The best LinkedIn InMail subject lines: Secrets to maximize open rates and response rates

Erik Fiala
Erik Fiala
Founder, CEO at Source
Feb 15, 2023
6 min read
A LinkedIn logo sticker on a glass door of the LinkedIn office

LinkedIn is the largest professional networking platform with over 722 million users worldwide. As a result, it is a great place to expand your network, promote your brand, and recruit new talent. One of the most effective ways to reach out to someone on LinkedIn is through InMail. InMail is a messaging system that allows you to directly message someone even if you are not connected to them.

However, just like any other form of email, the success of your InMail campaign largely depends on the subject line. A great subject line can increase the open and response rates of your InMail, while a weak one can result in your message being ignored. In this article, we will discuss the best LinkedIn InMail subject lines to maximize your open and response rates.

Table of contents

  1. Understanding the importance of a great LinkedIn InMail subject line
  2. Characteristics of a great LinkedIn InMail subject line
  3. The best LinkedIn InMail subject lines
  4. Tips for crafting the perfect LinkedIn InMail subject line
  5. Conclusion
  6. FAQ

Understanding the importance of a great LinkedIn InMail subject line

A subject line is the first thing that a recipient sees when they receive an email. It is the hook that entices the recipient to open the email and read the content. The subject line is also the first and sometimes the only impression you make on the recipient. A great subject line can grab the recipient's attention, increase the open rate, and ultimately result in a response.

Characteristics of a great LinkedIn InMail subject line

A great LinkedIn InMail subject line should have the following characteristics:

Short and sweet

The subject line should be short and sweet, ideally no more than 50 characters. This is because most email clients only display the first 50 characters of a subject line. The subject line should be clear, concise, and to the point.

Relevant

The subject line should be relevant to the recipient and the purpose of the InMail. The subject line should clearly communicate the purpose of the InMail and what the recipient can expect from the content.

Personalized

The subject line should be personalized, including the recipient's name if possible. Personalizing the subject line makes the InMail more personal and increases the chances of the recipient opening the email.

Action-oriented

The subject line should be action-oriented, including a call-to-action that encourages the recipient to take action. For example, "Connect with me to discuss [topic]" or "Learn about [topic] with me."

The best LinkedIn InMail subject lines

Based on the characteristics of a great LinkedIn InMail subject line, here are the best subject lines to maximize your open and response rates:

  1. Personalized introduction: "Hi [Name], Let's connect and talk about [topic]"
  2. Opportunity for collaboration: "Collaborate with me on [topic]"
  3. Help with a problem: "Need help with [problem], let's connect"
  4. Expertise offer: "Offering my expertise in [topic]"
  5. Referral request: "Referred by [person], interested in connecting"
  6. Invitation to an event: "Invitation: Join me at [event name]"
  7. Introduce a service or product: "Introducing [product/service], interested in connecting?"
  8. Opportunity for growth: "Opportunity for growth, let's connect"
  9. Alumni connection: "Alumni connection, [university name]"
  10. Professional connection request: "Professional connection request, [position and company name]"

Tips for crafting the perfect LinkedIn InMail subject line

  1. Test and refine: Try different subject lines and refine your approach based on the results. A/B testing is a great way to find the best subject line for your audience.
  2. Use keywords: Use keywords related to your topic or industry to make your subject line more discoverable.
  3. Be unique: Make your subject line stand out by being unique and creative. Avoid using generic or clichéd subject lines.
  4. Be consistent: Be consistent with your brand and tone in your subject line. This will help establish your brand and increase recognition.
  5. Timing iseEverything: Timing is everything, so make sure to send your InMail at the right time for the best results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the subject line of your LinkedIn InMail is crucial to its success. By following the tips and subject lines discussed in this article, you can maximize your open and response rates, making your LinkedIn InMail a powerful tool for expanding your network, promoting your brand, and recruiting new talent.

FAQ

  1. What is the ideal length for a LinkedIn InMail subject line?

The ideal length for a LinkedIn InMail subject line is no more than 50 characters.

  1. How do I personalize my LinkedIn InMail subject line?

You can personalize your LinkedIn InMail subject line by including the recipient's name in the subject line.

  1. How can I make my LinkedIn InMail subject line more discoverable?

You can make your LinkedIn InMail subject line more discoverable by including keywords related to your topic or industry.

  1. What should I avoid in my LinkedIn InMail subject line?

You should avoid generic or clichéd subject lines and be unique and creative in your approach.

  1. What is the best time to send a LinkedIn InMail?

The best time to send a LinkedIn InMail will vary depending on your target audience and their schedule, so test different times to find the best results for your specific audience.

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