Let’s be honest: the average LinkedIn inbox feels less like a networking goldmine and more like a junk drawer — cluttered, chaotic, and full of forgotten messages from people who thought “circle back” was a personality trait.
But hey, it doesn’t have to be this way. Today, I want to discuss making your LinkedIn inbox a place where genuine conversations blossom instead of becoming a professional spam zone.
First Impressions: The Dating App Energy
Ever matched with someone on a dating app and faced the age-old question: “What do I say first?” It’s a high-stakes game. Be boring, and you’re ghosted. Come on too strong, and they block you faster than you can say “Heyyyy 😉.”
LinkedIn messaging is the same. A good opener sets the tone. Something thoughtful, maybe even a little witty (please, no “I see we both like success” cringe). Be human. The goal? Make them actually want to reply.
The Waiting Game: Anticipation or Anxiety?
Once you’ve sent that killer message, the anticipation begins. Your phone lights up—could it be them? Nope, it’s just your group chat debating if pineapple belongs on pizza. (It does. I don’t make the rules.)
LinkedIn conversations should spark that kind of excitement—genuine curiosity, not the dread of “Ugh, what is this pitch about now?”
When You’re Ghosted (Or Greenlit)
So they reply! You’re in the honeymoon stage—messages are flowing, and the conversation actually feels enjoyable. But just like dating, things can go south real quick if you’re too generic or pushy. Don’t be the person sending “Just following up” every 12 hours. LinkedIn messaging is not hostage negotiation.
What’s the Real Problem?
Here’s the harsh truth: LinkedIn’s inbox is fundamentally broken. It’s the junk drawer of social media platforms—cluttered, neglected, and filled with things you forgot you ever put there.
It’s like getting stuck at a party with that loud guy who won’t stop talking about himself. You try to excuse yourself politely, but then his even louder friends show up. Suddenly, your chance to have a real conversation is gone.
LinkedIn Is for Relationships, Not Transactions
This is where people get it wrong: LinkedIn isn’t a platform to sell. It’s a place to start relationships. Sales happen on calls, in meetings, through thoughtful proposals—not in the DMs where you’re speed-running through messages like it’s some twisted inbox Olympics.
How to Make Your Inbox Work for You
Here are a few ideas to keep things human, organized, and productive:
- Be Intentional: Don’t just blast out messages. Think about why you’re reaching out and personalize your approach.
- Segment Your Inbox: Use tags or reminders to organize conversations. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
- Schedule Follow-Ups: But make it natural. No one likes a robot-like “Just circling back” message.
- Add Value First: Share an insightful article or tip relevant to their industry. This will make you memorable.
The Takeaway
The LinkedIn inbox doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess. It can be a space where meaningful connections begin—kind of like those first exciting texts after swapping numbers at a party (minus the hangover).
Be thoughtful. Be human. And please, for the love of all things digital, stop treating it like a cold-calling list. You’ll be amazed at what happens when people actually want to respond.
