Learn what hiring & work looks like today in our new survey report on AI @ Work: Download the report now

LinkedIn InMail template for recruiters: Sourcing for a specific position

LinkedIn InMail is a valuable tool for recruiters with a premium account, allowing them to proactively reach out to potential candidates. InMails, similar to emails, consist of a subject line and body text. They should be brief, easy to read, specific, and personalized.

Christina Pavlou
Christina Pavlou

An experienced recruiter and HR professional who has transferred her expertise to insightful content to support others in HR.

LinkedIn sourcing candidates template

LinkedIn is great for advertising open roles or sharing them with your network. As a recruiter, you can also proactively reach out to professionals who could be strong candidates, even if you’re not connected. This is possible via InMails, provided that you have a premium account.

InMail messages, like emails, have two parts: the subject line (up to 200 characters) and the body text (up to 2,000 characters). Choose a subject line that makes it clear why you’re sending this InMail. It’s best if your message is:

  • Brief: Big chunks of text are usually off-putting and it’s more likely for readers to bounce.
  • Easy to read: Many people check social media on their phones, so use a visually appealing structure with short paragraphs and bullets when appropriate so that your message looks nice on small screens.
  • Specific: Be clear about why you reached out. Mention your company and the role you’re hiring for.
  • Personalized: You don’t have to include every detail you found about a potential candidate’s professional background, but adding one or two things that are relevant to the position will pique their interest.

Here’s an example of an InMail you can send to passive candidates when hiring for a position that matches their profile:

Subject line: Interested in joining our team at [Company_name]? / [Company_name] is looking for a [job_title]

InMail Body

Hi [Candidate_name],

I am [your name] and I’m a [your job title] at [Company_name]. I came across your profile as we’re currently looking for a [job_title] with [mention specific knowledge or skills, like “an expertise in Google Adwords and PPC campaigns”] and I think you could be a good fit.

I’d like to tell you a little more about this position and learn a few things about you as well. Are you available [include date and time or timeframe]? If so, I’d be happy to set up a call. I’m also happy to coordinate or answer any questions you may have via LinkedIn, if you prefer.

I hope you have a great day,

[Your name]

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

Frequently asked questions

Having trouble finding the right candidates?

Use AI Recruiter technology to find top talent, and easily post to more than 200 job sites with one click.

Find your stars

Let's grow together

Explore our full platform with a 15-day free trial.
Post jobs, get candidates and onboard employees all in one place.

Start a free trial