The Intricacies of LinkedIn InMail: Starting Off Right

A recent email posed an intriguing question about using LinkedIn’s InMail to contact a Managing Director (MD) directly and bypass HR. The job seeker aimed to go beyond the traditional HR route, believing that a direct connection with the MD might offer a shortcut to job opportunities. While networking holds undeniable value, it’s essential to approach it with tact and understanding.

The Essence of Networking: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Firstly, effective networking isn’t about immediate gratification. It’s about cultivating genuine relationships that, over time, could lead to job offers or recommendations. Imagine someone saying, “Hi, I’m Joe. Nice to meet you. Could you do me a favour?” Most people would find such a direct approach off-putting, if not downright rude.

Moreover, ill-advised networking attempts can backfire spectacularly. We’ve all seen viral stories of job seekers receiving snarky or humiliating responses to their InMails. The bottom line is that nobody likes feeling used. Just because an MD has a LinkedIn profile doesn’t mean they’re open to unsolicited job enquiries from strangers.

What LinkedIn InMail Is Not: The Pitfalls to Avoid

Many fall into the trap of “knee-jerk networking,” impulsively reaching out to strangers for immediate favours. This is not LinkedIn InMail best practice, and it perpetuates the myth that “networking doesn’t work.” True networking resembles a wise investment, requiring time and care for it to grow.

A Real-World Example: Establishing Initial Contact the Right Way

For instance, sending a brief and friendly InMail to congratulate the MD on a company milestone is an excellent way to initiate contact:

“Hi Frank, noticed your team is expanding again—congratulations! Clearly, leadership is doing something right, and it’s inspiring to see a company flourish.”

This approach offers ‘Frank’ the option to respond or not. If he does, it creates an opening for future interaction and potential job opportunities—without any implied obligation on his part.

Leveraging Your Existing Network: The Smart Approach

While it’s inappropriate to directly request favours from strangers, utilising your existing network is entirely different. Do you know someone who has a strong relationship with the MD? Then it’s reasonable to ask that person for an introduction or even a recommendation for the job in question.

But remember, temper your expectations. Just because you’d like them to act doesn’t mean they will, and that’s okay. Reacting poorly can not only harm your existing relationship but can also result in wider reputational damage.

So, have you ever taken a bold networking step that paid off? Share your experiences or reach out for personalized job search advice—I’m here to help!