The Response Rate Science

• The Data: After analyzing 3,500+ DMs, messages under 50 words got 2.7x more responses
• The Research: LinkedIn's own data shows attention spans on the platform average 3.25 seconds
• The Goal: Capture attention and get a response in under 5 seconds of reading time

The 3-Part Message Structure

1. Personal Hook (10-15 words)

• Reference something specific from their profile or content
• Show you've done minimal research
• Make it impossible to mistake for a mass message

2. Value Statement (20-25 words)

• Present ONE clear value proposition
• Focus on their potential gain, not your offering
• Make it specific to their role/industry

3. Low-Friction Ask (10-15 words)

• Ask a simple question requiring minimal effort to answer
• Avoid calendar links in first message
• Make it easy to say "yes" to continuing the conversation

Real-World Example (47 words total)

Hi [Name], noticed you're scaling [Company]'s sales team based on your recent post.

We've helped similar [Industry] companies reduce ramp time by 41% with our specialized onboarding system.

Would this be valuable for your new hires coming in Q2?

Why This Works