This article is part two of a Virtual Networking series. To read part one, check out Virtual Networking 101.
Cold (calling, emailing, or messaging) a total stranger is never easy and can feel quite awkward. Yet, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, this means of communication has now become one of the primary ways to meet new people. With this comes the need to up your networking game on one of the world’s leading professional networking platforms, LinkedIn. Not all outbound messages are created equal, however. There’s an art to craftinginMailsthat will increase your response rate. By following these tips, you should be networking in no time.
Subject Lines Matter
First, start your message with a short, catchy subject line. According to Beamery, 35% of people will only open a message if the subject line resonates with them. This means that you must do your homework. Keap suggests mentioning a mutual connection, shared interest, or achievement of theirs. Equally as important, however, is keeping it brief. Subject lines of three words or less increase your chances of getting a response by 14%, according to LinkedIn data.
Greet your connection
Include a personalized, tailored greeting, and elaborate on any mutual experiences you might have. For example, mention a common community involvement, former employer or event you have both attended to make your message feel less generic. Lines such as “Hey Claire – I really enjoyed your keynote speech at the Women in Leadership summit last week and your angle on diversity in the workplace.” show the reader how you know them and that you’ve done your research.
Don’t jump the gun on the opportunity
Imagine someone came up to you on the street and, unannounced, began reciting their pitch. Would you be focused on its content or would you be thinking, who is this guy? the whole time?
Proceed with your message by giving your name, position (be it as a student or an employee), and the general context of where you’re coming from. Then you should present them with the purpose of your note. If they want more details on your interests and experiences, they’ll follow up by asking or suggesting to schedule a call, so be brief and keep your message under 100 words.
End with closure
Providing a call-to-action improves response rates by giving people clear directions and removing uncertainty or ambiguity. If you’re asking to schedule a virtual coffee chat, give a time and place. Try something such as: “are you free for a zoom call next Monday at 5 pm to discuss your experience at ABC company in greater depth?” If they’re not available at that time, they’ll be sure to let you know and you’ll already have won half the battle by getting them to open and answer your InMail!
Follow up, follow up, follow up!
People. Are. Busy. Following up in LinkedIn culture is not equated with annoyance, but with persistence. Wait for an average of five days between follow up messages and send a maximum of two follow-ups. If you don’t receive a response at that point, select another contact on your master outreach spreadsheet and keep trying. Rejection doesn’t mean you aren’t good enough; it means the other person failed to recognize what you have to offer.
Now that you’re ready to get to work, remember the importance of nurturing your most meaningful relationships. A solid connection won’t come out of a single message, but out of intended and deliberate consideration. The more attention and care you give this connection, the more they’ll be willing to return the favor!
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