How to Send Good Video DMs on LinkedIn

Sending video DMs to strangers on LinkedIn feels awkward. Some people find these polarizing and strongly prefer to just read text. When it works, it works really well.

But with the proliferation of AI, buyers can spot automation instantly, and most LinkedIn DMs blur together.

A good video DM cuts through because it proves two things immediately:

• You are talking to a real person
• You put in effort most people will not

The problem is that most video DMs are still done wrong.

When Video Dms Actually Make Sense

Video is not a volume play. It only works when it is used intentionally.

Video DMs work best when:

• You are targeting a small list of high-value accounts
• You have a clear reason for reaching out right now
• You want to build trust before asking for time

They work poorly when:

• You are blasting strangers with no context
• You are trying to replace all outbound with video
• You do not have anything specific to say

If you do not have a reason, video will not save you.

The Formula for a Good LinkedIn Video DM

The goal of a video DM is not to pitch. It is to make replying feel easy.

A simple structure that works:

1. Start with a real anchor

Show them this is not random.

Good anchors include:

• A post they recently shared
• A hiring push or product launch
• A specific initiative their team is running

Avoid generic openers like “came across your profile.”

2. Share One Clear Observation

Say what you think is happening.

Examples:

• “Looks like your team is scaling outbound, but LinkedIn is getting crowded.”
• “Seems like you are investing in demand gen, but sales is still doing heavy lift early.”

This is not a pitch. It is a signal that you understand their world.

3. Offer Value

End with something easy to say yes or no to.

Examples:

• “Happy to share two examples if helpful.”
• “Can send over a quick teardown if you want.”

Do not ask for a meeting in the video.

LinkedIn Video DM Best Practices

1. Always Add a Text Preview

Always add a short line so they know what exactly they are opening:

• “Quick 30-sec video re your outbound motion”
• “Short video on something I noticed”

This alone dramatically improves open rates.

2. Keep the Video Under 1 Minute

Long video DMs feel like work.

Aim for:

• 20 to 40 seconds
• One idea
• One reason for reaching out

3. Keep Your Mistakes in the Video

Do not overthink production.

A slightly imperfect, clearly personal video builds more trust than:

• Scripted delivery
• AI-generated videos
• Reused recordings with name swaps

Just make sure you're getting the intended message acoss.