If you are trying to generate leads in geographies like the US and Western Europe while based in India, you’ve no doubt faced many challenges. It might seem like an uphill battle, and it often is. Having conducted over 100 such campaigns, we at Sales Design share some key insights that can help make things a little easier.
Insight 1: Lead Generation on LinkedIn in the US Needs Patience & Consistency
First and foremost, lead generation on LinkedIn in the US requires both patience and consistency. You can’t expect immediate results. In most cases, you’ll start seeing meaningful results in about three months, post multiple rounds of experimentation. This is crucial for CEOs, COOs, Founders, and Heads of Sales who might be used to more immediate returns on investment. The key here is to build a robust strategy and stick with it, tracking analytics and iterating to improve outcomes.
Insight 2: The Profile You Use for Outreach is Key
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not optimizing their LinkedIn profile for lead generation. The ideal profile for successful outreach in the US is a senior person based in the country. Ideally, this person has studied or worked in the US before and has at least 500 relevant connections in the US. Before you start any outreach, ensure you add all known contacts to your network, including past colleagues, clients, and acquaintances. This establishes your credibility and makes your profile appear more trustworthy.
Insight 3: Optimizing Connection Rates Should Be Your First Priority
Initially, your main focus should be on optimizing connection rates. Even though the initial profiles you connect with might be less than ideal, aim for 2nd-degree connections and shared group members. These connections serve as a foot in the door, making it easier to expand your network further. By focusing on expanding your connections strategically, you lay a strong foundation for more targeted and effective lead generation efforts.
Insight 4: Publish Geography-Specific Content Actively
Publishing content that resonates with your target geography can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a conference you’ve attended, an online webinar, or a project go-live at a US client, sharing these experiences helps build credibility. Even something related to the India office of a US client can contribute positively. Geography-specific content shows that you are actively engaged and knowledgeable about the market, making potential leads more likely to trust and engage with you.
Insight 5: Be Cautious of Time Zones
Lead generation on LinkedIn is heavily influenced by timing. Acceptance and response rates vary significantly by time zones. It’s best to reach out around working hours—both a few hours before and after work can yield great results. Make sure you have considered this in your outreach plan to maximize the effectiveness of your efforts. Understanding and respecting the time zones of your target audience can dramatically improve your engagement rates.
Insight 6: Give More Options for People to Connect
In the US, buyers are often hesitant to share their phone numbers. Therefore, it’s better to prioritize scheduled meetings in your outreach. Ask if they have a calendar link where you can pick a slot, or provide your own calendar link. This makes it easier for them to connect with you without sharing their personal phone numbers, thus removing a significant barrier to engagement.
Insight 7: Leverage Email with Your LinkedIn Outreach
Emails can be a powerful tool when used in conjunction with LinkedIn outreach. Reference your LinkedIn conversation in your emails to create a seamless narrative. For instance, after connecting with someone on LinkedIn, send a follow-up email that references your LinkedIn message. This reinforces your outreach efforts and increases the chances of a response.
Insight 8: InMails are a Crucial Part of US Outreach
InMails offer a direct line to your potential leads and can be incredibly effective when used wisely. Craft a direct and engaging message that is concise and to the point. Personalize your InMails to resonate with the recipient’s interests and pain points. With a well-crafted InMail, you can significantly improve your outreach success rate.
Conclusion: LinkedIn is a Great Tool for US Outreach
LinkedIn is an invaluable tool for generating leads in the US, but it requires a well-thought-out strategy and consistent effort. If you’re committed to building this channel, we have a ton of literature on how to leverage LinkedIn effectively. For those short on time, we also offer services to generate leads using your LinkedIn profile.
By integrating these insights into your lead generation strategy, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of reaching out to US-based prospects from India. For more information and personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us.
So, are you ready to take your LinkedIn lead generation to the next level? Let’s get started!
Ready to take your lead generation on LinkedIn to the next level? Contact us today and let Sales Design be your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving LinkedIn landscape in 2025!
