Messaging decoded

Ok so it is time we chat about LinkedIn messages. LinkedIn Messaging is an amazing tool, but is it really? Do you send out cold emails but never get a response? Are people ghosting you? Do you keep following up with recruiters, HR professionals or Hiring Managers for that position and never hear back? Ever wondered why?

So, picture this: You spot an amazing job, and your excitement is through the roof. Before you hit send on that "push my resume" or "Here's my CV. please invite me to an interview" message, wait! Slow down! Building connections is like the beginning of a new friendship - start with a graceful introduction. Share a bit about yourself, your skills, and why you admire their work. Jumping directly into what you need from them is a little off-putting to a lot of recipients. Trust me, charm opens doors.

Also, let's talk about the waiting game. Ever messaged someone and heard crickets? Ever messaged someone with a resume indicating your interest and been "ghosted". I'm sure it doesn't feel great. But picture this: on an average, an HR person or a Senior Manager will get about 10-15 messages a day. Mostly just "Check my profile" or "Please get me interviewed". Let's stack these up - that is about 100 messages in a week - give or take a few. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Not everyone has the time or reach to meet with or get interviews done for strangers. Everyone wants to help but not everyone has the bandwidth to do so. So instead of haunting their inbox, try a more patient approach. Engage with their posts, leave comments, and let the connection bloom naturally. Remember: It's a marathon, not a sprint. Also, before you ask someone to recommend you for a job or get you an interview, make sure to do the following:

1. Introduce yourself. If it is a complete stranger and they don't know you, help them understand where you are coming from.
2. Explain why you would be a great fit. Why should they recommend a complete unknown person for a role? Show that you have done your research. Relate your experience to the role you are interested in.
3. Assume positive intent. My general rule of thumb is if the person you are reaching out to doesn't respond after two messages, it is time to let it go. Assume they haven't seen it, are not the relevant person to be reaching out to, or do not have an answer to your query. Trust in the innate goodness of people: everyone helps out where they can.

Lastly, the one-phrase wonders: "Hi" "Hello." "How are you?" "Please check my profile". It's short and sweet, but a bit bland. Add a personal touch. Share why you're reaching out, show genuine interest, and let the conversation flow. Remember, a little effort goes a long way. On LinkedIn, and in life.

The world of LinkedIn is like a fancy party. Be charming, engage, and stand out in the crowd! Do you have more tips on using LinkedIn Messaging effectively? Drop it in the comments below so we all learn and grow together. Let's lift each other up!