InMail is LinkedIn’s premium messaging feature that allows users to contact other LinkedIn members outside their immediate network. Unlike standard messages, InMail lets you reach professionals you’re not connected with, making it a powerful tool for networking, recruiting, and sales outreach.
How InMail Works
InMail is available to LinkedIn Premium and Sales Navigator subscribers, who receive a monthly quota of InMail credits. Each credit allows you to send one message to any LinkedIn user, even if you are not connected. Recipients can reply without needing a Premium account.
When you send an InMail, LinkedIn encourages personalized, relevant messages to increase response rates. If your message does not receive a reply within 90 days, LinkedIn typically refunds the InMail credit, allowing you to try again with a different approach.
InMail messages appear in the recipient’s LinkedIn inbox, separate from regular connection requests or group messages. This distinction helps your outreach stand out and appear more professional.
Why InMail Matters
InMail bridges the gap between cold outreach and meaningful networking by enabling direct contact with decision-makers, potential clients, or industry leaders. For recruiters, it’s a critical tool to approach candidates who may not be actively looking but fit the role perfectly.
Studies show that personalized InMail messages have a 10-25% higher response rate than generic emails or connection requests (LinkedIn Business Blog). This higher engagement means better chances of starting valuable conversations.
By allowing professionals to bypass the limitations of first-degree connections, InMail expands your reach and potential influence on LinkedIn, making it essential for strategic networking and business development.
How to Use InMail Effectively
- Personalize each message with the recipient’s name, role, and relevant context.
- Keep your message concise and focused on how you can provide value.
- Avoid generic sales pitches; aim for genuine engagement or shared interests.
- Follow up politely if you don’t get a response within a couple of weeks.
- Track your InMail performance and refine your approach using tools like Connection Composer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many InMail credits do I get each month?
The number of InMail credits depends on your LinkedIn subscription plan. Premium Career accounts typically include 5 credits per month, while Sales Navigator plans offer more. Unused credits often roll over for a limited time.
Can I send InMail to anyone on LinkedIn?
You can send InMail to most LinkedIn members outside your network, but some users restrict who can message them. Additionally, InMail is not available for free LinkedIn accounts.
For more detailed strategies, see our LinkedIn InMail Guide. To learn about related premium features, check out LinkedIn Premium and LinkedIn Sales Navigator.