I used to send dozens of LinkedIn InMails that got completely ignored. My response rate hovered around 5% - basically throwing messages into a black hole. Then I discovered the templates and strategies that changed everything.
I used to send dozens of LinkedIn InMails that got completely ignored. My response rate hovered around 5% - basically throwing messages into a black hole. Then I discovered the templates and strategies that changed everything.
According to LinkedIn's internal data, personalized InMails generate 3x higher response rates than generic messages. The difference between success and failure often comes down to having the right template for each situation.
These 150+ templates cover every professional scenario you'll encounter. From cold networking to warm follow-ups, each message is designed to respect your recipient's time while clearly communicating your value proposition.
Networking and Relationship Building InMail Templates
Building genuine professional relationships through LinkedIn requires finesse - you're essentially asking strangers to invest their time in getting to know you.
Effective networking InMails focus on providing value first, mention specific shared interests or experiences, and include a clear but low-pressure call to action.
- Mutual Connection Introduction: "Hi [Name], [Mutual Connection] mentioned you're doing innovative work in [specific area]. I'm exploring similar challenges at [Your Company] and would love to learn from your experience. Would you be open to a brief coffee chat next week?"Copied!
- Post-Event Follow-up: "Great presentation on [topic] at [Event Name]! Your insight about [specific point] really resonated with my team's current project. I'd love to continue the conversation - are you available for a quick call this week?"Copied!
- Alumni Connection: "Fellow [School Name] alum here! I noticed we both work in [industry] and I'm curious about your transition from [previous role] to [current role]. Would you be open to sharing your insights over a virtual coffee?"Copied!
- Industry Influencer Outreach: "Your recent article on [topic] perfectly captured the challenges we're facing at [Company]. I'd love to share how we're approaching [specific challenge] - perhaps we could exchange insights?"Copied!
Tip: Consider pairing networking conversations with premium coffee subscriptions or local cafe gift cards to make meeting suggestions more appealing.
Job Search and Career Opportunity InMails
Job searching through LinkedIn requires strategic messaging that demonstrates both your qualifications and genuine interest in the specific company.
Job search InMails should demonstrate research about the company, highlight relevant achievements concisely, and express genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
- Hiring Manager Direct Approach: "Hi [Name], I'm excited about the [Position] role at [Company]. My experience leading [specific project] resulted in [quantifiable outcome] that aligns perfectly with your team's goals. Could we schedule a brief call to discuss how I can contribute?"Copied!
- Hidden Opportunity Exploration: "I've been following [Company]'s growth in [specific area] and I'm impressed by your recent [achievement/launch]. With my background in [relevant skill], I'd love to explore how I might contribute to your continued success."Copied!
- Informational Interview Request: "Hi [Name], I'm researching opportunities in [specific field] and would value your perspective on the industry. Would you have 15 minutes for a brief call to share insights about working at [Company]?"Copied!
- Application Follow-up: "Hi [Name], I submitted my application for [Position] last week and wanted to personally express my enthusiasm. My experience with [specific skill/project] directly addresses the challenges mentioned in your job posting."Copied!
Sales and Business Development InMail Templates
B2B sales through LinkedIn requires a delicate balance between being helpful and being direct about your business objectives.
Successful sales InMails avoid pitching immediately, focus on solving specific problems the prospect likely faces, and use social proof to build credibility.
- Cold Prospect Outreach: "Hi [Name], I noticed [Company] recently expanded into [market/location]. We helped [similar company] navigate similar growth challenges, resulting in [specific outcome]. Would you be interested in learning how?"Copied!
- Dormant Lead Re-engagement: "Hi [Name], we connected a few months ago about [topic]. I just came across a case study that directly addresses the challenges you mentioned. Would you like me to share the insights?"Copied!
- Decision-maker Connection: "Hi [Name], I've been working with [Contact Name] on [project/challenge]. They suggested I connect with you since the solution could impact [specific department/goal]. Do you have 10 minutes to discuss?"Copied!
- Profile Viewer Follow-up: "Hi [Name], I noticed you viewed my profile after my recent post about [topic]. I'd love to learn more about your current challenges in [area] and share some relevant insights."Copied!
Tip: Business development conversations often benefit from industry-specific software tools or productivity apps that demonstrate your commitment to efficiency.
Recruiting and Talent Acquisition InMails
Recruiting top talent requires messages that stand out from the dozens of generic recruitment emails professionals receive weekly.
Effective recruiting InMails highlight specific opportunities for career growth, mention company culture and benefits, and respect candidates' time by being direct about expectations.
- Passive Candidate Outreach: "Hi [Name], your background in [specific skill] caught my attention. We're building a team at [Company] that values [specific value/culture element]. Would you be open to a confidential conversation about an exciting opportunity?"Copied!
- Candidate Nurturing: "Hi [Name], thank you for your interest in [Company]. While the [Position] role was filled, I'd love to keep you in mind for future opportunities. Could we schedule a brief call to discuss your career goals?"Copied!
