How to set up Linkedin Autoresponders, Automatic Replies, and Away Messages

Linkedin now lets Premium users set an Away Message. This is also referred to as a Linkedin autoresponder or automatic message. Away Meessages are designed for you to automatically notify people that you’re currently unavailable when they send you a message. And, there are a number of ways you can use Away Messages to your advantage for networking, sales, and marketing. 

First, let me show you how to set up an autoresponder (for Premium members and above).

How to set up Linkedin Autoresponders (away messages feature)

Step 1 – Select ‘Update away message’

Step 2 – Choose start/end date and create your Linkedin away message (autoresponder).

The default autoresponder message is ‘I’m currently away. I’ll respond to your message when I return.’

Step 3 – Update your away message, dates, and turn on/off

What happens when Away Message is enabled?

When ‘Away Message’ (Linkedin autoresponder or automatic reply) is enabled, every person who messages you will receive the same automatic message. Linkedin also tells the recipient that your message was an ‘automatic reply.’

The automatic reply is only sent once throughout the duration of your ‘time away.’ So if someone sends you multiple times or you reply, they will not continually be sent your away message.

Also, automatic replies are not triggered in Group Messages OR threads originating in your Sales Navigator inbox.

Different ways to use Linkedin way messages

Away messages are intended to let people know you’re currently unavailable. But, there are more ways you can use Linkedin autoresponders than to tell people you’re on vacation. Here are a few.

1. Let people know you’ll follow up soon

Don’t check your messages very often? Let people who message you know you’re currently busy and will reply as soon as you can.

‘Won’t be on Linkedin much this week due to an event we’re hosting – will reply shortly when done thanks for your patience!’

‘Traveling right now – will reply as soon as I can.’

‘Heads up I don’t check my messages very often – will reply as soon as I get this.’

2. Calendar link

Remember – Linkedin automatic messages are sent to every person who messages you regardless of your previous dialogue or their intentions. You can add your calendar to your Linkedin away message. Just be careful because every person who messages you will be able to book a time – including solicitors.

‘Playing catch up this week and won’t be on Linkedin much – here’s my calendar to grab a time if you need me https://calendly.com/example’

3. Dynamic form link

Similar to a calendar link but more diverse. Include a link to a dynamic form that lets recipients choose why they’re contacting you and give them an appropriate calendar, call to action, or information.  (sales, hiring, product question, etc).

‘Won’t be on Linkedin this week – best way to contact me is to go here https://zeeko.io/qualifier/’

4. Landing page with an email opt-in

Give people an opportunity to opt into an email funnel by adding a landing page link to your away message. Use the autoresponder message to tell people why you’re unavailable and give them a CTA to see why in the meantime.

‘Super swamped here for the next 2 days – should be able to reply then. We’re busy adding a bunch of new daily videos. You can check it out here if you want a preview. https://zeeko.io/dailyvideos Talk soon.’