When reaching out to others on LinkedIn, users often wonder whether to use InMail or send a Connection Request. Although both serve as methods to connect, they each have unique purposes and fit different outreach goals. While LinkedIn InMail is a direct messaging tool available only for Premium users, Connection Requests are free and allow you to add people directly to your network. Deciding when to use each can impact how effective your outreach is on LinkedIn.
As a LinkedIn automation expert, Growth-X will dive into the key differences between LinkedIn InMail vs Connection Requests, helping you understand when to use each for the best results.
InMail is a messaging feature available to LinkedIn Premium users that allows you to reach out to people you’re not directly connected with. Think of it as LinkedIn’s exclusive way for users to message potential leads or professional contacts without waiting for a Connection Request to be accepted. InMail is particularly helpful when you need to reach someone who may not know you but could be valuable to your network or business.
InMail is best for reaching out to specific, high-value leads, particularly in B2B contexts. For instance, if you’re aiming to contact someone in a senior role at a company you wish to collaborate with, an InMail message can help you get in touch without needing a mutual connection. InMail’s exclusivity can also make your message stand out, as it’s not as common as Connection Requests.
To make InMail work effectively, LinkedIn users should also be aware of how strategic InMail usage can enhance their Social Selling Index (SSI) score, a key factor in LinkedIn’s social selling metrics. Keeping an eye on your LinkedIn SSI score can provide insight into how well you’re connecting with the right audience on LinkedIn and enhancing your professional brand. 
Although both serve as methods to connect, they each have unique purposes and fit different outreach goals.
Knowing the main differences between LinkedIn InMail and Connection Requests helps you decide when to use each effectively. Here’s a closer look at some key distinctions:
InMail is exclusive to LinkedIn Premium accounts, which makes it an ideal choice for reaching out to individuals you don’t share a connection with. In contrast, Connection Requests are available to everyone, allowing free LinkedIn members to expand their networks without needing a paid plan.
For B2B professionals, the choice between InMail and Connection Requests can significantly impact outreach results. InMail can be particularly useful when approaching senior decision-makers, as these messages tend to appear more formal and direct. However, Connection Requests often work well for those seeking to build a network organically or establish relationships with industry peers.
Using InMail wisely is crucial, especially in fields that involve LinkedIn automation. Note that automation tools should be used cautiously to avoid crossing LinkedIn’s usage policies. For safe practices, refer to this automation warning on LinkedIn to understand how automation can complement organic networking efforts.
InMail has the advantage of delivering your message to recipients who are more likely to engage since they know it’s sent by a Premium user. However, personalized Connection Requests can yield high response rates as well, especially when they contain a thoughtful message that resonates with the recipient’s interests. Generally, Connection Requests can feel more personal, especially when they’re customized.
For B2B professionals, the choice between InMail and Connection Requests can significantly impact outreach results.
As Head of Customer Success, Lusine specializes in helping businesses achieve measurable growth by transforming underperforming campaigns into success stories. Lusine writes impactful articles that reflect her deep expertise in social media strategy and digital marketing, offering insights that drive engagement and deliver results. Combining data-driven analysis with a focus on client success, she makes sure every strategy aligns with business goals and exceeds expectations
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