked messages. In this article, we will find best practices for making effective subject lines in LinkedIn InMail that would capture people's attention and drive engagement.

What is that, though? InMail on LinkedIn

Okay, but before we get too granular with subject lines, first let's take a step back and precisely define what LinkedIn InMail is. InMail is the ability to send a message to any LinkedIn member irrespective of whether you two happen to be connected or not. It's super-useful for sales reps, recruiters, and marketers trying to connect with potential candidates or leads beyond your immediate network. But just as with great power comes great competition: how will yours stand out amongst the din in the inbox?

Importance of Subject Lines

Your subject line is essentially a mini-advertisement for your InMail message. It has to be compelling enough to open the message, yet not so vague that the recipient has no idea what to expect inside. A better subject line will then generally see better open rates, better engagement, and ultimately a few more successful connections.

Best Practices for InMail Subject Lines

1. Short and Sweet

LinkedIn InMail subject lines should be short. Give your subject line the best shot at being 100 percent readable on any device by aiming at 40-50 characters in length. A short subject line is easier to scan and most likely to catch attention with a glance.

2. Personalize Where Possible

The most important condition that influences InMail response is personalization. Knowing the recipient provides a potential common connection or recommendation that can create interest. For example, "Hi [Name], really enjoyed your latest post on [Topic]" sounds much more personal than just a form letter salutation.

3. Action-Oriented Language

Action verbs: action words activate activity in your target. Words like "Find", "Join" or "Learn", will create curiosity and fuel interest. Example: "Find New Strategies for [Benefit]"--there is something worth knowing inside the envelope, waiting for people to discover it.

4. Value and Benefits

It has to be meaningful to the value of opening your message by the recipient. Instead of telling them what it is you want to talk to them about, frame it in the benefit they will obtain through reading your email. For instance, "Unlock Opportunities for [Specific Benefit." So it leaves no question as to what is in it for opening your outreach.

5. Asking Questions

Questions will generate an urge to open. A fantastic question in your subject line will capture receivers' interest to open your InMail for answers. For example, "Ready to Take Your [Skill/Strategy] to the Next Level?" prompts the recipient to consider if they are prepared for that discussion.

6. Closing

This can cause the recipient to open the message sooner rather than later if the message made instant urgency. Some of these examples are where words, of course, are in the message like "Limited Time Offer" or "Don't Miss Out." Still, don't let a message worth opening be such a tease.

7. No Spammy Language

You may receive spam alerts for certain words and phrases. Others will raise red flags with your recipients. Avoid the worst offenders: over-promotional language, over-punctuation, and all caps. Gimmicky subject lines scare recipients away from reading your message.

Examples of Good Subject Lines

1."Hello [Name], inspired by your thoughts on [Topic]" is a personalized greeting.

2. Action-based: "Webinar Invitation: [ Relevant Topic]"

3. Value-led: "Unlock Secrets for [Specific Benefit]"

4. Question-based: "Are you ready to change your [Skill/Strategy]?"

5. Timely: "Last Chance to Register for [Event/Opportunity]"

Conclusion

Good LinkedIn InMail subject lines are one of those things that you just have to learn in your journey to maximize your outreach. With best practices such as the ones listed here, you can be sure to get some attention, make value statements, and get folks engaged.

Remember, a subject line is the way in for your message. So, a news headline will attract the attention of a reader and compel them to open your InMail to become familiar with your content. A well-crafted strategy involves personalizing your message, highlighting benefits, and presenting it in a tone that appeals to your target audience. Thoughtful subject lines can channel LinkedIn outreach into strong connections, paving the way for success in your professional endeavors.

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