- Skills Gap Potential: "Hi [Name], while your background is in [current field], your experience with [transferable skill] aligns perfectly with our needs. We're looking for someone eager to grow into [new area]. Interested in learning more?"Copied!
- Diversity Recruiting: "Hi [Name], [Company] is committed to building diverse teams that reflect our global customer base. Your background in [specific area] would bring valuable perspective to our [department]. Would you be interested in exploring opportunities?"Copied!
Partnership and Collaboration InMail Templates
Strategic partnerships require messages that clearly articulate mutual benefits while demonstrating deep understanding of the recipient's business model.
Partnership InMails should clearly articulate mutual benefits, demonstrate understanding of the recipient's business model, and propose specific next steps for exploration.
- Business Partnership Proposal: "Hi [Name], [Company A] and [Company B] serve complementary markets. I see an opportunity for partnership that could expand both our reach. Your expertise in [area] + our strength in [area] could create significant value. Worth exploring?"Copied!
- Content Collaboration: "Hi [Name], your insights on [topic] align perfectly with our upcoming [project/campaign]. Would you be interested in collaborating on content that showcases both our expertise to our combined audiences?"Copied!
- Investor/Advisor Outreach: "Hi [Name], I've been following your investments in [sector]. [Company] is disrupting [specific area] with [unique approach]. Would you be interested in learning more about our growth trajectory and funding needs?"Copied!
- Partnership Follow-up: "Hi [Name], thank you for our conversation about potential collaboration. I've prepared a brief proposal outlining the mutual benefits we discussed. When would be a good time to review it together?"Copied!
Event and Speaking Opportunity InMails
Securing speaking engagements and event opportunities requires messages that demonstrate your expertise while clearly articulating the value you bring to their audience.
Event-related InMails should highlight your expertise and speaking experience, mention specific value you can provide to their audience, and include links to previous presentations or testimonials.
- Speaker Pitch: "Hi [Name], I'd love to speak at [Event] about [topic]. My presentation on [similar topic] at [Previous Event] received excellent feedback. I can share actionable insights on [specific value] that your audience would find valuable."Copied!
- Exclusive Event Request: "Hi [Name], I understand [Event] is invitation-only. My work in [specific area] aligns closely with your agenda, and I'd bring valuable perspective to the discussions. Would you consider extending an invitation?"Copied!
- Event Partnership: "Hi [Name], [Event] looks fantastic. My company would be interested in sponsoring or partnering to provide additional value to attendees. Could we discuss collaboration opportunities?"Copied!
- Post-Event Follow-up: "Hi [Name], great meeting you at [Event]. Your insights on [topic] sparked some ideas for my team. I'd love to continue our conversation - are you available for a coffee next week?"Copied!
Tip: Event networking often benefits from premium business card holders or portable phone chargers that keep connections flowing smoothly throughout long conference days.
Customer Success and Account Management InMails
Maintaining strong client relationships requires proactive communication that demonstrates your commitment to their success beyond the initial sale.
Customer success InMails should demonstrate proactive account management, reference specific client goals or challenges, and offer additional resources or support.
- Renewal Period Check-in: "Hi [Name], with your contract renewal approaching, I wanted to review the value we've delivered this year. We've achieved [specific outcomes] and I'd love to discuss expanding our partnership for even greater impact."Copied!
- Team Introduction: "Hi [Name], I'm excited to introduce [New Team Member] who will be supporting your account. They bring expertise in [relevant area] that will enhance our service to [Company]. Let's schedule a brief introduction call."Copied!
- Feedback Request: "Hi [Name], your success with [specific project] has been remarkable. Would you be willing to share your experience in a brief case study? It would help other companies facing similar challenges."Copied!
- Issue Resolution Follow-up: "Hi [Name], I wanted to personally follow up on the [issue] we resolved last week. Everything should be running smoothly now, but please don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything else."Copied!
Media and PR Outreach InMail Templates
Media professionals receive hundreds of pitches weekly, so your message needs to immediately demonstrate newsworthiness and relevance to their audience.
Media outreach InMails should lead with a compelling story angle, demonstrate familiarity with the recipient's recent work, and offer exclusive insights or data.
- Story Pitch: "Hi [Name], your recent article on [topic] was spot-on. I have exclusive data showing [interesting trend] that would make a compelling follow-up story. The findings challenge conventional wisdom about [area]. Interested?"Copied!
- Podcast Guest Pitch: "Hi [Name], I loved your recent episode on [topic]. I've been researching [related area] and have some contrarian insights that would spark great discussion. Would you be interested in having me as a guest?"Copied!
- Influencer Relationship: "Hi [Name], your content on [topic] consistently provides fresh perspectives. I'm working on [project] that aligns with your interests. Would you be open to an exclusive preview in exchange for your thoughts?"Copied!
