A direct, informative subject line helps capture the attention of the recipient.

In the body of the InMail, avoid lengthy job descriptions. Instead, mention common connections or clients who have offered strong recommendations.

Design your InMail as a conversation starter.

• The goal is to discuss and explore an opportunity, not seal the deal immediately.
• Mention the profile content that prompted you to write and tailor your message around that content.

Adopt a conversational, enthusiastic tone.

• Choose words that reflect your personal voice.
• Express interest in helping them in their goals rather than your need to fill the position.

Be brief and to the point. If you share too much, they may not feel the need to reply.

Focus on finding out their availability and interest in a job or networking opportunity.

• You've read their profile, so you already know they are qualified.
• A new networking opportunity today could lead to multiple candidates in the future.

Do not cut and paste the job description or URL to the job post.

• LinkedIn is a networking site, not a job board and passive candidates won't respond well to look at the job and tell me if you're interested messages.
• Start a dialog about their career path and goals.

Give them a reason to reply by asking them for advice, opinions, referrals.

Leverage the candidate’s slide-in profile to easily reference relevant experience. 

Use LinkedIn Scheduler to provide your calendar availability so the candidate can easily schedule the interview.