There is no right or wrong answer on how to reply to a LinkedIn message perfectly. It is important to understand how LinkedIn works and what LinkedIn users might want to read beyond a simple ‘thank you for connecting’ message. In this article, we will explain how you can reply to a LinkedIn message that has a positive experience for the recruiter or any reader.
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How to reply to LinkedIn messages?
In your reply, begin with a greeting and appreciate them for sending a message. If you are replying to an individual, be specific to them. Describe the information in the message and your interest in it. List the relevant details about yourself and ask them any questions if you have. You can share your contact number or ask for their number to get on a call. Add your final remarks and end with a closing.
How to respond to a recruiter message on LinkedIn?
The world’s largest professional network is not only beneficial for job seekers but also for recruiters who seek out potential talent on the platform. Often, individuals overlook their messages thinking they are automated messages, and however, there is a human on the other side, so take time to reply to those messages.
Recruiters make your job search easier. There is a way to respond to those recruiters once you get a notification of the InMail message. There might be chances that you are interested in the job opportunity, and sometimes you might not be interested in the role offered. In both cases, you should respond to the recruiter as a professional courtesy.
How to respond to a recruiter if you are interested in the job?
If you are interested in the job, you should respond right away. Here are a few tips on how to send a message to a recruiter:
- Find out why they reached out to you.
- Express appreciation for reaching out.
- Provide information about yourself, your career goals, and why you are interested in the opportunity.
- Finish the message by taking the conversation offline by providing your contact number underneath your name.
- If you want to talk to them over a phone, set up a time and ask questions about the role, Organization and discuss your background & qualifications.
- You can also ask about the job responsibilities, salary, location, company culture, etc.,
Example,
Hi [Recruiter’s name],
Thank you for reaching out with a great opportunity.
I am interested in [Company’s] [Job title] role, and I am curious to find out more about the job specifics. Can you provide me with more details about the role?
I am curious if there is potential for a good fit. Would you be open to discussing this over a call? I would appreciate it.
Let me know what times work best for you. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your first name]
[Contact number]
How to respond to a recruiter if you are not interested in the job?
If you are not interested in the job, it’s completely ok. However, be courteous to reply. Take a moment to thank the recruiter for reaching out. Here are a few tips to consider while sending a message:
- Briefly explain why the position is not suitable for you.
- Let them know the type of positions you are open to.
- Please do not cut the connection with the recruiter as they can help you in the future.
- You can send them your resume to keep for any future opportunities.
- If you know someone who may be relevant to the role, you can refer them to the recruiter.
Example,
Hi [Recruiter name],
Thank you for reaching out for the [Job title]; I appreciate it.
While the role and the company you work for seem interesting, I must say, I am pretty happy with the company I currently work for and the work I do.
If I decide to make a change in the future, I will certainly be in touch.
Thanks again for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
4 Best Practices on how to respond on LinkedIn
Keep it concise
Keep your message brief and to the point without losing your prospect’s attention.
End the conversation with a call to action
The reader is less likely to respond if you leave the conversation with a statement. When you end with a question such as ‘Would love to know more about the company and the role,’ the person will be more receptive to speaking with you.
Try to connect with people when they are active
The best way is to reply shortly after receiving a message. That way, you are probably catching them at a good time. In addition to that, try to message during standard weekday office hours, 9 am to 5 pm. You can also test the water to see when you get the most responses.
Check your inbox frequently
It is easier to converse when your inbox is up to date. If your inbox is cluttered with messages, you could miss out on some crucial conversations.
3 LinkedIn responses to avoid:
Don’t be aggressive
Remember, there’s an actual human on the other side. People don’t like to be sold to. Connect with someone with an organic conversation such as ‘glad we connected’ and let it flow naturally. If someone isn’t interested in networking with you, don’t try to sell them or become aggressive and ask why. A simple response could be ‘thank you for letting me know. If I can be of any help, feel free to reach out any time.’
Keep your message conversational
Be professional, but don’t be like a robot. Make your message conversational where your text reads like how we speak in real life.
Don’t drop your calendar link in your message
If people ask you to schedule a meeting, ask them for a date and time that works for them rather than sending your calendar link. Remember, people are busy, and they tend to forget. Get their email id and schedule a meeting in your calendar.
Key Takeaways
Your reply to a LinkedIn message depends upon what type of message you receive. There is no perfect way to send a message, but it’s important to follow the best practices and how you write your messages. You can follow the tips, best practices and examples shared in this article to customize your message before sending it to anyone.
