How To Sell In LinkedIn DMs Without Looking Like Spam

"Every connection in your LinkedIn network represents a potential client, partner, or opportunity. Yet most people burn these relationships with generic copy-paste messages that scream desperation. There's a world of difference between spammy-sounding messages and successful outreach, and it doesn't involve fancy scripts or perfect timing. Just treat people like humans, keep it real, and ask the exact right questions."

"Since January 2024 I increased my LinkedIn following from 7k to 43k with consistent action and genuine engagement. My AI for Coaches LinkedIn newsletter hit 8,000 subscribers in under three months without a single pushy DM. I focused on building relationships first, business second. Approach LinkedIn DMs with service instead of selfishness, so sales become a natural byproduct of connection."

"Open every conversation with something specific about the person. Reference their recent post about scaling their startup. Mention the article they shared on leadership challenges. Comment on their impressive career transition. When you nail this, your message stands out immediately. Your prospect sees you've taken time to understand them. The conversation starts from shared ground instead of a cold request or generic greeting. People respond to being seen, not sold to."

Every LinkedIn connection represents a potential client, partner, or opportunity. Generic copy-paste messages damage relationships and reduce response rates. Personalized outreach begins with specific context about the recipient, such as referencing posts, articles, or career changes. Initial messages should be one or two brief lines that read like a natural conversation, not a sales pitch. Focus on service and relationship-building before business, using empathy and targeted questions. Approaching DMs with authenticity and short, contextualized openers increases engagement and makes sales a natural byproduct of connection. Conference-style, human-first interactions outperform long, pushy pitches.

Read at Forbes