InMails vs. Invites on LinkedIn: Which strategy fits your recruitment process?

LinkedIn offers recruiters and sourcers powerful tools to reach potential candidates, including InMails and Invites. But which approach works best? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both methods so you can make an informed decision.

What Are InMails and Invites?

• InMails: Messages you can send directly to any LinkedIn user—even if you’re not connected. Available through a premium LinkedIn subscription.
• Invites: Connection requests that typically include a short, personal message intended to initiate a networking relationship.

InMails

Advantages

• Reach: InMails allow access to users outside your direct network—ideal for targeted searches.
• Flexibility: No need for a prior connection; you can reach out to candidates directly.
• Professional tone: InMails often feel more formal, underscoring the professionalism of your outreach.
• Analytics: InMails offer insights into open and response rates, providing valuable feedback on effectiveness.

Disadvantages

• Cost: InMails require a premium subscription, which may not fit all budgets.
• Limited credits: The number of InMails you can send is restricted and needs careful planning.
• Lower personalization: Some candidates may view InMails as less personal and may be less likely to respond.

Invites

Advantages

• Free to use: Invites are available at no cost to all LinkedIn users.
• Network building: Every accepted invite grows your professional network.
• Personal approach: A well-crafted personal message with your invite can lead to higher response rates.

Disadvantages

• Weekly limits: LinkedIn imposes limits on the number of invites you can send each week.
• Risk of rejection: Too many invites or impersonal messages can lead to rejections—or even a temporary ban.
• No direct follow-up: Until the invite is accepted, you can't message the recipient further.

Which Strategy Fits Your Goals?

• For direct outreach: Choose InMails if you want to make immediate, targeted contact—especially with hard-to-reach candidates.
• For network growth: Use Invites to build long-term relationships and organically expand your candidate pool.

Practical Tips

• Optimize your message: Use AI tools (like SourceGeek) to generate personalized, relevant messages.
• Track your results: Monitor open and acceptance rates to refine your outreach strategy.
• Combine both methods: Consider a hybrid approach—strategically use InMails and Invites based on the candidate and context.

Conclusion

Both InMails and Invites offer unique advantages that can be valuable at different stages of your recruitment process. By weighing cost, goals, and response rates, you can build a strategy that’s not only effective but also aligned with your specific hiring needs.

Want to learn how to get the most out of LinkedIn for recruitment?
Get in touch with our experts at SourceGeek!