Guide
LinkedIn InMail: What It Is, Credits and When to Use It
An InMail on LinkedIn is a message you can send to someone you are not connected to. It uses credits from a paid plan, so it is worth writing carefully. This guide explains what it is, how credits work and how to write a message that gets a reply.
What an InMail on LinkedIn is
A normal LinkedIn message goes to a connection. InMail lets a member with a paid plan message someone outside their circle. The message arrives in the person's inbox, marked so they know it is an InMail.
How InMail credits work
Paid plans include a number of InMail credits a month, and the number depends on the plan. LinkedIn has said unused credits can carry over for a time, and that a credit comes back if the person replies within a set number of days. Check the current terms on LinkedIn's plan page.
When an InMail is free
Some members turn on an open profile setting that lets anyone with a paid plan message them without using a credit. Check for it on the person's profile before you spend one.
Write an InMail that gets a reply
Keep the subject short and specific, name the reason you are writing in the first line and ask one clear question. Mention something real from their profile. Avoid long pitches and attachments.
Questions
What is InMail on LinkedIn?
A message to someone you are not connected to, sent with credits from a paid plan.
Is an InMail better than a connection note?
A short connection note is free and often enough. InMail is for when you need to reach someone you cannot connect to yet.
Can I schedule InMails?
Dripost schedules posts, not private messages.
Do unused InMail credits expire?
Not straight away, according to LinkedIn, but the rules depend on your plan. Look them up on LinkedIn's plan page before you count on old credits.
How long should an InMail be?
Short: a specific subject, the reason you are writing in the first line and one clear question. Leave out long pitches and attachments.
Post it with Dripost
- LinkedIn post previewSee where LinkedIn cuts your post behind “see more” before you post it.
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- LinkedIn from Claude or ChatGPTLet your AI assistant draft and schedule LinkedIn posts. You approve before anything goes out.