How To Generate Leads with LinkedIn Messaging

Business Owners and Entrepreneurs, have you been on the receiving end on LinkedIn Messaging (LM) from new connections who send you emails every few days until you feel compelled to respond? Welcome to the somewhat tried and tested way of lead generation with LinkedIn Messaging. You may have a couple of lingering questions:

1. Does LM really work? and 2. Isn't this spam?

I would address both these questions and then share how you can also try this form of messaging to generate leads.

Does LinkedIn Messaging work?

The short answer is Yes. The fact that you login in to see your messages means it does work. Of course, for those connections who don't login frequently, or only login once every few months, it wouldn't work. Bottomline: LinkedIn Messaging works for your more active connections.

How do you find your active connections? Go to the Full Profile view of your connection, and check under Activity whether they shared a recent post, or interacted on someone else's post with a comment. You can also go under My Network and then review your connections who are actively hiring.

Isn't this spam?

LinkedIn has checks and balances in place to ensure that you are not sending repeat messages to your connections and spamming them again and again. Also, LinkedIn does not allow automation in messaging (there are several third party tools available that promise messaging automation. however, "LinkedIn's terms of service strictly prohibit the use of automation for messaging purposes, and violating these rules can result in account penalties.")

To ensure that your messages don't get hit with spam and your account doesn't get suspended, make sure you personalize the messages to your connections, and only send messages to 10 to 20 prospects each day.

What type of LinkedIn Messages result in warm leads?

There isn't one surefire way to generate new leads with messages. However, here is a suggested messaging script of four messages that will definitely get your new connections to respond:

First Message: Connection Request

Objective: Introduce yourself and establish a connection.

Example:

Hi [Prospect's Name],

I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience in [Prospect's Industry/Role]. I believe we share mutual interests and goals in [relevant field or industry]. I'd love to connect and explore potential opportunities to collaborate or exchange insights.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Position]

[Your Company]

Second Message: Introduction and Value Offer

Objective: Introduce your business and offer value without being too salesy.

Example:

Hi [Prospect's Name],

Thank you for connecting! As a [Your Position] at [Your Company], I specialize in helping businesses like yours achieve [specific benefit or goal, e.g., improved operational efficiency, enhanced marketing strategies].

I recently came across an interesting [article/report/insight] on [relevant topic] that I thought you might find valuable: [link to the resource].

I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. Looking forward to your feedback!

Best regards, [Your Name]

Third Message: Engage with a Problem-Solution Approach

Objective: Identify a common problem and present a potential solution, leading to a meeting.

Example:

Hi [Prospect's Name],

I hope you're doing well! In my recent conversations with other [Prospect's Industry] professionals, I've noticed that many are facing challenges with [specific problem, e.g., managing remote teams, optimizing marketing ROI].

At [Your Company], we've developed a [solution/service] that has helped our clients achieve [specific result/benefit].

Would you be open to a quick call next week to discuss how we might be able to assist you as well? Looking forward to your response!

Best regards, [Your Name]

Fourth Message: Follow-Up and Call to Action

Objective: Follow up and create a sense of urgency to encourage scheduling a meeting or demo.

Example:

Hi [Prospect's Name],

I wanted to follow up on my previous message. I understand that you're busy, but I believe our [solution/service] could provide significant value to your business, particularly in addressing [specific problem].

Would you have some time this week or next for a brief chat? I'd love to learn more about your current challenges and explore how we can help.

Here's my calendar link to schedule a time that works best for you: [calendar link].

Thank you, and I look forward to speaking with you!

Best regards, [Your Name]

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Remember, each prospective connection is different. Some prospects may respond after your first message. Some may wait to respond until after your fourth message. Some may not respond at all. Your role is only to educate and provide insights that help your connection. Ultimately, if you are providing valuable information to your connections, showing a deep understanding of their business and industry, and not being too pushy or salesy, your connections will respond. Just be patient. Also, it's a great idea to include your calendar link in your signature.

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