- Coverage Follow-up: "Hi [Name], thank you for featuring our story on [topic]. The response has been incredible. I have some follow-up data that might interest you for a future piece. Would you like to see it?"Copied!
Vendor and Supplier Relationship InMails
Building strong vendor relationships requires clear communication about your business needs while maintaining professional boundaries around pricing and expectations.
Vendor relationship InMails should clearly state your business requirements, mention your decision timeline, and request specific information about capabilities and pricing.
- New Supplier Evaluation: "Hi [Name], we're evaluating suppliers for [specific need]. Your company's expertise in [area] looks promising. Could you provide information about your capabilities and pricing for [specific requirement]?"Copied!
- Vendor Negotiation: "Hi [Name], we've been pleased with [Company]'s service over the past [timeframe]. As we plan for next year, I'd like to discuss optimizing our partnership terms. Are you available for a call this week?"Copied!
- Solution Provider Outreach: "Hi [Name], we're facing challenges with [specific problem] and your solution looks like a potential fit. Could we schedule a demo to see how it addresses our specific requirements?"Copied!
- Post-Demo Follow-up: "Hi [Name], thank you for yesterday's demo. The [specific feature] capability is exactly what we need. I'd like to discuss next steps and pricing for our [specific use case]."Copied!
InMail Response and Follow-Up Templates
How you respond to incoming InMails and follow up on conversations can be just as important as your initial outreach efforts.
Follow-up InMails should reference specific points from previous conversations, provide requested information promptly, and suggest clear next steps to maintain momentum.
- Polite Decline: "Hi [Name], thank you for thinking of me for [opportunity]. While it's not the right fit currently, I appreciate the outreach and would love to stay connected for future possibilities."Copied!
- Meeting Scheduling: "Hi [Name], thank you for your interest in [topic]. I'm available [specific times] for a call. I'll send a calendar invite once you confirm your preference. Looking forward to our conversation."Copied!
- Cold Conversation Revival: "Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on our conversation about [topic] from [timeframe]. I just came across [relevant information] that might interest you. Are you still exploring [area]?"Copied!
- Thank You Follow-up: "Hi [Name], thank you for taking the time to speak with me about [topic]. Your insights on [specific point] were particularly valuable. I'll follow up with [promised action] by [specific date]."Copied!
Tip: Professional follow-up often benefits from digital productivity tools like calendar scheduling apps or project management software that streamline collaboration.
Crafting Your Own High-Converting InMail Messages
While templates provide excellent starting points, the most effective InMails combine proven structure with personalized research and genuine value propositions.
Successful InMail creation requires systematic research, compelling subject lines, clear message structure, and continuous testing to optimize response rates over time.
Start by researching your recipient thoroughly. Check their recent posts, company news, and mutual connections. This research should inform your opening line and value proposition. According to Salesforce research, personalized messages generate 6x higher transaction rates than generic approaches.
Your subject line determines whether your message gets opened. Use formulas like "Quick question about [specific topic]" or "[Mutual connection] suggested I reach out." Avoid generic phrases like "Opportunity" or "Partnership" that trigger spam filters.
Structure your message with three key elements: personalized opening, clear value proposition, and specific call to action. Keep the entire message under 200 words - busy professionals appreciate brevity.
Test different approaches systematically. Send variations to similar prospects and track response rates. Small changes in tone, length, or call-to-action can significantly impact results.
Common mistakes include being too salesy in the first message, failing to research the recipient, sending messages that are too long, and not following up appropriately. Avoid these pitfalls by focusing on building relationships rather than making immediate asks.
Remember that InMail success isn't just about templates - it's about understanding your audience, providing genuine value, and building authentic professional relationships that benefit both parties.
The best InMails feel like personal messages from someone who took time to understand your business and challenges. Use these templates as foundations, but always customize them with specific details about your recipient and situation.
Success comes from consistent effort, continuous improvement, and genuine interest in helping others achieve their goals. Start with the templates that match your immediate needs, then expand your approach as you gain confidence and experience.
Always comply with LinkedIn's messaging policies and respect recipients' preferences for communication frequency. Professional relationships are built on mutual respect and value exchange, not aggressive sales tactics.
How many InMails should I send per day?
LinkedIn allows 20-100 InMails monthly depending on your plan. Focus on quality over quantity - 5 well-researched messages outperform 20 generic ones.
What's the best time to send InMails?
Tuesday through Thursday, 8-10 AM in your recipient's timezone typically see highest response rates. Avoid Monday mornings and Friday afternoons.
How long should I wait before following up?
Wait 1-2 weeks for the first follow-up, then 2-3 weeks for subsequent messages. Stop after 3 attempts without response.
Should I connect before sending an InMail?
No, InMails are designed for messaging without connecting first. However, engaging with their content beforehand can increase familiarity and response rates.
How do I track InMail response rates?
Use LinkedIn's Sales Navigator analytics or create a simple spreadsheet tracking sent messages, responses, and outcomes to identify your most effective approaches.