Should You Message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn?

Why It Matters

LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool, and messaging the hiring manager can be a great way to stand out from the competition. According to LinkedIn, InMail messages have a 20% response rate, compared to just 3% for email.

Benefits:

Get noticed: Messaging the hiring manager directly shows that you're interested in the position and willing to go the extra mile.

Build a relationship: Starting a conversation can help you build a rapport with the hiring manager and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Learn more about the company: Asking specific questions about the role or company culture can demonstrate your interest and knowledge.

Benefit	How to
Get noticed	Personalize your message and highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Build a relationship	Be polite, respectful, and professional. Ask questions that show you're interested in the company and the position.
Learn more about the company	Research the company and the role before sending your message. Ask specific questions about the company's culture and goals.

Effective Strategies

Keep it brief and to the point: Hiring managers are busy, so make sure your message is concise and easy to read.

Personalize your message: Address the hiring manager by name and reference the specific position you're applying for.

Quantify your accomplishments: Use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work experience.

Proofread your message: Make sure your message is free of errors and typos.

Tips and Tricks:

Use LinkedIn features: Use LinkedIn's messaging features to follow up on your message and stay in touch with the hiring manager.

Connect with the hiring manager: If you're not already connected with the hiring manager, send them a connection request first.

Be patient: It may take some time for the hiring manager to respond to your message. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear back right away.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

*Do not* mass message hiring managers: Sending generic messages to multiple hiring managers will not yield positive results.

*Do not* be overly aggressive: Your message should be professional and respectful. Avoid using aggressive or salesy language.

*Do not* ask for a job directly: Your message should focus on building a relationship and learning more about the position.

When Should I Message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn?

Stories:

Sarah: Sarah messaged the hiring manager for a marketing position she was interested in. She highlighted her relevant skills and experience, and asked specific questions about the company's culture. The hiring manager was impressed by her enthusiasm and offered her an interview.

John: John sent a generic message to a hiring manager for an engineering position. His message was not personalized and did not highlight his relevant experience. As a result, the hiring manager did not respond.

Key Benefits of Messaging the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn

Pros:

Increased response rate: InMail messages have a 20% response rate, compared to just 3% for email.

Opportunity to stand out: Messaging the hiring manager directly shows that you're interested in the position and willing to go the extra mile.

Build a relationship: Starting a conversation can help you build a rapport with the hiring manager and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Cons:

Time-consuming: Sending personalized messages to multiple hiring managers can be time-consuming.

May not always get a response: Hiring managers are busy and may not always have time to respond to messages.

May come across as unprofessional: If your message is not well-written or professional, it may reflect negatively on you.

Conclusion

Should I Message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn?

The answer is yes. If you're serious about getting a job, messaging the hiring manager on LinkedIn is a great way to stand out from the competition, build a relationship, and learn more about the company. Just be sure to follow the tips and tricks above to avoid making common mistakes.

FAQs About Should I Message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn?

Is it okay to message the hiring manager if I'm not qualified for the position?
- No, it's not a good idea to message the hiring manager if you're not qualified for the position. You may come across as desperate or unprofessional.

How often should I follow up with the hiring manager?
- It's best to wait a few weeks before following up with the hiring manager. Sending too many follow-up messages can be annoying.

What should I do if the hiring manager doesn't respond to my message?
- If the hiring manager doesn't respond to your message after a few weeks, you can try sending a follow-up message or connecting with them on other social media platforms.

Should You Message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn?