Consultants, do you prefer networking emails or LinkedIn Inmails?

Question

Would you prefer receiving networking email/LinkedIn? School taught us to reach out via email, but I was thinking that email might be disturbing, any thoughts?

(I can find alumni's preferred email from the business school directory)

Answer 1

Hey there,

Definitely LinkedIn.

If I have never met someone and they reach out directly to my work email (which they could have easily guessed for McKinsey) without being referenced by someone else, it would be strange.

LinkedIn is a level-playing field, where I can also see your profile, background, etc.

Also, the firm actively discourages answering emails of strangers due to phishing and other risks.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 2

Hey there,

BCG Project Leader here.

I would not advise sending networking emails, LinkedIn inmails work best as it doesnt came as strong and gives me the chance to decide if I want to invest my time or not (I can go to your Linkedin and quickly assess your CV, etc.)

I usually receive a few messages on linkedin every week/month and never saw a problem with that.

Hope it helps!

Answer 3

Hi there,

I much prefer LinkedIn. Email feels “sketchy” and “too much”. A short and sweet, tailored, genuine message via LinkedIn works best.

How you reach out (wording) really matters here!

Answer 4

Hi there,

Both are valid depending on context. Here’s my take on this:

Linkedin: Use for making 1st contact with people you don’t actually know. Less invasive and gives them a chance to quickly see who they’re dealing with.
Email: Use if you know the person or are introduced to them via a common connection. Consultants generally use email A LOT but don‘t like messages from strangers.

Hope this helps! Best of luck!

Answer 5

LinkedIn Inmails should be a better option unless a consultant has given you his or her email id or you have a reference.

Thanks

Answer 6

emails with reference or that have been agreed to >> Linkedin Inmail >> emails without reference