Utilising Voice & Video on LinkedIn

With LinkedIn developing at such a fast rate, new features are being added and updated frequently, so much so that some of these features remain unnoticed and under-utilised by many.

In this month’s newsletter, we wanted to take a closer look at two of said features that, when used in conjunction with a stellar lead generation strategy, can help fly your LinkedIn marketing efforts to new heights.?

Before we start, we’d like to note that both of these features are only available when using LinkedIn’s mobile app but can be received and viewed by desktop users.

LinkedIn Voice Messages

First impressions count, especially on LinkedIn. And when you're competing against an army of AI bots and keyboard warriors, every little helps when it comes to standing out from the crowd in your prospects' inboxes.

Initially introduced in July 2018, LinkedIn voice messages are a great way to humanise your conversations on LinkedIn - and with so many people still reluctant to spend 60 seconds recording a short note to introduce their business, they can have a massive impact on your response rates!

Unlike text-based messages, you don't have the ability to simply copy and paste the message to multiple connections in a matter of minutes; they take a little time and effort on your part but if you're willing to give it a go, we promise the rewards will be worth it!

Sending a Voice Message

1. Tap the messaging icon in the top right hand corner of the LinkedIn mobile app
2. Search for & select the user you want to message
3. Press the record button in right hand corner of the screen - if you haven't already, you will now be prompted to give LinkedIn microphone access
4. Hold down the blue microphone icon to record your message - make sure you don't remove your finger until your message is complete!
5. Stop holding the icon to finish recording
6. Press 'Send' or 'Cancel'

Recording the Perfect Voice Message

When sending a voice message to a potential prospect, we like to structure it the way we would with any sales message on LinkedIn:

First: Start with a personal introduction, thanking them for connecting and referencing some of their recent content or achievements.

Next: Quickly but convincingly explain your reason for reaching out. This will typically include a quick introduction to your business and the features and benefits for them.

Finally: All good sales messages end with a clear call to action. We recommend inviting them to respond by proposing a call in the near future. Alternatively, if you're currently running an offer that might be of interest to their specific business (e.g. free social media audit), you can offer this - everyone loves something for nothing, after all!

Just keep in mind that individual voice notes are limited to 60 seconds, so it's important to keep your message as brief and to the point as possible.

LinkedIn Video Messages

If you really want to stand out among the sea of automated messages on LinkedIn, a well-crafted video message is sure to get results!

Unlike voice messages, these are not limited to 60 seconds, giving you even more time to capture your personality, passion and expertise.

Sending a Video Message

1. Tap the messaging icon in the top right hand corner of the LinkedIn mobile app
2. Search for & select the user you want to message
3. Press the + icon in the left hand corner of the screen then press Video - if you haven't already, you will now be prompted to give LinkedIn camera and microphone access
4. Press the record button to start filming your video & press again to stop filming when your video is complete
5. Review your video and press 'Next' to send

Recording the Perfect Video Message

The main benefit of video messaging on LinkedIn is how personable it allows you to be, so it's important to personalise each video as much as possible. Our earlier guide on Recording the Perfect Voice Message includes some valuable tips that can be cross-referenced here.

While you want your video message to appear natural and unscripted, we would highly recommend noting down some brief bullet points of key points you would like to cover to ensure that everything is included. Unlike with voice messages, you have the ability to view your video before sending, so if there's anything you're not happy with, you can delete and start again.

Finally, unless you're a video specialist already, no one expects your video to be flawless, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you come across as professional and reliable.

We recommend ensuring that:

• You’re dressed appropriately
• Your background is professional and uncluttered
• You’re recording in a well-lit space

To Finish

Let's face it, we can all be a bit camera shy at times and the thought of hearing our own voice on a recording, no thanks!

But if you're serious about using LinkedIn to scale your business, putting aside your insecurities and hitting record is a simple yet effective way to generate results.

We recommend starting small - why not pick three of your most recent connections and send them a short voice message thanking them for connecting, introducing your business and explaining why you reached out?

But remember - whatever you do, don't be salesy!